BAC Extreme High Tip Bucket on Volvo L150H Moving Aggregates
High Tip Bucket Technical Specification
Suitable for all materials : free flowing and non free flowing
Capacity 5.5m³
Vertical Rams: Positioned perpendicular to the bucket frame. This orientation offers greater structural strength for handling heavy or dense materials.
Suitable for Dense High Abrasive Materials
Hardox Used on High impact / Wear Areas
Designed to Maximise Fill Factor
Built to Operate in Tough & Harsh Environments
Roll Back for Clean Discharge
Brass bushes
Thicker bolt on edges
Single Point greasing system
High tip bucket at full reach
Extreme Buckets perfect for Construction applications
General Operating Factors for Handling Aggregates with a High Tip Bucket
When moving aggregates such as dry sand, wet sand, gravel, crushed stone, and larger rocks using a high tip bucket—especially on a Volvo L150H—there are several critical operating factors and machine-specific considerations that should be taken into account to ensure safety, efficiency, and equipment longevity.
1: Material Density and Moisture Content
- Dry Sand: Flows freely and is relatively light. It can cause dust issues, which may affect visibility and air filters.
- Wet Sand: Heavier and more cohesive, which increases bucket load weight and may lead to overloading.
- Gravel and Crushed Stone: Denser than sand, potentially abrasive. May cause quicker wear on cutting edges and bucket surfaces.
- Large Rocks or Aggregates: Irregular shapes and high impact forces during loading and dumping. May cause bucket or linkage damage if handled improperly.
2: Bucket Fill Factor
- Achieving optimal fill levels without overloading is key. Overfilling can stress the hydraulic system and decrease cycle times.
3: Centre of Gravity
- The extended dump height shifts the centre of gravity forward and upward. Operators must account for increased tipping risk, especially on uneven ground or during high-speed manoeuvres.
4: Dumping Height and Clearance
- Ensure adequate overhead clearance during dumping operations, particularly when working around hoppers, trucks, or silos.
5: Ground Conditions
- Wet or uneven ground increases the risk of tyre slip or machine instability, particularly when lifting a full bucket to full height.
6: Cycle Efficiency
- Efficient cycles depend on quick loading, secure transportation, and fast, clean dumping. Minimise carryback by ensuring materials do not stick to the bucket.
7: Visibility
- The high tip bucket can obstruct forward visibility when raised. Use cameras or assistive technologies if available, and maintain clear line of sight when reversing.
8: Operator Skill
- Precise control of lift and dump functions is required to avoid overloading structures or equipment. Operator training is vital to effective use.
Volvo L150H Specific Considerations
The Volvo L150H is a mid-to-large wheel loader known for high productivity, fuel efficiency, and advanced features. When using a high tip bucket on this model, consider the following:
Hydraulic Performance: The L150H is equipped with load-sensing hydraulics. Operators should ensure the hydraulic flow and pressure are adjusted appropriately to match the increased demands of the high tip bucket attachment.
Attachment Compatibility: Ensure the high tip bucket is approved and properly matched to the L150H’s linkage system. Incompatible attachments can affect breakout force and stability.
Payload Management: Use Volvo’s On-Board Weighing System – Overloaded buckets reduce fuel efficiency and increase wear.
Stability and Counterbalance: With the bucket raised, the L150H’s stability ( as is any Wheel Loaders ) is reduced. Ensure the machine’s counterweights are sufficient to maintain balance, especially with dense materials like wet aggregates or stone.
Tyre and Drivetrain Wear: Frequent high-load lifting and carrying with aggregates increases strain on tyres and the drivetrain. Routine inspections and maintenance are essential.
Service and Access: The L150H is designed with ground-level service access, but it’s important to inspect the high tip bucket linkage, hydraulics, and wear plates frequently due to increased mechanical stress.
High Tip Bucket – Best Practice Recommendations
- Conduct a risk assessment of the worksite before operating with a high tip bucket.
- Always inspect the attachment points and hydraulic hoses before use.
- Avoid rapid movements or abrupt stops when the bucket is raised.
- Never travel long distances with the bucket raised to maximum height.
