Volvo targets medium- to heavy-duty jobs with new soil compactor

Volvo Construction Equipment is broadening its compaction range in North America with a new model targeting medium- to heavy-duty compaction jobs. The new SD125 soil compactor is designed to provide exceptional results with low operating and ownership costs, making it a fit for both rental operations and highway contractors.

The 12-ton machine is the largest model in the Volvo soil compaction portfolio with an 84-inch smooth-drum and operating weight of 26,565 pounds (12,050 kilograms). Its specs are similar to the existing SD115 but with a 0.2-inch (5 millimetre) thicker drum shell and a heavier outer eccentric weight. This results in an additional 935 pounds (424 kilograms) of mass on the drum, increasing the static load and eccentric force for a different amplitude profile.

"The SD125 is a direct response to dealers and customers who have asked for a machine that combines the quality and performance of the SD115 with the heavier weight of a 12-ton machine," says Justin Zupanc, compaction product manager. "We take feedback seriously, and I think this model shows that."

Excellent performance

As terrain and material depths change, adjusting dynamic drum forces can be done by flipping a switch on the new SD125. Another switch adjusts the two drum frequencies to compensate for changing conditions, and a five-frequency feature is available as an option to further boost versatility and performance.

The center joint provides +/-35 degrees of articulation and +/-12 degrees of drum oscillation for stable yet flexible performance and greater operator comfort over rough terrain. Because the drum is in constant contact with the ground, compaction is smooth and uniform.

The additional static weight on the drum frame enhances stability and performance with the ability to negotiate 35 percent slopes for better gradeability. The angled frame allows higher clearance in the approach to steep slopes and while loading, eliminating the possibility of damaging the surface or the machine. The frame and articulation joint are covered by the Volvo Lifetime Frame and Structure Warranty.

A heavy-duty axle is integrated into the drivetrain for an efficient rear wheel drive system. The no-spin differential increases traction, eliminates tire slippage, and improves gradeability, performance and productivity. A high-traction variant is available for demanding applications where additional torque is needed to tackle extreme slopes or thick lifts of loose material.

All three levels of compact assist software are available on the in-cab tablet (the Volvo Co-Pilot) allowing users to determine the visibility, mapping, and reporting features that are most important to them.

A more sustainable design

The SD125 features a powerful Tier 4F four-cylinder Volvo engine with 147.5 hp (110 kW). Active DPF regeneration eliminates material build-up, further reducing emissions. 

Additional features include:

• A hydraulically operated engine cooling fan that runs only when needed, reducing fuel consumption.
• Lower noise levels for operator comfort.
• Optional fan reverse for cleaning out the coolers.
• Volvo long-life coolant to protect the machine for up to 6,000 hours.
• Remote hydraulic test ports that can be configured to enable quick and easy hydraulic checkpoints without having to open the system.

As a part of Volvo's commitment to safety, the emergency stop system shuts down the engine, applies the brakes and stops the machine's movement if the operator rises from the seat for more than five seconds during operation.

The SD125 is designed and built at the Volvo CE North American headquarters in Shippensburg, Pennsylvania, along with all Volvo asphalt and soil compactors. This year marks 50 years of compaction engineering and manufacturing at the site. The SD125 will be available for order in North America during the first half of 2025.