Hitachi Construction Machinery Americas has recently expanded its ZAXIS-7 line of medium and large excavators with the introduction of six new models, namely the ZX250LC-7, ZX300LC-7, ZX350LC-7, ZX490LC-7, ZX690LC-7, and ZX890LC-7.

Ranging in operating weight from 26,500 kg to 87,500 kg, these excavators have been integrated with upgraded features aimed at enhancing comfort, visibility, fuel efficiency, durability, and productivity.

Patrick Baker, the Product Manager for medium and large excavators at Hitachi Construction Machinery Americas, emphasised the customer-centric approach behind the development of the new ZX-7 generation. According to Baker, these excavators have been meticulously engineered to meet and exceed the high standards set by customers, offering straightforward operation, effectiveness, and remarkable productivity while ensuring an exceptionally high level of operator comfort

Comfort has been given utmost priority in the redesign of the operator station for the ZAXIS-7 excavators. The cab has been enlarged to provide a more spacious environment with reduced vibration and noise levels, thus significantly improving the overall operating experience and mitigating operator fatigue. Additionally, the cab features increased head clearance and legroom, complemented by a one-touch adjustable air suspension seat synchronised to move with the console for simplified adjustments. The ergonomic layout of the console includes intuitive controls, enhancing operator convenience, and maximising visibility, particularly on the right side of the cab.

Hitachi has also addressed in-cab noise levels by enhancing the thickness of the rear glass and adding a seal between the cab and floor plate to improve airtightness. Furthermore, the company has incorporated four fluid-filled elastic cab mounts to reduce vibration during travel, thereby contributing to a more comfortable working environment.

In terms of visibility, Hitachi has equipped the ZX-7 excavators with its Angle peripheral vision camera system, offering five different camera views on a 20-cm anti-glare LCD monitor from inside the cab. This includes a wide 270-degree bird’s-eye view of the machine’s immediate environment, allowing operators to select the most suitable view for any given situation. Additionally, a rearview camera enables operators to monitor the area below the counterweight, further enhancing operational safety.

The hydraulic systems of the excavators have also undergone advancements, with models ranging from the ZX130-7 through ZX890LC-7 featuring TRIAS III, TRIAS II, or HIOS V hydraulic system solutions tailored to match the excavator’s size and application. These next-generation hydraulic systems, combined with reliable Isuzu engines, deliver increased productivity and reduced fuel consumption, ensuring optimal performance even in the most challenging working conditions. Operators have the flexibility to select their preferred ISO or SAE control pattern through a standard two-way pattern change valve on select models.

Standard auxiliary piping and relief valves on applicable models improve operation and safeguard the machines when running breaker/hammer attachments, while heavy-duty boom and stick configurations are designed to withstand tough working conditions. Undercarriage components have been reinforced, featuring an anti-mud-compaction lower roller design to prevent damage to oil seals, improved idler sealing, and a track undercover to protect the joint from potential damage.

Maintenance has been simplified through design enhancements, with a multifunctional monitor providing preset maintenance intervals upon startup. Engine oil and coolant levels can be conveniently checked from the operator’s seat. Moreover, critical components are protected from environmental factors, with features such as an inner element engine air filter and a sealed internal filter for the air conditioner unit.

Hitachi’s ConSite telematics system allows for remote monitoring of machine health, enhancing uptime by proactively identifying maintenance needs. ConSite OIL, a standard feature, monitors engine and hydraulic oil conditions to prevent potential issues before they escalate, thereby minimising downtime and optimising operational efficiency. The in-cab monitor controls the Bluetooth radio for convenient communication, while long-lasting LED lights and low-effort pilot controls further contribute to operator comfort and convenience.

In conclusion, Hitachi Construction Machinery Americas’ introduction of the new ZX-7 excavator lineup represents a significant advancement in the medium and large excavator segment, offering a blend of innovative features, enhanced comfort, and superior performance to meet the evolving needs of customers in the construction industry.