Kobelco Construction Machinery Europe (KCME) has announced the arrival of its latest Generation 10 specialist earthmoving and construction excavators. The SK260LC-10 and the SK260NLC-10 are the next Kobelco conventional excavators to comply with Stage IV of the exhaust emissions regulations and feature exceptionally low emissions and reduced operational costs while delivering an increase in working performance.
In pursuit of fuel efficiency, the SK260LC-10/SK260NLC-10 again raises the standard with acclaimed technology-led development. Compared with the Generation 9 equivalent model, S-mode (normal work) fuel consumption has decreased by 9%, while Eco-mode sees a 10% reduction this represents exceptional fuel savings to the customer and this is further enhanced with a 5% productivity improvement in H-mode operation. One of the main contributors to improved fuel consumption is the implementation of a new Kobelco developed engine-cooling fan design that requires less operating energy to reduce engine workload.
Powered by Hino engines, the SK260LC-10/SK260NLC-10 incorporates a DOC (Diesel Oxidisation Catalyst) and the combination of SCR (Selective Catalyst Reduction) and DPF (Diesel Particulate Filter). Together these key systems reduce the amount of DEF/AdBlue fluid consumption used in the post-exhaust gas system, which also dramatically reduces the effects of particulate matter discharge and ensures Stage IV emissions regulations are complied with. The reduction of harmful NOx by approximately 88% further enhances the environmental credentials of Kobelco machinery. For this reason, Generation 10 machines will feature a globe motif within its corporate decal/colour scheme to denote Global awareness.
Quality of design and manufacture not only lends itself to clean, powerful and cost effective operating performance working hours and a long working life of the machine are also increased, again enhancing cost efficiency. An example of advanced design technology can be found with the Kobelco Arm Interflow System (AIS). When lowering the boom, a new hydraulic regenerative system enables the boom’s weight to force hydraulic fluid to the shovel arm. This means the use of forced fluid from an external force, for instance, the pump, is greatly reduced. Less engine/hydraulic workload denotes cost efficiency.
Serviceability on the new model is further improved with several key updates. The upper deck has a revised layout and aids easy access to the engine compartment. At the same time the machines gain a cleaner profile. More importantly, from a safety and work point of view, the operator has a clearer view to the right hand side. Other updates include: new compact and easily replaceable canister-type hydraulic oil return filter; a new fuel filter with greater filtration area; and a new reinforced air cleaner element. Operator-read diagnostics via the cabin monitor help to ensure work continuity, such examples are on-screen and audible warnings for hydraulic oil temperature and clogged oil filter.
Featuring the latest engineering aspects in boom and arm design by incorporating revised structural sections, reinforcement points and pin bosses, the excavator easily achieves the daily demands of vastly differing working environments and conditions.
Additional operator benefits include safety cabs revised to include control levers with a lighter-feel, a new ‘lock’ lever and control lever box. Additional air-conditioning vents and revised rear storage tray complement Kobelco’s renowned cabin comfort. Easy daily and scheduled maintenance, extended service intervals and a European spare parts back-up complete the Kobelco experience.
Commenting on the introduction of SK260LC-10/SK260NLC-10, KCME product marketing manager, Peter Stuijt, said, “Once again Kobelco has produced a product that matches and exceeds the requirements and standards of today’s customers. Class-leading fuel economy with high work performance is the direct result of Japanese design and engineering.
“As can be seen with the impressive specification and features of SK260LC-10/SK260NLC-10, Japanese technology and customer-led feedback has successfully come together as one to provide customers with reliability, operator comfort, low cost and high work efficiency while returning a remarkably small carbon footprint.”
August 20, 2015
