Mid-range Kobelco digger hits market

Kobelco Construction Machinery Australia has released the SK300-LC 30-tonne excavator following calls from industry for an efficient, heavy excavator in this class.

It is the latest model to be released as part of Kobelco's Generation 10 series, which had a staggered release in Australia since early 2016.

According to Kobelco General Manager - Sales & Service, Doug McQuinn, the SK300-LC hits the spot for those "wanting something big, but not too big".

"With the launch of this model we're addressing what the industry asked for – a tough, reliable, performance-driven 30-tonne machine. That's what we're delivering," he says.

"Kobelco machines are engineered for maximum capacity at maximum efficiency, and the SK300-LC is no different," McQuinn says.

Kobelco's Generation 10 excavators release in 2016 signals a new era for the manufacturer, with the new range offering significant improvements and design changes over predecessor models.

Innovative engineering on the Gen 10 machines means up to 10 per cent less fuel consumption, which in turn lowers costs without compromising on power, McQuinn says.

One of the technologies used on the excavators is Kobelco's Arm Interflow System, which Kobelco says is a key contributor to the range's improved efficiency. It is a hydraulic regenerative system which enables the boom’s weight to force hydraulic fluid to the shovel arm.

This reduces the engine and hydraulic system's workload in pumping the fluid, which means lower fuel consumption.

Other features on the SK300-LC include a revised upper deck layout that is also across all the Kobelco Generation 10 excavators, which allows easy access to the engine compartment.

"There's a new compact and easily replaceable canister-type hydraulic oil return filter, and a new reinforced air-cleaner element," McQuinn says.

"These machines are designed to keep time off job-sites to a minimum while maximising the value of the machine back to business."

The new SK300-LC will be on display at Kobelco's site (site 83A) at the Diesel Dirt & Turf Expo, which will be held in Penrith, New South Wales from April 21 to 23.