New levels of efficiency and sophistication are being seen in the latest earthmoving machines coming to market - Mike Woof writes
The earthmoving equipment segment accounts for one of the largest parts of the total market for construction machines. All around the world excavators and articulated dumptrucks (ADTs) can be seen operating on construction sites. With a massive array of manufacturers offering these machines, it is no surprise that the segment is hotly contested. In developed markets firms are
Fuel efficiency has been improved for the new generation Case excavators
New levels of efficiency and sophistication are being seen in the latest earthmoving machines coming to market - Mike Woof writes
The earthmoving equipment segment accounts for one of the largest parts of the total market for construction machines. All around the world excavators and articulated dumptrucks (ADTs) can be seen operating on construction sites. With a massive array of manufacturers offering these machines, it is no surprise that the segment is hotly contested. In developed markets firms are ensuring that the new models meet the latest emissions targets.
For the emissions regulated markets, the introduction of Tier 4 Final/Stage IV compliant models has been a major target for key suppliers.176 CASE Construction Equipment is extending its new generation D Series crawler excavator offering in the earthmoving sector with the CX160D and CX180D.
These two medium-range machines, like the other machines in the new D Series, have Case’s fuel-efficient Tier 4 Final (Euro IV) maintenance-free technology with no DPF. They offer the high productivity, comfort, safety levels and low running costs for which the previously launched D Series models are known.
The new D Series crawler excavators share the Case Intelligent Hydraulic System of the previous new generation models. The improved D Series systems have high performance hydraulics, said to boost controllability and smooth operation. The faster cycle times achieved with the more efficient hydraulics also improve profitability.
The new models deliver faster cycle times due to new, electronically controlled hydraulic pumps, resulting in cycle times up to 12% faster than that of the previous generation.
The high productivity is further boosted by larger capacity fuel and AdBlue tanks combined with the improved fuel efficiency.
From695 Doosan comes the new LC-5 range of machines, which meet the latest Stage IV emissions regulations. The DX140LC-5 model is said to offer greatly improved performance over the outgoing LC-3 Stage IIIB model.
The improved performance of the DX140LC-5 includes a 5% gain in engine power and 4% greater torque. In addition, traction has been boosted with an increase in drawbar pull of about 18% and front lifting capacity has been increased on average by 10%, with side capacities 12.5% higher. At the same time, fuel consumption has been reduced by 3%.
Power for the machines comes from the latest299 Perkins 1204F engine, which has a better power density than previous diesels with its capacity, while also offering good fuel economy. The new engine features an electronically controlled, high-pressure common-rail fuel system (2000bar), as well as an electric fan clutch, which optimises cooling depending on coolant, hydraulic oil, charged air temperatures and target engine speeds.
233 Hitachi says that its new ZX250LC-6, ZX300LC-6 and ZX350LC-6 excavators all offer increased performance. At the same time, the machines also meet the latest Tier 4 Final/Stage IV exhaust emissions requirements for off highway equipment. Productivity has been increased by up to 14% while fuel consumption has been reduced. These machines are aimed at the classes for 25, 30 and 35tonne excavators respectively. The firm claims that the excavators offer the highest outputs in their respective classes as well as advanced hydraulics for faster cycling and more precise control. Cabs have been improved with more comfortable seating and better all-round view, as well as lower noise levels at the operator’s ear. Safety features are upgraded also.
From236 Hyundai comes the new HX235 LCR short tail crawler excavator, a stage IV generation machine, which can load trucks up to 5% faster than the earlier 9A-Series model. To achieve efficient grading, the HX series can apply boom floating control using arm-in and arm-out operation only, allowing stable operation even in high-load work.
The new HX235 LCR shares many innovative features with the firm’s other new excavators, which include the HX145 short tail crawler excavator. These include new safety features such as Hyundai’s exclusive AAVM - Advanced Around View Monitoring - system for 360° virtual operating view which is displayed on the 20cm cluster-monitor. An Intelligent Moving Object Detection system that senses and warns the operator when objects come within working distance of the machine.
The HX range also comes with newly designed cabins incorporating a larger front screen. The driver's door is easier to open from the inside with an additional handrail. The interior of the HX and HW cab offers 13% more space for the operator (compared to 9A-series). The machines are also more comfortable to operate due to new cab shock mounts with dual shock absorption for reduced vibration and noise.
The Hyundai machines benefit from the latest version of the Hi-Mate system. This uses satellite communications to provide capabilities such as remote diagnostics and geofencing, as well as alerts in the event of theft.
Wear life features on the HX and HW Series include reinforced longer-life pins and bushings coupled with wear-resistant polymer shims. Serviceability enhancements include ground-level access to the fuel filter and convenient exterior access to the cab air filter.
2200 Kobelco’s new 35tonne SK350NLC-10 medium excavator is said to offer higher performance combined with lower fuel consumption and emissions. The machine is available with bucket capacities of 1.2-1.6m3 and is the latest addition to the Japanese manufacturer’s Generation 10 line-up. The firm says that the 350 has increased power and greater fuel economy compared with Generation 9 models.
Other Gen 10 models are the SK210LC-10/SK210NLC-10 and the SK260LC-10/SK260NLC-10. The Generation 10 models have improved shovel load coupled with dynamic digging force helps contribute to a 7% greater digging volume when compared to previous models in class. All Generation 10 machines are powered by7228 Hino engines, which incorporate DOC (Diesel Oxidation Catalyst) and the combination of DPF (Diesel Particulate Filter) and SCR – Selective Catalyst Reduction. These systems reduce the amount of DEF/AdBlue fluid used in the post-exhaust gas system.
Generation 10 models have revised structural sections, reinforcement points and pin bosses and the attachment point has been reinforced to handle a higher work volume with greater power. Kobelco’s Arm Interflow System (AIS) is a new hydraulic regenerative system that enables the boom to redistribute hydraulic fluid to the shovel arm during operation. This reduces the need of an external pump and results in less engine and hydraulic workload, boosting cost efficiency.
Other features include a new compact and easily replaceable canister-type hydraulic oil return filter and a new specification air cleaner inner element, while the fuel tank has been relocated to the left side. In terms of safety, the operator can now access machine diagnostics via the multi-display cabin monitor assist, and the washer tank has been relocated inside the cabin, ensuring work continuity.
A new development from2300 Komatsu comes in the shape of its 36tonne class hybrid excavator. The new model retains technology from its proven 21tonne class hybrid excavator but offers greater productivity and performance. As with the existing HB215 hybrid machine from Komatsu, the new machine offers considerable savings in fuel consumption. Although the hybrid models are more expensive than standard machines, the firm says that the fuel savings allow a steady payback time for customers. Exhaust emissions and operating noise are also said to be very low for this new machine.
269 LiuGong is introducing new Tier 4 Final/Stage IV compliant versions of its 925E and 933E excavators during 2016. These are being built in its factory in Poland and benefit from patented turbocharging technology developed by 196 Cummins, optimising power and minimising fuel consumption. This system is said to vary varies airflow to match engine and load demand. The low speed, high output torque engines are specially designed for the E-series excavators, while the machines also feature innovative negative flow hydraulics. The E-series also makes use of the Advanced IPC (Intelligent Power Control) system – LiuGong’s own new-generation, computer-aided power controls. This integrates the mechanical, electrical and hydraulic systems, delivering high efficiency and lowering fuel consumption.
The E-series machines are said to offer precise control and have six selectable working modes: power; economy; fine working; lifting; breaking; attachment. These further optimise performance and fuel consumption.
The earthmoving equipment segment accounts for one of the largest parts of the total market for construction machines. All around the world excavators and articulated dumptrucks (ADTs) can be seen operating on construction sites. With a massive array of manufacturers offering these machines, it is no surprise that the segment is hotly contested. In developed markets firms are ensuring that the new models meet the latest emissions targets.
Excavator advances
The crawler excavator market represents the single largest segment of the off-highway construction machine sector and it is understandable why it is also one of the most competitive areas as a result. There are perhaps more manufacturers of crawler excavators than any other type of construction machines. Firms from China, Europe, Japan, South Korea and the US all supply models globally for both emissions regulated and non-regulated markets. It is worth noting however that Chinese manufacturers generally supply excavators to non-regulated markets, with only a comparatively small number of firms competing in the regulated markets of Europe and the US.For the emissions regulated markets, the introduction of Tier 4 Final/Stage IV compliant models has been a major target for key suppliers.
These two medium-range machines, like the other machines in the new D Series, have Case’s fuel-efficient Tier 4 Final (Euro IV) maintenance-free technology with no DPF. They offer the high productivity, comfort, safety levels and low running costs for which the previously launched D Series models are known.
The new D Series crawler excavators share the Case Intelligent Hydraulic System of the previous new generation models. The improved D Series systems have high performance hydraulics, said to boost controllability and smooth operation. The faster cycle times achieved with the more efficient hydraulics also improve profitability.
The new models deliver faster cycle times due to new, electronically controlled hydraulic pumps, resulting in cycle times up to 12% faster than that of the previous generation.
The high productivity is further boosted by larger capacity fuel and AdBlue tanks combined with the improved fuel efficiency.
From
The improved performance of the DX140LC-5 includes a 5% gain in engine power and 4% greater torque. In addition, traction has been boosted with an increase in drawbar pull of about 18% and front lifting capacity has been increased on average by 10%, with side capacities 12.5% higher. At the same time, fuel consumption has been reduced by 3%.
Power for the machines comes from the latest
From
The new HX235 LCR shares many innovative features with the firm’s other new excavators, which include the HX145 short tail crawler excavator. These include new safety features such as Hyundai’s exclusive AAVM - Advanced Around View Monitoring - system for 360° virtual operating view which is displayed on the 20cm cluster-monitor. An Intelligent Moving Object Detection system that senses and warns the operator when objects come within working distance of the machine.
The HX range also comes with newly designed cabins incorporating a larger front screen. The driver's door is easier to open from the inside with an additional handrail. The interior of the HX and HW cab offers 13% more space for the operator (compared to 9A-series). The machines are also more comfortable to operate due to new cab shock mounts with dual shock absorption for reduced vibration and noise.
The Hyundai machines benefit from the latest version of the Hi-Mate system. This uses satellite communications to provide capabilities such as remote diagnostics and geofencing, as well as alerts in the event of theft.
Wear life features on the HX and HW Series include reinforced longer-life pins and bushings coupled with wear-resistant polymer shims. Serviceability enhancements include ground-level access to the fuel filter and convenient exterior access to the cab air filter.
Other Gen 10 models are the SK210LC-10/SK210NLC-10 and the SK260LC-10/SK260NLC-10. The Generation 10 models have improved shovel load coupled with dynamic digging force helps contribute to a 7% greater digging volume when compared to previous models in class. All Generation 10 machines are powered by
Generation 10 models have revised structural sections, reinforcement points and pin bosses and the attachment point has been reinforced to handle a higher work volume with greater power. Kobelco’s Arm Interflow System (AIS) is a new hydraulic regenerative system that enables the boom to redistribute hydraulic fluid to the shovel arm during operation. This reduces the need of an external pump and results in less engine and hydraulic workload, boosting cost efficiency.
Other features include a new compact and easily replaceable canister-type hydraulic oil return filter and a new specification air cleaner inner element, while the fuel tank has been relocated to the left side. In terms of safety, the operator can now access machine diagnostics via the multi-display cabin monitor assist, and the washer tank has been relocated inside the cabin, ensuring work continuity.
A new development from
The E-series machines are said to offer precise control and have six selectable working modes: power; economy; fine working; lifting; breaking; attachment. These further optimise performance and fuel consumption.
