Kobelco SK75SR-7

LATEST SK75SR-7 KOBELCO EXCAVATOR A MAJOR IMPROVEMENT ON PREDECESSOR, SAYS CONTRACTOR

Galway based contractors Michael O’Duinn & A Mhic Inneallra Teo recently invested in another mid range Kobelco excavator from McSharry TRACK, having enjoyed a highly positive experience with a previous model.

The company’s Cathal Dunne tells us that the latest Kobelco SK75SR-7 is a big improvement on the predecessor it replaces. In fact, he says, “It is well ahead of the older SK75SR-3 in terms of speed, driver comfort and cab design, with a large touchscreen and a two camera system, offering great all round visibility.” With the company focused on contract work for the Republic’s ESB power network, the new machine is currently employed on erecting electricity poles in the Galway area. “I have been in the industry since 1991 and have driven plenty of other machines, but had no hesitation in changing to Kobelco when McSharry TRACK took on the dealership because of the excellent level of service and support they provide,” says Cathal, who also operates a 210 Kobelco. “My first Kobelco from McSharry’s served me very well, was always reliable and never let me down, which gave me the confidence to invest in this new machine which is exceeding my expectations; I’m operating it every day and it offers me a good working environment in all sorts of weather out here on the West Coast.” Michael O’Duinn & A Mhic Inneallra Teo was initially established in 1984 by Cathal’s father and has since gone from strength to strength, with a steady stream of successfully completed contracts under its belt.

Big Advancements

So let’s take a look at some of those improvements Cathal has mentioned that make the new Kobelco SK75SR-7 stand out from its predecessor. The distance between the upper structure and undercarriage has increased by 20mm in order to reduce damage by rocks, and the machines’ blade geometry has been improved, making it easier for operation in mountainous areas. Other key improvements to the machines’ all-round performance include a 15% reduction in digging cycle time and 37% increase in arm digging speed for improved productivity, and a 27,9% increase in engine output. In addition, the machine’s bucket digging force has been increased by over

Fuel consumption can be monitored and work modes can be changed via that 10-inch colour multi-display in the cab that Cathal praised; it is the largest screen in class. As Cathal pointed out, the cab has been increased in size in order to promote greater operator comfort and safety. A Kobelco-branded Grammer heated air suspension seat is installed as standard for excellent shock absorption and superior operator comfort, and the armrests and joystick moves with the seat for optimum working position. The levers can also be moved horizontally in order to reduce operator fatigue. The ROPS and FOPS II-compliant cabin provides increased operator safety while the LED-spec work lights and rear/ side cameras offer excellent visibility on site. In addition, all maintenance related items are concentrated at the right hand side of the machine for easy access and the FOPS II guard can be opened for window maintenance.

AT A GLANCE

Increased bucket digging force from 52.7 KN to 60.2 KN (+14.4%) Increased clearance between the upper frame and crawler from 76mm to 96 mm INDR system for low surrounding noise levels Large size cab for increased operator comfort Ergonomic controls; armrests and joystick moves with seat 10-inch colour monitor; largest in the industry Jog Dial with multiple functions for simple operations Industry standard phone holder and hands-free function Built-in rear and side cameras LED backlights for all the switches and dials

14% from 52.7 to 60.3 kN for superior power when working in areas of hard ground. With its short radius design, the SK75SR-7 is also ideal for working on jobsites where space is limited, such as in residential areas. The inclusion of Kobelco’s innovative iNDr (Integrated Noise and Dust Reduction Cooling System), a superior method of noise suppression that promotes low noise, exceptional engine cooling, enhanced reliability and minimal machine downtime, reinforces the machines’ urban working credentials. When it comes to fuel efficiency, the SK75SR-7 features three working modes that can be used to balance work volume with optimum fuel consumption. H-mode is used for heavy working, S-mode normal working and Eco-mode for prioritising fuel efficiency over work volume.

new product launch CATERPILLAR INTRODUCE LATEST FUEL EFFICIENT SERIES WHEEL LOADERS

The new Cat 980 and 982 medium wheel loaders in the 9 -11 tonne class are said to be up to 10% more productive, with lower maintenance costs when compared to the previous 980M and 982M powershift models.

New to this class of medium wheel loaders, the Cat 980 XE and 982 XE models feature a Caterpillar designed and manufactured continuous variable transmission (CVT) that delivers increased fuel efficiencies up to 35% compared to the M series models. These new wheel loaders include an expanded technology platform to increase machine performance and improve operating efficiency. Standard Cat Payload with Assist on all 980 and 982 series loaders provides an accurate weighing of bucket payloads, so operators can load to target the first time every time. This new technology includes low-lift-weigh and manual tip-off functions. Optional Cat Advanced Payload expands the system’s functionality with ListsManagement, Multitask- & Manual-Add Modes and Tip-off assist. Compatible with third-party scale house software, it can wirelessly integrate the machine in the scale-house process with Dispatch-forLoading (additional subscription required). The new Cat Autodig with Auto Set Tyres promotes proper loading technique to significantly reduce tyre slip and loading time. It can automate the complete bucket loading cycle to deliver consistently high bucket fill factors for up to 10% more productivity. Standard along with Autodig and Auto Set Tyres, the new models introduce Application-Profiles, in which the press of one button sets multiple machine parameters to optimise settings for the application at hand. Customised profiles can be created to fit customer-specific cases. Selectable on-screen Job Aids, along with a streamlined new controls layout, promotes ease of operation to help all operators be more productive. The 980 XE and 982 XE also feature a high-efficiency continuously variable parallel path drive system. It combines a direct mechanical path from the engine to the wheels with a HystatTM variator. Deep system integration of the Cat CVT, engine, hydraulic and cooling system significantly improve fuel efficiency up to 35%, through lowering the rated engine speed with high rimpull. These models feature fine rimpull modulation capability

and virtual gears to allow operators a seamless switch from powershift machines. Operating noise levels are also reduced.

Comfort and safety

Access to the new operator’s cab is easy thanks to its wide door, stair-like steps and grabrails for additional stability. The new adjustable suspension seat comes in Comfort, Deluxe and Premium levels that includes heated and heated/cooled options for improved year-round comfort. Seat belts are now monitored, and the system can be completed with an exterior beacon for supervisors to enhance job site safety. Taller operators will appreciate increased legroom inside the new cab, while sound suppression, seals and viscous cab mounts lower noise and vibration levels for a quiet work environment. Next generation ride control acts as a shock absorber to improve ride comfort over rough terrain. The loaders’ new dashboard and highresolution touchscreen display provide intuitive and user-friendly loader control for enhanced performance. The seat-mounted electrohydraulic joystick steering system provides precise control over the new Cat 980 and 982 series models with minimal arm movements to increase comfort and loading accuracy. A conventional steering wheel is also available on the 980. Automatic control of the air conditioning system keeps the cab as cool as desired. The new loaders now feature a push-tostart system that requires a valid OperatorID to crank the engine. Operator ID works with a passcode input on the display or with the optional Cat Bluetooth key. It can act as a machine security system with programmable operating restriction. The floor-to-ceiling windshield improves forward visibility of the work area, while the standard rear-vision camera along with convex and spot mirrors help to enhance visibility around the machine to improve operating safety. Cat Detect radar to alert operators to hazards and a Multi-view (360-degree) vision system are available options to provide an extra level of monitoring around the loaders to advance safe operation.

Maintenance savings

Extended fluid and filter change intervals on the Cat 980 and 982 wheel loaders reduce maintenance costs. All maintenance intervals may now be scheduled in 1000hour increments, eliminating service downtime every 500 hours. All models offer convenient access to hydraulic &electrical service centers and grouped lube points for fast and easy servicing. Remote services technologies on the new Cat medium wheel loaders can save service trips to the jobsite and ensure the machine operates at peak performance. Remote Troubleshoot connects the machine to the dealer’s service department overthe-air to quickly diagnose fault codes without on-machine cable connection. Remote Flash ensures the wheel loaders are operating with the most up-to-date software while working around the production schedule. Update files are pushed to the machine in the background and installation can be initiated from the Cat Remote Services Web Portal by the customer in a safe manner, reducing impact on production schedules. Helping to manage fleet loader location, hours and maintenance schedules, the web portal connects fleet managers to the machine and allows dealer service requests to be made from a mobile device.

Work tools

Cat Performance Series buckets balance bucket shape against the machine’s linkage for higher fill factors and better material retention that other bucket designs with the same rated capacity. Cat Work tools are an integral part of the complete machine design and are a significant contributor to the performance and efficiency of Cat wheel loaders. The new Cat 980 can be equipped with the optional Fusion Quick Coupler, which delivers quick bucket changes without leaving the cab. Contractors can also choose from several purpose-built special configurations to optimise loader performance and durability in tough applications, including Industrial & Waste, Forestry, Steel-mill, and Block-handler.