DEVELON has added a new tunnelling excavator to its portfolio of special application machines.
The DX235RTF-7 is based on the manufacturer’s DX235LCR-7 reduced radius crawler excavator and is powered by a DL06V Stage V engine, providing 141 kW (189 HP) of power.
The model utilises the compact design and minimum swing radius of the DX235LCR-7, but the key part of the machine is the heavy duty tunnelling front, offering a new arm and boom design with kinematics and a tilting function.
Jan Breburda, special application product manager for Develon Europe, said, “The new DX235RTF-7 tunnelling machine is designed for superior performance in challenging underground environments. Complementing the safety and comfort of its operation, the advanced hydraulics and robust construction of the DX235RTF-7 ensure optimal power and durability, while its compact design allows for easy navigation in tight spaces.”
The machine has a total operating weight of 25,689 kg and offers a maximum reach of 9,260mm. The kinematics of the tunnelling front are designed to prioritise horizontal reach and precision over vertical movement. The kinematics are based around a boom tilting function, providing a 45°/45° tilt in two directions, the movement of which can be operated via a pedal in the cab.
The boom and arm configuration is designed for operation in narrow areas, with ranges of movement slightly limited compared to the standard front on the DX235LCR-7. The DX235RTF-7 is specifically suited to work in restricted environments, without using the swing movement in narrow areas. Develon explained this allows the machine to work in narrow tunnels with the ability to reach the tunnel face and walls, while maintaining a low profile to navigate tight spaces.
For work in confined spaces, the DX235RTF-7 features protective equipment to safeguard against falling debris or contact of the arm with the tunnel ceiling and walls. As a result, it has a level 2 FOG system combined with more heavy duty covers and hydraulic piping protection.
Compared to the standard DX235LCR-7 model, the DX235RTF-7 has six LED work lights, four on the front and two on the back, as well as AVM cameras as standard. Additional features include PERO rotating piping, centralised greasing points and a dozer blade as an option. The specifications also include a 6.4-tonne counterweight and 600mm-wide triple grouser track shoes.
