3D scanning confirms performance of Volvo Tooth System VTS 2

A real-world test by Volvo Construction Equipment, SMT Great Britain and Holcim shows that the VTS 2 tooth system improves energy efficiency, component lifetime and maintenance performance for excavators.  www.volvoce.com In demanding quarry environments, ground engaging tools play a critical role in machine productivity, fuel consumption and operating costs. Volvo Construction Equipment (Volvo CE) developed the second generation of its Volvo Tooth System (VTS 2) to increase operational efficiency while reducing environmental impact. To validate performance under real conditions, a comparative test was conducted at Holcim’s Hillhead quarry in the United Kingdom, in collaboration with dealer SMT Great Britain. Objectives: Energy efficiency, longer service life and simplified maintenance The main objective of the test was to measure real improvements in material penetration, fuel consumption, component lifespan and maintenance efficiency. The teams also aimed to precisely quantify wear and evaluate the influence of operator techniques using advanced measurement technologies. Methodology: Precise analysis using 3D laser scanning High-precision 3D laser scanning technology provided by Printing Portal enabled millimetre-accurate monitoring of wear. Weekly scans analyzed material loss, tooth performance and variations in operational usage. Each tooth system was tested for more than 240 operating hours on a Volvo EC480 excavator and directly compared with a leading competitor’s solution under identical conditions. Operational and environmental results The collected data highlighted several measurable benefits: Smoother material penetration, contributing to improved energy efficiency and estimated fuel savings of approximately £9,500 per machine per year. A weekly reduction in fuel consumption of 4%, corresponding to roughly a 15% reduction in CO₂ emissions. Tooth service life between 700 and 750 hours, significantly exceeding competitor estimates of 450–500 hours. Simplified maintenance thanks to a hammerless locking system, allowing tooth replacement in about 30 minutes compared with up to one hour using traditional systems. According to Anthony Allday, quarry manager at Holcim’s Hillhead site, the combination of faster replacement, improved safety and data demonstrating longer service life and reduced fuel consumption led to adoption even before the test program was completed. Technical innovation: Self-sharpening design and enhanced safety The VTS 2 builds on Volvo’s first-generation tooth system, designed to increase breakout force and machine uptime. The new version features a more robust self-sharpening design and a hammerless locking mechanism that eliminates traditional pin-and-hammer installation, improving maintenance safety. New approaches to performance evaluation The use of 3D scanning enabled objective, detailed data collection, opening new possibilities for evaluating critical machine components in construction and quarry operations. These insights can help operators optimise maintenance strategies and extend component service life. Conclusion Test results demonstrate that the Volvo Tooth System VTS 2 delivers tangible improvements in productivity, durability and emissions reduction. Beyond the product itself, the study highlights the potential of advanced measurement technologies and collaborative testing between manufacturers, dealers and operators to improve operational efficiency in earthmoving and quarry applications. www.volvoce.com Powered by Induportals Media Publishing