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Kobelco unleashes new greener, safer excavator

Leading excavator manufacturer Kobelco have just released its new 50 tonne excavator SK500LC-9 which according to the company will feature increased power, enhanced fuel efficiency and a larger, safer cab.

The new machine is scheduled to arrive on Australian shores this month.

Kobelco Australia General Manager Doug McQuinn says the machine will be available for sale through the company’s dealer network and is already attracting an amount of interest.

“We are already fielding enquiries from customers and we expect early orders,” he says.  

According to Kobelco, the SK500LC-9 features a Hino P11C-VC six-cylinder common rail engine that delivers 10 per cent more productivity and better fuel efficiency than the previous model, the SK480LC-8.

“The Tier 4A Hino engine in the SK500LC-9 uses an EGR cooler which helps combustion and the inclusion of a DPR filter results in reduced emissions into the environment,” McQuinn says.

“Meanwhile, more engine torque and intelligent hydraulics give you faster cycle times to get more work done.”

On top of Kobelco’s default H-mode and S-mode options for heavy-duty and standard work, the new machine will also have a new ECO mode which McQuinn says will deliver fuel savings of up to 13 per cent and increase work volume per litre of fuel by eight per cent

“Compared with earlier models, the latest unit also gives 5.4 per cent higher engine power output and a maximum torque increase of five per cent.”

In addition to fuel efficiency and better energy output, McQuinn says the SK500LC-9 will feature better safety features and enhanced comfort for the operator.

The cab will feature both rollover protection and falling object protection and is certified to 56,000 kg to cater for large front attachments.

“The roomy dimensions make it comfortable for operators as well as offering plenty of storage space,” McQuinn adds.

“The cab is designed for minimal vibration and is pressurised to eliminate dust. You get excellent rear visibility thanks to the low engine cover and a wide-angle rear view camera that comes standard.”

An Intelligent Control System within Kobelco’s machines can recognise operator’s moves and assist by providing power when and where it is needed.

Customers can also find a seven inch monitor with easy-to-read controls in the new machine and an attachment mode that allows the operator to program 10 different flow and pressure settings to accommodate a wide variety of attachments

The operating weight of the new model is almost 50,000 kg, which according to Kobelco is significantly heavier than earlier models.

“The long beefy X-frame provides excellent stability and balance,” McQuinn says.

“The model also features a high capacity hydraulic system that can be adjusted from inside the cab and two auxiliary hydraulic modes that let you switch between one-way and two-way flow, again without leaving the cab.”

A wide selection of buckets and couplers are available for use with the SK500LC-9.

“With its fuel savings, huge power, intelligent hydraulics and enhanced operator safety and comfort, the SK500LC-9 will meet the needs of Australian heavy equipment operators,” McQuinn says.

Click to browse Kobelco excavators for sale on TradeEarthmovers.com.au.

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