Skip to main content

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

Related Content

  • GOMACO claims new paver is smartest available yet
    January 6, 2017
    GOMACO claims that its all-new GP3 slipform paver is the most sophisticated on the market, thanks to a series of new features. The machine is designed for paving widths of up to 9.14m and benefits from a dual-telescoping design that boosts its versatility and adaptability. The machine has a smart frame widening system to allow multiple width changes, as well as smart leg positioning and smart steering capabilities due to its full-steer tracks. These features are all controlled by its GOMACO-developed G+ dig
  • World of Asphalt/AGG1 Aggregates Forum & Expo
    April 13, 2012
    World of Asphalt 2012 and the co-located AGG1 Aggregates Forum & Expo will be the largest in the history of the two events.
  • Dozing performer
    February 7, 2012
    Case Construction Equipment is aiming two new mid-size dozers aimed at precision grading and heavy duty earthmoving applications. The larger 1650L and smaller 1150K feature high performance hydrostatic drives, which allow full power turns. The 1650L is driven by a Tier 3 compliant diesel rated at 107kW while the 1150K has the same model engine but rated at 88kW. In both cases peak torque arrives at just 1,400rpm, and has been developed for powerful low down torque characteristics, ideal for dozer applicatio
  • JCB engine uses ‘mini-SCR’ to meet Tier 4 Final
    January 6, 2017
    JCB says its Ecomax Stage 4/Tier 4 Final engine can be engineered into many existing machines without needing additional space by using a ‘one can’ selective catalytic reduction (SCR). According to the company’s chief technology officer, Tim Burnhope, in many cases the mini SCR on the Stage 4/Tier 4 Final Ecomax engine can be positioned in the same space occupied by the exhaust silencer on previous generations. He said, “Our engine is already so clean that we only need 2% to 3% of urea, which allows us to u