Kobelco’s new range of Series 7 mini excavators have continued to impress the industry with their increased engine performance, improved operability, an updated cabin interior and easier maintenance.
Despite their small size, mini excavators play an important role on any jobsite. Their small working footprint enables better access to restricted spaces such as residential gardens and inside buildings, while they can also provide key support to larger construction projects.
With this in mind, Kobelco continually reviews and improves its range of mini excavators in order to meet the increasing demands of their operators.
The Kobelco SK28SR-7, SK30SR-7 and SK35SR-7 replaced their dash 6 predecessors, delivering superior performance thanks to their increased engine output (from 18 to 19kW).
Their larger bucket cylinders (from 65 to 70mm) also result in a 16 per cent increase in bucket digging force from 27.8 to 32.2kN (SK35SR-7).
In addition, the boom cylinder bore has been increased from 80 to 85mm for improved lifting capacity (SK35SR-7), while increased travel performance and an upgraded hydraulic system deliver faster combined operation. Fuel consumption has also been reduced by 25 per cent using the new ECO-mode.
The latest Series 7 versions of the excavators cater for operating weight requirements from three to four tonnes, with base machine weights ranging from 2930kg to 3890kg.
Importantly, the zero tailswing design makes them ideal for operating in limited space, and a versatile machine for a variety of applications.
The machines’ quick hitch piping has also been extended by 200mm, with standard tilt lines on SK30SR-7 and SK35SR-7 models adding to the versatility of the machine by allowing easy installation of tilt hitches and multi-function hydraulic attachments.
Operator comfort and safety was key to the development of the new Series 7 minis. The new machines follow Kobelco’s Performance x Design concept, which includes a newly designed cabin interior, to make long operating hours more comfortable.
The cab comes with a standard Bluetooth integrated stereo system, which allows audio to be streamed. A standard 12V port and Aux jack is provided. AM/FM radio and hands- free telephone functionality also come as standard, while the wider wrist rests and ergonomic levers reduce operator fatigue.
The Grammer mechanical suspension and reclining seat on cabin models, coupled with powerful air conditioning have also been designed to make the operator feel like they are controlling a much larger machine.
The standard colour display provides important information including operating history, maintenance cycle, and fuel and water temperature gauges.
Hydraulic Flow Adjustment (HFA) comes as standard in all proportional hand control models, and the hydraulic oil-flow to the attachments can be adjusted via the same colour display. To reduce downtime for maintenance, the travel levers are now removable, which improves accessibility to the main control valve.
To improve visibility on the jobsite, new Series 7 minis have been equipped with two bright LED work lights. Additional working lights can also be installed to the back of the cabin, if required. LED backlighting on switches and dials is also standard to improve visibility.
Kobelco’s short radius excavators also benefit from a proprietary Integrated Noise and Dust Reduction System, which provides ultra-low onsite noise operation, ideal for urban worksites, and removes dust from the air intake. It also enhances serviceability by allowing easy access to the air filter, which can be easily removed and cleaned without the use of tools, for easy visual inspection and cleaning.
The models are available with a canopy or an air-conditioned cabin and are available now around Australia.
To locate your local authorised Kobelco dealer or to learn more about Kobelco excavators, please visit www.kobelco.com.au.