Electro-Hydraulics May Change the Future of Excavator Design
Hydraulics are the powerhouse behind an excavator, turning simple lever movements into powerful boom and bucket movements. Our new electro-hydraulic innovation, known as Independent Metering Valve Technology (IMVT), means Volvo […]
Hydraulics are the powerhouse behind an excavator, turning simple lever movements into powerful boom and bucket movements. Our new electro-hydraulic innovation, known as Independent Metering Valve Technology (IMVT), means Volvo excavator hydraulics are becoming even more intuitive, offering operators smoother control and more efficient work on construction and general excavation jobs. This innovation isn’t just about stronger machines, but smarter ones that handle tasks quicker and with greater precision.
IMVT marks a departure from the traditional mechanically coupled hydraulic systems and introduces intelligent electronic control with numerous variables. The results are up to 25 percent improved fuel efficiency and better operator control.
One key difference is the closed-center valve control system, which can stop or minimize hydraulic flow going through the main control valve (MCV) when there’s no demand for a hydraulic actuator. Other control systems have an open-center valve control system so hydraulic flow goes through the MVC no matter what. This is one of reasons why IMVT lowers fuel consumption and eliminates the need for an ECO mode.
Another difference is that IMVT senses and controls each side of the chamber of a cylinder without hydraulic spools and hydraulic pilot lines for more precise control.
IMVT also replaces traditional spools with poppet and electro-hydraulic valves in the MCV, reducing pressure losses and optimizing valve control based on load conditions. This leads to faster cycle times, improved regeneration and reduced flow loss.
And by eliminating hydraulic pilot lines, IMVT significantly reduces the risk of leaks and damage. The absence of spools and pilot lines simplifies maintenance and service, while integrated sensors enhance diagnostics through a dedicated service tool.
How IMVT Enhances Excavator Performance
Operators will see better performance particularly in general excavation and truck-loading scenarios where maximum productivity is crucial. IMVT features include:
Creep mode: Ideal for utility and piping applications, creep mode separates the two main hydraulic pumps, ensuring a constant traveling speed regardless of other hydraulic actuator activations.
Motion priority functions: Operators can customize settings for boom-up, swing and other functions, optimizing hydraulic priority based on the task and reducing loading cycle times, especially in close proximity to trucks.
Reduced bouncing: IMVT addresses operator fatigue caused by bouncing because it enhances the precision of the excavator’s movements, which is crucial when handling delicate or heavy loads in the bucket.
Improved Comfort Drive Control (CDC): CDC transforms the operator experience by enabling precise track control using only an index finger on roller proportional switches. This reduces fatigue and increases efficiency — especially in challenging terrain.
Auto warmup: In cold working environments, IMVT’s auto warmup feature efficiently warms up the hydraulic circuit without external heaters, getting the excavator ready fast without burdening the hydraulic system.
Customizable control functions: IMVT offers a range of customizable functions, including boom up – swing priority; boom up – travel priority; and boom down speed control. These features allow operators to tailor the excavator’s performance to specific tasks, enhancing both efficiency and operator satisfaction.
Volvo Excavators with IMVT
IMVT is currently available on Volvo EC550 and EC530 excavators. Largely thanks to IMVT, these 50-ton machines offer digging and lifting forces typically found in the 60-ton range.
IMVT was initially introduced on these models due to consistent demand for 50-ton excavators, but there is potential for expansion to other models. A case study showed that an EC550 excavator equipped with a larger bucket burned less fuel than an EC480, achieving more production with less fuel consumption. Additional studies proved that IMVT provides a notable increase in engine power, digging force, swing torque and tractive force, boosting productivity by up to 20 percent and improving fuel efficiency by 25 percent.
The Future of Excavator Hydraulics
The introduction of the electro-hydraulic system with Independent Metering Valve Technology represents a significant advancement in excavator technology. By combining intelligent electronic control, independent cylinder control and customizable functions, IMVT is setting a new standard for controllability, efficiency and versatility in heavy equipment.
Excavators equipped with IMVT not only outperform traditional hydraulic systems but also contribute to lower fuel consumption, enhanced operator comfort and easier maintenance. If you’re searching for a new excavator in the 50-ton range, reach out to a nearby Volvo dealer and ask them about machines equipped with this ground-breaking technology.
By Sejong Ko
Categories: Construction Equipment
