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JCB site dumpers show an eye for design

Bringing together a wide range of operational, safety and performance-boosting features, JCB’s range of articulated site dumpers ensure optimal performance even in challenging environments

With five weight categories, JCB’s articulated site dumpers mean you can select the perfect machine for your application, whether it’s soil removal from a backyard or large-scale material movement on an infrastructure project.

Starting with the one-tonne 1T-2 and running through to the nine-tonne 9T-2, JCB’s dumper range has been designed to meet the needs of both the rental market and contractors with a focus on innovation, operator safety and ease of use.

The electric dumper is ideal for enclosed spaces. Image: JCB

Design features

A key focus in the design of the JCB site dumper range has been making visibility of the skip and machinery surroundings as clear as possible, says JCB CEA national materials handling manager Greg Sealey.

“JCB always prioritises operator comfort and safety and has included a range of key features in its range of dump trucks to ensure this is a focus in the dump truck range,” he says.

This includes a lowered skip profile that allows the operator to see more of the surrounding area over the top of the skip, especially when travelling with a load. JCB says forward visibility has been increased by 30 per cent compared to a conventional front tip skip.

The angled sides of the skip also reduces blind spots and provides a clearer view of the ground and any potential obstacles.

For additional visibility, an optional camera provides a direct view in front of the machine on a display in the cab, which can be useful when tipping or manoeuvring in tight spaces.

With regards to precision and ease of operation, the five models in the site dumper range are all articulated, allowing for greater adaptability to sites with more difficult terrain.

“The articulated design of JCB dump trucks significantly influences their movement, providing enhanced manoeuvrability, improved off-road performance and a reduction in ground disturbance,” Sealey says.

JCB says this makes its site dumper range particularly suited to withstand the rigours of the rental industry, along with its LiveLink telematics providing 24/7 monitoring of security, safety and service alerts.

Additional features include a two-stage inhibit system that ensures the operator is wearing a seatbelt during operation, green and amber LED beacons and LED work lights come as standard, a warning alarm alerts other site workers to machine movement and a swing tip lock keeps the skip locked in a forward facing position when the machine is on the move, to prevent it from swinging and tipping the machine.

Easy access to the engine. Image: JCB

Built for confined spaces

Starting with dumpers designed for smaller sites, JCB’s 1T-2 comes with a 16.1kW Perkins Stage V engine that has 21 per cent more torque than the previous model.

A transport weight of under 1,400kg means it can be easily towed to site, while the narrow width makes it ideal for confined access points. Narrow tyres can also be fitted as an option, reducing the width to below 1m.

Despite its compact size, the 1T-2 can lift a one-tonne payload and its High-Tip feature means material can be tipped into skips and large containers.

The 3T-2 meanwhile includes a 18.9kW Stage V engine with no diesel particulate filter needed. Designed for applications such as utility installation or landscaping, the 3T-2 can carry three tonnes, while a front or swivel tip option increases the machine’s versatility on site.

The 3T-2 comes with the option of road lights to allow the machine to be driven between sites, while an ergonomic transmission dump switch allows the operator to divert engine power from the transmission to the hydraulic system to increase performance.

Additional safety features include a key immobiliser to prevent theft, engine tip-over protection to prevent engine damage in the event of a tip-over and a tilt warning system that notifies the operator when they are reaching the limits of the machine.

A tilting base on the 1T-2 and 3T-2 models provides easy access to the engine and dipstick and fluid fill points.

Three-tonne dumper. Image: JCB

Electric moves

Ideal for enclosed work sites where noise and emissions are a concern, the 1TE model is an electric-powered one-tonne dumper powered by two 48V 5kWh lithium-ion batteries that provide a full day’s work.

Three charging options of 110V, 230V and 415V provide flexibility around on-site charging while the near-silent operation and powerful LED work lights allow for work to continue into the night.

The 1TE comes with a high tip skip, ROPS frame and two-stage drive inhibit system to prevent movement without the operator securely belted in.

“There has been a lot of interest in the construction and rental sector for these,” Sealey says.

“A lot of customers are now looking for products with a more sustainable focus, and the ability to charge rather than use diesel has been positively received by the market.

“In particular, construction areas such as underground car parks, shopping centres and hospital maintenance and construction – where both noise and diesel emissions are a major concern – the use of electric units almost completely eliminates these issues.”

Cabbed dumpers

For larger-scale work, the 6T-2 and 9T-2 dumpers come with a JCB EcoMAX 4.4-litre 55kW engine and the option of a SiteSafe cab in addition to ROPS and FOPS enclosures.

A front mounted camera is standard, with the option to upgrade to a full side and rear camera kit. As an alternative to the ROPS frame, a ROPS/FOPS Level II frame is available and an optional skip guard prevents large pieces of material from falling back into the cab.

The 6T-1 model comes with in-front tip and swivel tip versions that can carry six tonnes, while the 9T-1 is a front-tipping machine with a payload limit of nine tonnes.

Four-speed permanent 4WD powershuttle transmission on both models ensures ease of operation over rougher terrain, while a tilted seat base provides access to maintenance points.

The SiteSafe cab has been tested to withstand the impact from a 20-tonne excavator, while large cab windows fitted with Hammerglass means the operator has clear visibility all around the machine without compromising on safety. For additional protection, a front screen guard is available as an option.

For long days on the site, operator comfort is key. JCB has addressed this with a standard heater and optional chiller system for climate control inside the cab, while both doors have lockback and ajar stays for increased ventilation or communication.

Further safety designs include a Hi-Viz step and grab handles to reduce the chance of trips and slips. JCB has also lowered the height of the cab in response to industry feedback to improve access and further increase visibility from the operator’s seat. This also lowers the centre of gravity for improved stability.

To improve the durability in adverse conditions, the 6T-2 and 9T-2 models have relay protection preventing water ingress into key electrical components, and daily checks are simple with ground level access to all main service areas.

Industry support

JCB CEA provides sales, parts and service Australia-wide through a network of five branches in Adelaide, Brisbane, Melbourne, Perth and Sydney and over 70 dealer outlets. This means, no matter your application or location, parts and service support are nearby to keep you up and running.

“The JCB dump truck range is ideal for a host of different applications but specifically construction sites, mines, roadworks and landfill,” Sealey says.

“The features we see most operators enjoying are the spacious cab with loads of legroom and storage, the adjustable seating and steering to accommodate operators of different sizes and preferences and the intuitive controls that are ergonomically positioned and easy to reach, minimising operator fatigue and maximising productivity.

“With exceptional manoeuvrability, off-road performance, and stability, they are extremely versatile and efficient in a wide range of applications.” 

For more information, visit: jcbcea.com.au

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