Hitachi ZAXIS-7 ultrashort tail-swing excavators allow operators to efficiently complete work in congested urban environments without sacrificing performance. The reduced tail swing eases job site maneuverability and increases application versatility.
“As the number of urban projects continues to increase, there is clear demand among operators for larger reduced-tail-swing excavators. These excavators can work in congested areas while keeping lanes open on road projects,” said Patrick Baker, product manager, medium and large excavators, Hitachi Construction Machinery Americas Inc.
Hitachi Construction Machinery Americas Inc. offers several ZAXIS-7 ultrashort tail-swing excavator models tailored to meet this demand. The Hitachi ZX135US-7 excavator weighs in at 31,973 pounds (14,500 kg), has a 19-foot, 7-inch (5.98-m) maximum dig depth and a bucket breakout force of 23,380 pounds (104 kN). The 56,669-pound (25,700-kg) Hitachi ZX245USLC-7 excavator features a maximum dig depth of 21 feet, 8 inches (6.61 m) and a bucket breakout force of 35,520 pounds (158 kN). The ZX345USLC-7 excavator has a 76,955-pound. (34,900-kg) operating weight, a maximum dig depth of 24 feet, 10 inches (7.57 m) and a bucket breakout force of 45,411 pounds (202 kN).
Hydraulic system efficiency on the ZAXIS-7 excavators allows optimized performance while reducing fuel consumption. Each model uses a solution that best matches its size and application. For instance, the ZX135US-7 includes HIOS IV technology that ensures a responsive boom, arm and bucket. The ZX245USLC-7 uses next-generation TRIAS III technology that provides quick response to all control inputs while minimizing losses in the system. The ZX345USLC-7 relies on proven TRIAS II technology that ensures efficient use of available power.
The ZX245USLC-7 features a new arm roll-in metering control valve that allows hydraulic pump power to be reduced when the arm is operated with a low load. When digging, the roll-in metering control valve reduces hydraulic pressure loss to the tank. This decreases the pump power needed for digging operations, improving fuel efficiency.
The ZX245USLC-7 and ZX345USLC-7 allow attachment/arm priority to be adjusted on the monitor to match the attachment or the operator’s preference. When the attachment and arm are operated at the same time, the operator can adjust whether the speed of the attachment or the arm should be prioritized. The operator can also adjust boom raise priority using the monitor. This can tailor the machine for everything from truck loading to heavy digging.
Proven Isuzu engines power all three models, producing 100 net horsepower (74.9 kW) for the ZX135US-7, 164 net horsepower (122 kW) for the ZX245USLC-7 and 249 net horsepower (186 kW) for the ZX345USLC-7. Economy, power and high-performance modes best match available power to the working conditions while an auto idle system with auto shut-down control prevents wasted fuel.
Enhanced operator environment reduces fatigue
A first-class cab ensures operator comfort and reduces fatigue. It starts with a larger cab with increased head clearance. A one-touch adjustable air suspension seat is synchronized to move with the console. Noise has been minimized by increasing the thickness of the rear glass. Improved airtightness of the cab keeps the dust out, even when the air conditioner is started.
Cab mounts reduce vibration when traveling. An 8-inch (20.32-cm) anti-glare LCD monitor provides visibility, even in bright surroundings. It also controls the Bluetooth radio. The operator can listen to music and make a hands-free call from the cab. Long-lasting LED lights provide visibility in challenging conditions.
Low-effort pilot controls reduce operator strain. For convenience, switches have been collectively installed on the right side with easy access to those frequently used.
Designing cabs with panoramic visibility helps create a safe and comfortable working environment. Hitachi Construction Machinery Americas Inc. takes this a step further with its Aerial Angle peripheral vision camera system. It provides a wide 270-degree bird’s-eye view of the machine’s immediate environment. The operator can select a view on the monitor quickly and easily that best suits the situation. A rear view camera allows the operator to see the area right below the counterweight.
Designed for durability
Hitachi Construction Machinery Americas Inc. excavators are renowned for durability. The ZAXIS-7 excavators feature enhancements on critical components such as the undercarriage and boom. On the undercarriage, the lower roller design helps prevent mud compaction, protecting oil seals. The upper and lower rollers also feature improved idler sealing.
The ZAXIS-7 excavators feature a strengthened boom end and foot. For durability, the bushings are installed in the brackets at the boom end and the boom foot.
Boost uptime
Tracking maintenance is simplified with the multifunctional monitor. It indicates preset maintenance intervals each time the key is turned on. Engine oil and coolant levels can be checked right from the operator’s seat.
Design enhancements help protect critical components from the environment. An inner element of the engine air filter protects the engine from dust ingress while cleaning the outer element. Even the air conditioner is protected with an internal filter with a seal that prevents dust from entering the air conditioner unit.
Using telematic tools to monitor machine health helps boost uptime. The ConSite full data toolkit, which remotely monitors operational status and alerts owners and operators to upcoming maintenance needs, is making a leap forward.
“ConSite now actively checks engine and hydraulic oil, along with other parameters, so operators can see a problem before its even a fault code. This increases customer uptime,” notes Baker.
ConSite OIL standard on the ZX245USLC-7 and ZX345USLC-7 and an option on the ZX135US-7. It monitors engine and hydraulic oil conditions to proactively catch issues before any fault codes are triggered in the machine. This helps drive uptime by catching oil degradation before damage to critical systems can occur. This allows operators to focus on the work that needs to be done.
Consite Air allows the excavator to be diagnosed remotely, as well as remote updates of the software. The servicing dealer can remotely diagnose issues that may arise, leading to increased uptime. A ConSite response team is on standby to rapidly resolves issues as they emerge.