Highly competitive, the mini excavator segment offers a great deal of choice for customers. The array of manufacturers offering machines is enormous and the range of models on the market even more diverse. With the rental segment forming a key market for mini excavators, these machines are sold in very large numbers indeed.
The compact machine segment has, however, been one of the better sectors of the equipment market, as
With tough regulations on emissions in place in Europe and North America, as well as a diverse array of competing manufacturers, the range of machines on offer continues to grow. And this year has seen several important new model launches from major players in the segment.
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In standard configuration for Europe, the machine is fitted with a cab, rubber tracks and a long blade and weighs in at 1.894tonnes, allowing it to be towed on trailers with a 2tonne payload limit. The long arm gives better digging depth, maximum dump height and maximum reach at ground level than some other machines in its class, at 2.565m, 2.693m and 4.214m, respectively.
Versatility is further increased by the ability to use a wide range of attachments while the operation of the sophisticated hydraulic system is optimised by boom and arm cushioning to reduce end-of-travel jerking motions. A high lifting capacity is claimed, in addition to the high dump height. The machine can also be fitted with an optional object handling system that comprises a safety valve for the boom and arm, a hooking device and an overload warning package.
Because the machine has retractable undercarriage, it can be moved through narrow spaces and doorways while allowing stability when working over the wide. Frontal stability is further improved when using the dozer blade.
The cab has narrow pillars for visibility, as well as a wide doorway while the control array is said to be ergonomic and easy to use with a display providing full operating parameters. Durable and easy to service, the machine is said to offer a good return on investment for rental firms.
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The firm has also upgraded its existing R25Z mini excavator with the installation of a Kubota diesel. The new R25Z-9AK model is said to have low noise and exhaust emissions, as well as being economical, productive and powerful for its size. Competing in the 2.5tonne class, the machine also shares the same ease of maintenance and precise and responsive hydraulic control as its siblings.
Kobelco is keen to develop its presence in the European equipment market and is introducing seven mini excavators, which have operating weights of up to 3tonnes. Both short-radius mini excavators and conventional mini excavators are being introduced. The zero tailswing SK10SR-3, SK17SR-5 and SK25SR-6 models are all designed for use in jobsites with space limitations and compete in the 1tonne, 1.7tonne and 2.5tonne market segments. Meanwhile, the conventional machines with the counterweights at the rear, the SK16, SK18, SK22 and SK26, are said to offer exceptional stability and reach. These four models compete in the 1.6, 1.8, 2.2 and 2.6tonne weight classes and have higher lifting capacities due to the greater distance between load and rear counterweight. Key features include high digging and lifting capacities according to the firm, with the conventional 1.7tonne and 2.7tonne models said to offer particularly high performance in this respect.
Because the 10SR-3 and 17SR-5 zero tailswing models are designed for work in compact spaces, these machines also have been developed with retractable crawlers. This allows the machines to be moved through narrow doorways and into small working areas, while allowing better stability on uneven terrain when the tracks are extended. The system can be operated from the cab. Another new feature for the 10SR-3 and 17SR-5 is the revised dozer blade design, which now features a cutting edge, while the machines have wide opening engine covers for ease of maintenance.
Chinese firm
The company’s new SWE25 UE is a zero tailswing machine aimed at the 2.5tonne market segment, with power from a 14kW
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