When it comes to choosing the largest excavator appropriate for a project, options abound on the market.
Bruce Leigh of Underground NRG operates a DX170LC-5 crawler excavator among other pieces of equipment in his northwest Iowa company, which provides underground utility work among other services.
“It’s another asset to my operation. It doesn’t weigh a whole lot. It’s narrow. It performs well for lifting things and excavating. I can get into tighter spots with it. It’s a great machine,” he says.
The excavator also is user-friendly for his crew, Leigh adds.
Leigh says he also appreciates the safety features of the alarms and camera.
“It’s pretty nice on fuel, too,” he says. “And it’s quiet. I have two other Doosan machines. I like the way they operate.”
The DX170LC-5 crawler excavator is the newest offering from Doosan Infracore North America.
“It allows for easier transportation, especially for small- to mid-size contractors who perform light excavation projects such as digging residential basements or commercial building footings,” notes Aaron Kleingartner, marketing manager.
“This model reduces the need to obtain a special transport permit when moving to and from job sites,” he adds. “The width and combined weight between the machine, trailer, and Class 7 towing vehicle meets current transportation requirements.”
The DX170LC-5 features a 127 hp engine (net), an operating weight of 38,376 pounds, a 20-foot maximum digging depth, a 28-foot, 10-inch maximum digging reach, an 18,078 foot-pounds arm digging force, and a 25,794 foot-pounds bucket digging force.
Similar to current “dash-5” Doosan crawler excavators, the DX170LC-5 offers four power modes for more control to better balance fuel consumption and machine power to the working conditions, says Kleingartner.
Power modes include Power+ mode, designed to deliver the fastest workgroup speeds for loading trucks, optimal digging performance, and extra power for digging in hard ground.
Power mode is designed for optimal power and performance for tough digging conditions and truck loading tasks.
Standard power mode balances the excavator’s fuel consumption in everyday digging, grading, and lifting tasks.
Economy mode reduces fuel consumption for low-demand applications and slows down machine movement for conditions requiring extra precision.
The four machine power modes also provide increased efficiency and production, says Kleingartner.
“The Doosan crawler excavator operator has more control over machine performance and fuel consumption by selecting the appropriate power mode,” he adds.
Regarding safety, properly operating construction equipment can be aided with cameras, says Kleingartner.
Doosan crawler excavators are manufactured with a standard rearview camera. Operators can activate the camera view on the LCD screen inside the excavator cab.
“Available as an option, a side view camera gives operators enhanced visibility to the side of the machine opposite of the cab door,” says Kleingartner, adding that a split-screen display option enables operators to use both views for increased visibility around the machine.
Excavator owners can use their equipment more efficiently with the use of a telematics management system, Kleingartner points out.
Doosan Infracore North America offers the DoosanCONNECT telematics management system to help contractors determine their total cost of ownership of a specific piece of construction equipment.
Contractors can use the website to see the utilization of their machines, including how many hours they’re running, working time, idle time, and what power mode they’re using. Contractors also can use the website to monitor maintenance items such as oils and filters to see what’s upcoming and what’s overdue for service.
The DoosanCONNECT app makes it possible for contractors to remotely monitor their construction equipment from anywhere at any time, says Kleingartner.
“The system allows contractors to set up alerts. Contractors can be alerted through email or push notification through the mobile app, like receiving an alert from any other mobile application,” he says.
“Contractors can set up their accounts to get alerted about what they want to see specifically and when. The system could be set up for email alerts 24/7, while the mobile DoosanCONNECT app is set up to only alert them Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. just for major warnings on the machine.”
While the owner and operator should familiarize themselves with the machine before operation using the Doosan operation and maintenance manual, operators should additionally visit with a local dealer’s sales specialist to get any questions answered before the machine is delivered to the job site, notes Kleingartner.
“Follow-up questions may need to be addressed to the dealer’s service department,” he adds. “It’s critical that the owner and operator follow the manufacturer’s recommended service schedule to ensure the machine is working properly.”
Additionally, Doosan and its dealers provide a copy of the Association of Equipment Manufacturers (AEM) safety manual with each new machine.
Moss Utilities in the Dallas-Fort Worth, TX, area has favored the use of KOBELCO excavators in its work with underground utility installation services including water, sewer, storm drainage, duct bank, and fire lines. A second family business, Moss Excavation, which provides site excavation services for commercial, multi-family, and subdivision projects also utilizes KOBELCO excavators.
“The KOBELCO machines take care of business,” says Case Whitfield, vice president, Moss Utilities. “Our guys are always surprised once they step into the cab of a KOBELCO if they haven’t run one before. KOBELCO excavators are extremely efficient, powerful, and smooth to operate.”
KOBELCO excavators’ power boost function is designed to have no time limit. The independent travel feature is designed to enable the machine to move, lift, and swing simultaneously without experiencing loss of power. Operating modes are designed to enable excavator drivers to dial in the balance of fuel economy and job site productivity to suit the needs of the day and feature a 16% increase in fuel economy.
Operators get a 360-degree view of the job site from the cab. KOBELCO excavators come standard with a rear camera and rear working lights; swing flashers are designed to help other workers know when to stay out of the way.
The SK850LC-10 excavator is KOBELCO’s largest. The Generation 10 model is designed to deliver a digging force of 90,598 pounds. Optimal working ranges and a 146,800-pound drawbar pull force enable the SK850LC-10 to conquer rough terrain and slopes with increased productivity.
The 185,700-pound unit is powered by a 510 hp Tier IV Final HINO engine to enable it to tackle heavy-duty applications while remaining highly fuel-efficient.
While operating in ECO-mode, the SK850LC-10 offers approximately 17% improvement in fuel economy compared to its predecessor as a result of an enhanced hydraulic line layout that further reduces energy loss to ensure optimal performance.
A variable-geometry turbocharger is designed to lower fuel consumption while a new selective catalytic reduction system decreases NOx emissions by 80% to provide low operation emissions.
An improved lever control force of 25% further lessens operator fatigue during long hours of operation while added climate control outlets and an expanded cab interior are designed to provide a pleasant work environment. A FOPS top guard, rear-view camera, and swing flashers come standard on the SK850LC-10 to enhance job site safety.
Easy access to maintenance data from the operation management system is designed to greatly improve ease of maintenance scheduling and ensure a long service life while easy access to the cooling unit, engine compartment, and electrical components are designed to ensure convenient day-to-day maintenance.
The SK500LC-10 excavator is one of KOBELCO’s largest excavators. It is designed with a bucket digging force of 65,600 pounds, delivering 11% more digging volume than its predecessor.
The upgraded model also offers a 10% increase in work volume due to a new hydraulic regeneration system designed to minimize energy loss.
The 114,000-pound SK500 is powered by a 369-hp Tier IV Final HINO engine. A high-pressure common-rail fuel injection system and variable-geometry turbocharger reduce particulate matter while a large EGR cooler decreases NOx emissions by 80% to provide low operation emissions.
The KOBELCO SK500 also incorporates a new hydraulic drive to optimize the cooling fan rotation speed in an ultra-quiet operation.
Independent travel enables the SK500 to move, lift, and swing simultaneously without experiencing loss of power, while automatic swing priority instantly delivers full swing power during combined operations.
An optional Counterweight Removal System is designed to quicken counterweight removal and installation for cost reduction and increased safety.
A 25% reduction in pilot control operator force is designed to lessen fatigue during long hours of operation, while a reclining suspension seat, automatic air conditioner, radio with USB, AUX and Bluetooth capabilities, and large cup holder are designed for a pleasant work environment.
Improvements also include extended service intervals for engine oil, hydraulic oil, filter changes, and greasing. Ease of access to major compartments is designed to ensure convenient day-to-day maintenance, while the rearview and right-side cameras are designed for optimal visibility and safe operation.
The CASE CX750D is the largest and most powerful machine in the CASE excavator line, says Andrew Dargatz, product marketing manager, CASE Construction Equipment. It operates at 512 horsepower and is available in standard and mass excavation configurations.
The mass excavation configuration features a shorter boom and arm allowing for greater breakout forces and faster cycle times, and is capable of handling larger buckets for added capacity, says Dargatz.
The CX750D weighs 158,300 pounds and has a 75,090-pound digging force with Power Boost. The CX750D ME weighs 159,600 pounds, and it has a digging force of 75,090 pounds with Power Boost.
The CX750D was designed to achieve faster cycle times, improved control/responsiveness and greater fuel efficiency through an electronically-controlled hydraulic pump and larger control and solenoid valves.
These features, in combination with the CASE Intelligent Hydraulic System and its four integrated control systems—are designed to make optimal use of the machine’s hydraulic power and momentum.
The machine can be operated in one of three operating modes: Automatic, Heavy and Speed Priority—to meet hydraulic and engine power efficiency needs.
The CX750D achieves Tier IV Final compliance through a combination of selective catalytic reduction and diesel oxidation catalyst technologies.
It features a larger, more spacious cab than previous CASE machines in this size class, offering an adjustable workstation with a new high-back seat for optimal comfort and support. Standard rear- and side-view cameras feed a seven-inch widescreen monitor providing operators with real-time access to performance parameters including fuel consumption, operating hours and machine information.
Both maintenance and access to the machine have now been made easier with wider catwalks and new guardrails for safety. All filters are grouped in the pump compartment for simplicity. A new standard hydrostatic reversible fan is designed to respond to actual cooling demands and reduces power absorption and maintenance.
John Deere recently introduced a factory-integrated 2D or 3D Grade Guidance option on its 470G LC machine, the largest excavator to feature this solution, notes Jonny Spendlove, excavator product marketing manager, John Deere Construction & Forestry.
Equipped with a display in the operator station, the integrated Grade Guidance system provides operators with the elevation and position of the bucket cutting edge with respect to a target plane (2D) or design surface (3D).
“The information arms operators with the detail they need for precision excavation projects such as digging trenches for pipes, shaping ditches or slopes or digging structural foundations,” says Spendlove. “Support through the JDLink telematics system provides information on system utilization and allows rapid diagnosis of problems.”
The larger G-Series machines, such as the 470G LC, 670G LC, or 870G LC models, were designed for easy use, says Spendlove.
“Ergonomically correct short-throw pilot levers provide smooth, predictable fingertip control with less movement and effort while still providing the precision needed for jobs,” he says. “The Powerwise Plus hydraulic system balances engine performance and hydraulic flow for predictable operation. Three modes—high productivity, power, and economy—allow the operator to choose the right digging style for the job at hand.”
Simulators such as the recently-introduced John Deere modular simulators are optimal for operator training, says Spendlove.
“They provide highly-detailed, realistic virtual environments designed to cover basic and advanced operator duties through multiple job site tasks,” he adds. “A performance function provides metrics to measure student progress to help build proficiency and confidence.”
Safety is critical on the job site, Spendlove points out.
“These machines feature wide front, side, and overhead glass for virtually unobstructed views,” he adds. “Standard boom and frame lights and cab and boom-mounted light options provide illumination when working beyond daytime hours. Standard rear-view cameras on all large models provide an additional level of safety.”
Regarding efficiency and productivity, the factory-integrated Grade Guidance option on John Deere’s 470 helps operators complete precision-excavation applications more efficiently, notes Spendlove.
“The powerful EPA Final Tier 4 engines provide faster work cycles to move more material per gallon of fuel,” he adds. “Powerwise Plus technology provides smooth, reliable, fuel-efficient power while the power boost button feature on the controls provides the extra muscle for tough jobs.”
The EX1200-7 is one of Hitachi’s newest models.
“As our smallest mining excavator, it serves as a crossover machine for construction customers,” notes Brian Mace, mining product marketing and applications manager, Hitachi Construction Machinery, Americas.
“Equipped with Hitachi’s Fuel Consumption Optimization (FCO) technologies, the EX1200-7 is designed to improve total fuel economy by 6% as compared to the previous EX1200-6 through the engine and hydraulic system improvements,” he adds. The EX1200-7 features a fuel-efficient Cummins EPA Final Tier 4 engine with DEF.
“For non-regulated countries, a Cummins engine featuring fuel-calibration optimization settings helps contribute to improved efficiency,” says Mace. “Additionally, when the machine is in neutral, auto-idle reduces engine speed to save on fuel consumption.”
The optional Aerial Angle system provides the operator with a real-time continuous birds-eye view around the excavator. Cameras strategically mounted on the machine generate a single aerial view of the EX1200-7 surroundings. Multiple screen display options can be selected on the cab’s 7-inch Aerial Angle monitor for ease of operation.
The new ZX345USLC-6 is the largest of Hitachi’s reduced-tail-swing excavator line. Whether it’s road building or work in congested quarters, the ZX345USLC-6 offers the power necessary in its reduced tail-swing design, designed to maximize efficiency, reliability, and durability, says Jonny Spendlove, product marketing manager, excavators, Hitachi Construction Machinery, Americas.
The ZX345USLC-6 features a full-size cab. Designed for a 35-metric-ton machine, the heavy-duty undercarriage is designed to provide greater stability, increased lift capacity, and a lower center of gravity, notes Spendlove.
Hitachi’s TRIAS II three-pump hydraulic system is designed to provide multifunctioning performance and fast cycle times, enabling an operator to maximize productivity without sacrificing fuel economy because it provides even more flow, says Spendlove.
“When demanded, the third pump supplies additional hydraulic oil to the swing circuit without stealing oil and speed from other functions,” he adds.
Hitachi recently launched Solutions Linkage Integrated Grade Guidance with Topcon, a factory-integrated grade reference system. Solutions Linkage is designed to assist contractors in achieving the right grade and monitors in real-time, says Spendlove.
“When selected, Solutions Linkage is fully integrated into the machine’s cab and structures, which helps shield key components such as wire harnesses and sensors from damage,” he says. “That integration also provides the operator with conveniently placed joysticks to provide effortless control.”
Hitachi’s ZXLink system comes standard equipped on most excavators.
“Owners can remotely access data on the fleet location, functions, hours, fuel consumption, alerts, and more without leaving their seat,” says Spendlove. “Telematics help keep fleet managers updated on maintenance checkpoints and alert them to any failures or problems that need addressing. Features like this contribute to proactive maintenance and can help lower the total cost of ownership.”
JCB recently introduced the US and Canada to the 220X tracked excavator. It features central main boom mounting for increased durability and greater digging accuracy and a 15% larger cab with integral ROPS structure for operator comfort and reduced noise levels.
Other features include a new command pod with ergonomically-designed switches and controls and intuitive user interface and reduced servicing with 250-hour greasing intervals on the boom and dipper as well as simplified, 10-checkpoint 500-hour service requirements.
“Every detail of this machine has been optimized for enhanced durability, reliability, ease of use, and operator comfort,” says Richard Fox-Marrs, president and chief executive officer for JCB North America.
New cab mounts are designed to improve isolation and work together with flat glazing to contribute to the 220X’s low 68dB(A) interior noise rating.
Operators have the choice of three new Grammer seat designs, with heating and ventilation among the options. Servo levers are mounted from the seat frame and move with the operator. Foot pedals, footrests, and tracking levers are redesigned for optimal comfort.
The command pod to the operator’s right-hand side houses ergonomically-designed switches and controls. A 7-inch tilt-adjustable monitor provides intuitive menus and functionality and is accessed through an automotive-style rotary controller.
The upper structure of the JCB 220X is 8 feet and 10 inches wide—8 inches broader than previous models—allowing the main boom to be mounted in the machine’s center.
The design reduces stress on the slew bearing and facilitates greater accuracy when trenching, as well as enabling the use of larger buckets without impacting the tracks.
The upper structure features a pronounced, all-around impact guard protection for the service access doors while recessed counterweight protects the rear end from impact damage. Bolt-on handrails and mirrors are easily replaced if necessary.
Service intervals on the 220X are extended for reduced downtime. Large doors provide ease of access to all service points. The hour meter, HVAC filter, cab air filter, and single fuse box can be accessed from ground level. Greasing points are grouped.
The JCB 220X uses the JCB EcoMAX Tier IV Final engine, outputting 173 hp (129kW). Kawasaki hydraulic pumps and Kayaba valves feature larger spools and the latest generation valve block for reduced hydraulic losses. 1-inch diameter hydraulic hoses enable greater flow without increasing oil speed.
An optional boom float with two modes enables easier grading and reduces stress when operating a hydraulic breaker.
Kurt Moncini, Komatsu’s senior product manager for tracked products, notes the introduction of the company’s new 250,000-pound excavators, the PC1250LC-11 and PC1250SP-11.
The LC model has a long undercarriage, longer boom, and three arm options. The SP or mass excavation model has a shorter undercarriage and mass excavation boom and arm. These excavators meet Tier IV emissions regulations but do not require the use of diesel exhaust fluid (DEF) or a selective catalytic reduction system.
“The owner/operator doesn’t have to deal with the additional cost of diesel exhaust fluid or the supply logistics of having that available,” says Moncini, adding that it eliminates what is typically a much bigger DEF tank.
The new models replace the former PC1250LC-8 and PC1250SP-8.
“Effective with these new models, horsepower is up 13% to 758 hp. A new Power + model provides an 8 to 10% improvement in cycle performance with this new horsepower,” says Moncini.
The new Power + mode does not compromise fuel consumption, he adds.
Operators now have enhanced situational awareness with a KomVision camera system designed to offer improved visibility with a monitor in the cab offering the operator both a bird’s-eye view and the ability to select individual camera views.
The four-camera system is standard on the excavator and enables operators to see to the left, rear, and right sides of the machine.
“If you’re doing deep underground utility work, putting in big water pipes and operating in an urban environment, it significantly improves operator awareness,” says Moncini.
The excavator’s cab is designed to be wider and quieter than a typical construction excavator, says Moncini.
“An operator can sit in these cabs for an 8- to 12-hour shift, low sound levels, auto climate control, and stereo radio help reduce operator fatigue,” he adds.
The excavators also are designed to be quiet with a hydraulic system that “provides nice, smooth control multifunction,” notes Moncini. “We have a boom cushion system that helps reduce shock loading. The hydraulic cushion works with the boom circuit, so if an operator accidentally drops the boom fast, it’s going to cushion those loads.
“There is also a swing priority system for short-swing loading cycles. The operator can have the machine put more priority on the swing for large swing angles or put a priority on the boom for faster boom speed for short cycles, matching the rate that bucket raises for short swings or long swings.”
Komatsu offers training for new operators or those desiring a refresher course. Simulators also help train operators.
“This class excavator isn’t any different to learn than a mini excavator or a small- or mid-sized excavator,” says Moncini. “Typically, a person with good hand/eye coordination can be productive in a couple of days and can probably become efficient in a matter of weeks or months. It all depends on the operator’s skill level.”
The excavator also features an optional 45-degree hydraulically raised and lowered access ladder.
“Instead of having to climb up on the machine, the operator goes up a flight of steps with large walkways and handrails around the outside of the machine,” notes Moncini, adding that it amplifies safety on the job.
Komatsu’s hydraulic control logic “matches engine output to pumps, listens or feels what the operator input is, and then routes that hydraulic oil most effectively,” notes Moncini.
The machine also features a four to five pass match for the 60-ton truck, a six to seven pass match on the 70-ton truck, and an eight to nine pass match on a 100-ton truck, Moncini points out.
The 1250 comes in two different configurations. The SP in the PC1250SP-11 stands for “super performance” and is a mass excavation configured machine with a shorter standard undercarriage, a shorter boom, and an 11-foot, 2-inch arm designed for big buckets that can take in up to 11 cubic yards depending on the material, says Moncini.
The PC1250LC-11 (long undercarriage) features a longer boom. It also features three different arms: 11 feet 2 inches, 14 feet 9 inches, and 18 feet 8 inches.
“The PC1250LC-11 has significantly expanded the zone of application,” says Moncini. “It’s for general construction where reach and depth are needed or the ability to do mass excavation but at the same time put the pipe in the ground.”
Liebherr’s largest dirt-moving excavators are the R976, weighing in at approximately 200,000 pounds, and the R980 SME (Super Mass Excavator) weighing in at 210,000 pounds.
“The R976 is more a general dirt-moving machine whereas the R980 is a machine that would be used for moving higher density material,” notes Marcus Barnes, product specialist, Liebherr USA construction equipment division.
“The difference between the two is that R980 has a next size machine class undercarriage, larger counterweight, and bigger attachment hydraulic cylinders than what is offered on the R976.”
In the R980 SME, a heavy counterweight allows a larger bucket and special attachments to achieve higher ripping and breakout forces. It features a Tier IV final engine with an output of 420 kW/571 hp and a backhoe bucket capacity of 6.80 to 9.42 yards.
The R976 crawler excavator is designed with an optimized hydraulic system and intelligent operation. It features a Tier IV final engine with an engine output of 400 kW/544 hp and a backhoe bucket capacity of 2.62 to 8.90 yards.
The focus of the large excavators is production and moving as much material as fast as possible, says Barnes.
Liebherr incorporated into the design a third swing pump dedicated to the swing function of the excavator.
“This allows the machine to have faster cycle times because when the machine is swinging, other machine functions don’t use oil or overtake the priority of the swing function,” says Barnes.
Safety features include factory-standard rear and side view cameras and impact-resistant glass windows. FGPS front protection guard and FOPS upper protection guard can be added for additional operator security.
Also standard are hoist cylinder and stick cylinder load holding valves and a hydraulic hose rupture safety device preventing uncontrolled lowering of the working equipment in the event of damage to one of the hydraulic hoses.
The third swing pump system and high bucket and digging forces are designed for increased efficiency and production.
“The high bucket and digging forces allow you to dig through materials easier,” says Barnes. “The combination of the third swing pump and higher digging forces translates to higher cycle times.”
Liebherr offers operators familiarization training. “We go over the daily maintenance requirements of the machines and all of the different machine controls and buttons in the operator’s cab so they feel comfortable while operating the machine,” says Barnes.
Volvo Construction Equipment’s largest earthmoving excavator is the 75-ton EC750E. It features a 516-horsepower engine, a maximum digging depth of 23 feet, 8 inches, and a lifting capacity along the undercarriage of 67,184 pounds.
The EC750E includes updates designed to help operators be more efficient, including the simplified controls.
“For a more productive and fuel-efficient operation, the easy-to-use electro-hydraulic system gives the operator superior control of on-demand flow, reducing internal losses in the hydraulic circuit,” notes Sejong Ko, excavators product manager, Volvo Construction Equipment.
Filters are grouped and easy to access via walkways on either side of the machine, while greasing points are grouped and accessible from one position.
An optional auto lubrication system precisely applies the correct lubrication to all greasing points except the undercarriage at predetermined intervals.
The EC750E also is eligible for ActiveCare Direct, Volvo’s advanced telematics monitoring and fleet utilization system designed to help owners and operators monitor various metrics such as misuse of excavator work modes and set goals for improvement.
“ActiveCare Direct also can reduce unplanned maintenance and repair costs by catching problems before they occur and more quickly diagnosing and solving bigger issues,” says Ko. “It can also help end-users stay on top of scheduled maintenance with reminders and alerts.”
Improvements to the operator environment and safety features include a reduced number of switch controls, a larger LCD and interface, brighter LED work lights, and a side-view camera that can be viewed on the monitor via a shortcut button on the joystick.
The EC750E was designed to deliver heavy lifting power and high productivity without sacrificing fuel efficiency, says Ko.
“It delivers up to 15% higher productivity with 5% greater fuel efficiency than its predecessor, the EC700CL, thanks to the latest in engine technology and a fully electro-hydraulic control system,” adds Ko.
The D16J is a 516 hp, Tier 4 Final engine providing an 11% horsepower increase over the EC700CL.
That power—combined with larger diameter boom cylinders and increased working pressure—allows the EC750E to deliver a 7% increase in digging force and a 4% boost in hydraulic flow, Ko points out.