Innovative wheeled excavator from JCB

JCB has high hopes for its new Hydradig wheeled excavator, which is said to offer high versatility and stability, as well as visibility, mobility, manoeuvrability and serviceability. A key feature of the machine is the novel layout of its engine and fuel tank, mounted on the lower chassis member rather than on the rotating upperstructure. This helps provide a much better view from the newly-designed cab, aided by large glass panels, and allows the operator to see all four wheels. This radical design also lo
April 13, 2016 Read time: 2 mins
JCB’s versatile Hydradig offers new capabilities
255 JCB has high hopes for its new Hydradig wheeled excavator, which is said to offer high versatility and stability, as well as visibility, mobility, manoeuvrability and serviceability. A key feature of the machine is the novel layout of its engine and fuel tank, mounted on the lower chassis member rather than on the rotating upperstructure. This helps provide a much better view from the newly-designed cab, aided by large glass panels, and allows the operator to see all four wheels. This radical design also lowers the centre of gravity and ensures far greater stability than on earlier-generation wheeled excavators. A spokesperson for the firm said, “We have launched the most innovative product for many years.”

With its low centre of gravity, the machine is also able to travel at up to 40km/h on road and without exhibiting the sometimes choppy ride at speed of conventional wheeled excavators. Its stepless hydrostatic transmission means that there is no need to change gear while driving and it can also tow a load weighing up to 3.5tonnes, allowing it to transport additional worktools, hydraulic attachments or generators.

Power comes from a JCB EcoMAX engine that delivers 81kW, as well as high torque at low rpm and low exhaust emissions. The low centre of gravity also delivers good reach and lifting capabilities, while allowing a short tailswing design that means the machine can work up close to buildings, bridge supports or New Jersey barriers on road projects, for example.

The machine has two- or four-wheel steer and a 4m turning minimum circle as well as a crab steer function for manoeuvrability. A reverse steer option means that the operator can always be facing forwards when the machine is being driven. Users can specify either single, twin or low flotation tyres, depending on the customer needs or operating conditions. Axle oscillation allows operation on uneven ground while the machine’s other benefits include ground level access to daily check points and ease of serviceability.

For more information on companies in this article

JCB

Related Content

  • The concrete option
    July 31, 2012
    Concrete highway construction techniques and technology continues to evolve. Mike Woof reports The recent increases in oil costs are having a knock-on effect for the road construction sector, as asphalt prices have increased noticeably and faster than those for concrete. This has spurred renewed discussion over which construction technique now offers the best long term solution for road building. The debate between those in favour of concrete and those preferring asphalt for highway construction has been on
    Read More
  • Innovations in aggregates production will boost quarry efficiency
    March 16, 2016
    New innovations are underway that will help optimise rock crushing and screening operations and boost quarry efficiency overall - Mike Woof writes. Quarrying is a tough industry that provides enormous challenges to equipment providers as machines and technology have to be rugged, durable and productive. Cutting the cost of production while optimising output has been a major target for suppliers, with new technologies playing an increasingly important role. Taking the long view with regard to increased qu
    Read More
  • Innovative compaction
    February 24, 2012
    Dynapac is offering four new tandem rollers aimed at asphalt compaction duties that extends its range in the 7-13tonne class to eight models in all. These machines have been developed to provide a high quality surface finish, while being efficient to run with low maintenance needs and easy servicing.
    Read More
  • New soil compactors round out Atlas Copco’s range
    December 20, 2013
    Atlas Copco has completed the introduction of its fifth generation soil compactor range with the roll-out of the compact CA models. The new Dynapac CA1300 and CA1500 machines share features with the larger machines launched earlier this year, with a focus on reduced operating costs, low operating noise and fuel consumption and ease of servicing.
    Read More

Highlighted Content