HITACHI Construction Machinery (Europe) (HCME) launched a new Zaxis-7 model with clamshell telescopic arm at the recent bauma exhibition.
The ZX350LC-7 is available with 30m reach and is described as ‘ideal’ for removing soil from below ground. Assembled at HCME’s factory in Amsterdam, the machine has been designed to meet the needs of European customers.
The Stage-V compliant model’s arm’s ‘high-speed’ extension and retraction capacity and ‘strong’ pull-up force mean it requires less swing room than a long-reach excavator, making it suitable for compact environments, Hitachi explained.
For added versatility, the ZX350LC-7 30m CTA is equipped with rotation piping for use with swivel clamshell buckets.
The machine is said to deliver up to 10% less fuel consumption than the previous model. This is achieved with the help of Hitachi’s TRIAS III hydraulic system. Fuel efficiency can be further controlled by using the new ECO gauge.
The cab boasts 20% less vibration than the previous generation. New features include the synchronised motion of the seat and console and the adjustable console height.
The cab of the ZX350LC-7 CTA is positioned 960mm further forward than on a standard model. It can also slide a further 1,300mm and has an enlarged floor window to provide operators with a better view of the digging area below. Optional LED working lights are located at the front of the sliding cab to illuminate the area below ground.
“We were proud to present the ZX350LC-7 excavator with clamshell telescopic arm to our customers at bauma this year,” said Burkhard Janssen, product manager special applications and new technologies at Hitachi Construction Machinery (Europe) NV. “This latest model shares many of the advantages of our Zaxis-7 medium excavator range, putting owners and operators in control, so they can feel assured of their machine’s performance, and supported by the technological expertise and services that Hitachi provides.”
Hitachi also launched a new model in its super long front excavator range. The ZX130LCN-7 HE13 with 13m reach has a longer boom and arm than the standard ZX130-7 model. It is especially envisioned for light excavation work, as well as dredging rivers and lakes, bank maintenance, and slope-finishing tasks. Due to the proportions of the boom and arm, Hitachi revealed the 13-tonne model can also be used for loading, as trucks can be positioned close to the machine.
This model is also assembled at HCME’s factory in Amsterdam to meet the needs of European customers.
Hitachi explained the fuel economy of the ZX130LCN-7 means it delivers up to 9% less fuel consumption than the previous model. This is achieved with the help of the HIOS V hydraulic system.
Life-cycle costs are said to be reduced with the Stage V-compliant engine, which does not require an SCR system. This eliminates the need for urea, filter replacements and associated maintenance. The ECO gauge also allows operators to control fuel efficiency.
The cab has 16% less vibration than the previous generation and new features including the synchronised motion of the seat and console and adjustable console height with three positions to choose from. Hitachi added that the ‘improved’ pedal layout and ‘ample’ head clearance help to make this the most spacious Hitachi cab yet.
An aerial angle camera system provides a 270-degree bird’s-eye view and users can choose from six image options to see the machine’s immediate environment. LED work lights and a windscreen wiper with increased sweeping area further improve visibility.
Burkhard Janssen said, “Within its standard portfolio, Hitachi offers the widest super long front product range in the industry, from eight to 50 tonnes, and from 10 to 22m reach. This latest model shares many of the advantages of our Zaxis-7 medium excavator range, offering an enhanced experience in the cab for operators, and improved fuel efficiency to help owners improve their profits. It is also provided with life-cycle support from Hitachi, ensuring ultimate peace of mind.”
