Bomag’s fifth generation Light Tandem Rollers celebrated their premiere as a prototype at Bauma 2010 and now Bell Equipment has introduced the range to the Southern African market, which includes six models with operating weights of 1,5 tonnes to 1,7 tonnes.
The fifth generation of Light Tandem Rollers is fitted with the more powerful Kubota D902 engine, which generates 15,1kW at 3 000rpm compared with the Kubota D722 engine fitted to the second generation range, which generates 12,4kW at 3 000rpm. The maximum travel speed has been increased from 8km/h to 10km/h while the diesel tank has also been increased from 23l to 30l.
Bell Equipment’s Product Marketing Manager: Bomag, Sathie Chetty said: “Bomag has a similar philosophy to Bell when it designs new product in that the needs of customers are taken onboard. Users and hirers were involved at an early stage in the development process resulting in a series that has been created by customers for customers, offering everything today’s customers want.”
In spite of their compact dimensions, the new rollers boast a larger operator’s platform that is more ergonomic in design providing better access. A new “Smart Drive” steering wheel gives a clear view of the instrument panel including the long-lasting rotary switches. The position of the battery has been moved from in between the legs on the operator’s seat while the water pump has moved from behind the cover in the frame. Both are now conveniently housed in the storage space underneath the foot place, which allows for easy accessibility without impairing the sitting position.
“The central electrics, located in the steering column, are highly practical, well thought out and easily accessible. Extensive diagnostics are part of the package as well as a power board,” said Chetty.
The 5 series Light Tandem Rollers have a deep-set engine bonnet made from modern impact resistant composite material (PDCPD). This, together with a set-back frame, guarantees excellent visibility to the front and the bottom rim of the drum.
New features on the fifth generation of Bomag Light Tandem Rollers includes a multi-function travel lever with travel operation, in forwards and reverse, being extremely smooth because of a well matched travel pump with servo control. All operating controls are clearly arranged with durable rotary switches on the dashboard. It also contains modern circular instrumentation with warning signals, an operating hour counter, as well as a diesel fuel level display.
Alongside the traditional models BW 80 AD-5, BW 90 AD-5 and BW 100 ADM-5, Bomag offers the BW100 ACM-5 combination roller with a 100cm wide drum and two clear-sided rollers with drum widths of either 90 or 100cm. These two units, models BW 90 SC-5 and BW 100 SC-5 have drums offset by 60mm giving working widths of 96 and 106cm. The drums are suspended or connected to the frame on one side only, thereby allowing the operator to carry out compaction work on the left and right sides, close up to a wall or kerb and then steer away afterwards with no damage. This means that additional compaction work, such as with vibratory plates, is not required.
The 5 series uses tried and tested technologies such as the exciter system and the efficient high capacity hydraulic system. With the economic Kubota engine and ECO mode, which is ideal for smaller compaction jobs, fuel consumption is also kept to the minimum.The rollers feature individual vibration switches as standard, as well as Intelligent Vibration Control (IVC), which automatically prevents vibration when stationary or at excessive speeds, to guarantee consistent compaction quality.
Alongside compaction performance, the sprinkler system is a key component. A sophisticated membrane pump, a water-saving concept with triple filtering, wind-protection nozzles and automatic sprinkler control ensure that the drums receive sufficient water even in strong winds or when the roller is on an incline.
Tandem rollers are often commissioned directly on site. Generously proportioned and easy-access lashing rings and a practical single lifting point, plus integrated towing hook, are valued aids for site personnel and reduce unloading times.