New JCB mini excavators designed to reduce cost of ownership

A new line of JCB mini excavators has been designed to provide the expected productivity while lowering operating costs. “Really it’s all about the cost of ownership, and keeping that as low as we possibly can,” said Mick Sanders, product manager with JCB. The new mini excavators are the 48Z-I, 51R-I, 55Z-I and 57C-I. Weights range from 4792 kg to 5483 kg. In addition to low cost, the machines are designed to provide greater height and lift. Bucket and dipper tear-out have been improved as well.
April 12, 2016 Read time: 2 mins
Routine maintenance is required less often with the new JCB line of mini excavators

A new line of 255 JCB mini excavators has been designed to provide the expected productivity while lowering operating costs.

“Really it’s all about the cost of ownership, and keeping that as low as we possibly can,” said Mick Sanders, product manager with JCB.

The new mini excavators are the 48Z-I, 51R-I, 55Z-I and 57C-I. Weights range from 4792 kg to 5483 kg. In addition to low cost, the machines are designed to provide greater height and lift. Bucket and dipper tear-out have been improved as well.

Many new features have a direct impact on costs. For example, greasing that previously occurred daily now only has to be completed every 500 hours. Also, removing debris from the undercarriage is required much less frequently because of a redesigned system, while tracks have been adjusted to prevent aggregate from sticking to the treads. “The spoil falls away,” Sanders said.

The cab has been upgraded as well. A new instrument panel is intuitive and easy for operators to use – particularly important for those who rent the machines.

The excavator line now includes flat glass on cabs, a considerable cost-savings when replacement is required.

Safety has been improved too. Each control is isolated, and none are engaged when the operator fires up the excavator. “Nothing is active when the engine starts,” Sanders explained.

A fuel-efficient idling system adds more cost savings. Automatic idle improves efficiency, as does a new one-touch idle system. With that process, the operator makes a quick touch and the machine idles, which makes it perfect for short interruptions.

The excavators also have seen boom and tilt adjustments that enable them to dump loads precisely without having to reposition the machine, Sanders said. Finally, a body that is 100% steel reduces costs through its durability.

For more information on companies in this article

JCB

Related Content

  • Higher production from all-wheel-drive haulers
    August 2, 2012
    The improvements to articulated dump trucks (ADTs) have been substantial in recent years. Comparing a present day machine with one from 20 or even just 10 years ago shows how far design has come. Major improvements have been made in visibility, operator comfort levels, rough terrain performance, driveline efficiency and productivity, to name but a few key areas. All of the latest generation ADTs available on the world market now come with Tier 3/Stage IIIA compliant diesels that produce far lower noise and
    Read More
  • GPS delivers accurate real time depth control
    July 13, 2012
    The novel EZ Dig Pro system offers real-time depth control for excavators and backhoe loaders. This package is said to provide precise grade control for digging a fixed depth or a slope and it boosts safety as there is no need for anyone going into the excavation to check depth. Applications include use in trenching and drainage ditches along roadways, as well as footings and foundation depths and cut-and-cover applications for a fixed depth for utilities.
    Read More
  • A competitive market
    August 2, 2012
    Competition is increasing in the earthmoving sectors, and for some companies market share is improving The wheeled loader market is becoming more competitive, with a number of firms now challenging the leading players, Caterpillar, Komatsu and Volvo. In other earthmoving product sectors such as excavators, companies such as Case, Doosan, Hyundai, JCB, Liebherr and Volvo are becoming more aggressive in terms of sales and are capturing market share. Case is gearing up its operations in Western Europe, Eastern
    Read More
  • Tough excavation from Caterpillar
    March 7, 2017
    Built as a heavy-duty machine, Caterpillar’s 323F LN excavator is specially designed with reinforced structures and massive counterweights. It can be used for severe applications and is equipped with heavy-duty booms and sticks made of high-strength steel and box section construction with internal baffies for added durability. The massive upper frame, car-body (lower frame), and track roller frames are designed for strength and long-term durability.
    Read More

Highlighted Content