Bell rings in low ground pressure solutions

By MEq March 18, 2020 10:10

Offering the largest Articulated Dump Truck (ADT) range on the global market, Bell Equipment will debut the 20-ton Bell B20E Low Ground Pressure (LGP) truck and the all-new Tracked Carrier (TC) at Conexpo, Las Vegas, presenting premium solutions for soft underfoot conditions.

Already popular and proven in the United Kingdom and growing in mainland Europe, the B20E LGP features a powerful engine and drivetrain components and the complete Bell package of proven machine control and assistance systems for advanced levels of comfort, safety and productivity. The emission-compliant Mercedes-Benz 4-cylinder diesel engine provides 228HP (170 kW), enabling the B20E LGP (with a rated payload : 39,683lbs (18,0t); gross: 76,044lbs (34,5t)) to perform with a similar power-to-weight ratio to the larger Bell B30E. Power is transferred through a six-speed Allison automatic transmission with optional integrated retarder, ensuring smooth gear changes and actively contributing to outstanding fuel efficiency.

To ensure ultimate off-road capability, the B20E LGP’s unique selling point, the 6×6-drivetrain, is equipped with the latest Bell automatic traction control technologies. Interaxle differential lock (IDL) and limited slip differentials on all axles provide full traction on deep wet ground or soft and sandy areas while fully sealed wet brakes on the front and middle axles comply with extreme conditions and reduce maintenance to a minimum.

Superior flotation, another crucial off-road requirement, is guaranteed by low profile, extra wide 800/45 R30.5 tires that provide significantly low ground pressures under full load. The B20E LGP is the only ADT capable of operating in similar applications to tracked machines, with the added benefit of longer hauls. With its low ground pressure, the Bell B20E LGP is suitable for site stripping in difficult sandy or marshy areas. The truck also operates almost weather independent, ensuring all-year utilization with a great return on investment.

Tracked Carriers
Geared for the short-haul and to provide a niche solution to the pipelaying industry, Bell Equipment undertook extensive market research and a stringent design process to develop the TC7A and TC11A Tracked Carriers. Prototype units are currently undergoing an intensive test program and the TC7A has been displayed at Conexpo. According to Bell Equipment Product Marketing Manager, Brad Castle, the units are powered by a 6,7 liter Cummins engine with Rexroth hydraulics and has the option of a dump bed or a flatbed.

Unlike most of the competition, both models have a standard ROPS and FOPS certified cab. The Bell TCs feature a unique roller system that provides equal weight distribution when traversing obstacles. “The result is a much smoother ride than the tracked machines that are currently available in the market,” explains Castle.

“In keeping with our philosophy of ‘strong reliable machines’ our Tracked Carrier is made from thicker gauge steel, has rubbers in the bogie pivots for reduced greasing requirements and improved wear and a ground-level service hatch and removable panels for ease of maintenance,” he adds. “Our design engineers have listened to the market and designed accordingly, thinking of everything including cab accessibility and operator comfort. We look forward to customer feedback at the show.”