JCB Construction Equipment Australia (CEA) has announced the arrival of its innovative Hydradig compact wheeled excavator which has been designed for digging, lifting and tool carrying in urban areas.
According to JCB CEA, the Hydradig addresses several key challenges facing today's construction industry including visibility, stability, manoeuvrability, mobility and serviceability.
"The Hyrdadig is a machine that will offer the best results on site, and in the safest and most productive manner," says JCB CEA National Product Manager for Hydradig, Deon Cope.
"With jobsites becoming increasingly congested, the Hydradig offers a new solution that rethinks machine design conventions."
The Hydradig has been designed with visibility at the top of mind, offering panoramic views from within the cab and the ability to see all four tyres from the operating seat.
"The driveline is mounted in the lower chassis and there are no engine covers or fluid tanks so the Hydradig is built with 360 degrees visibility," Cope says.
"As the engine is no longer mounted in the upper bodywork, there is no requirement for additional handrails, mirrors or a rear-view camera."
He says the Hydradig features a low centre of gravity that allows stable lifting and excellent travel speeds; as well as the shortest tailswing on the market.
"For mobility, the Hydradig is able to travel up to 40km/h, with stepless hydrostatic drive to all four wheels, and an extended all-wheel steer chassis," Cope says.
The Hydradig comes with three steering modes as standard – two-wheel steer, four-wheel steer and crab steering. A reverse steer function is also available as an option.
"The steering options available on the Hydradig make it a great machine for those confined workspaces in metro jobsites, and the stepless hydrostatic transmission ensures maximum traction and manoeuvrability on tough terrains," Cope explains.
A wide-opening steel canopy on the side of the Hydradig provides ground-level access to the JCB Ecomax engine and cooling pack for servicing.
The Hydradig also comes with JCB’s LiveLink telematic system that allows operators to monitor fuel use and access operating data remotely.
Find out more about the JCB Hydradig, at jcbcea.com.au/hydradig