VIDEO: Hitachi wheel loaders deliver

Hitachi Construction Machinery Australia's (HCA) new ZW-5 range of wheel loaders carries more models and features a swag of upgrades to offer operators increased productivity and comfort, the company says.

Three new models now sit at the top of the range, with the biggest model – the ZW550-5 – offering a power output of 532hp. Its operating weight is 47 tonnes and it features a bucket capacity of up to 7.2 cubic metres.

Other new models in the range are the ZW370-5 (387hp, 34 tonnes, up to 6.2 cubic metres) and ZW330-5 (286hp, 27 tonnes, up to 5.0 cubic metres).

"The addition of these larger models makes our industry-leading wheel loader design available to a new range of customers in different applications," says HCA General Manager for Construction & Forestry Sales, Frank Gili.

"For customers in the quarry and mining sectors where work happens around the clock, a high level of reliability and ease of use is essential."

The models offer two work modes. In standard mode, the engine revs are controlled for smooth operation in normal conditions, while power mode offers extra traction for heavy digging or travelling uphill.

"A new hydraulic circuit allows for combined lift arm and bucket operation during loading and prioritises bucket use for dumping, while an anti-drift valve prevents internal oil leakage that can cause creeping of the lift arm," says HCA National Product Manager for Wheel Loader & Excavators, Shannon Bethe.

"The result is a precise, economical machine."

All units in the ZW-5 range feature engines that meet US EPA Tier 4 Interim and EU Stage IIIB emission regulations, and are therefore more fuel efficient than previous models, HCA says.

The wheel loaders use an automotive-style planetary automatic transmission for smooth shifting while a standard lock-up torque converter provides improved fuel economy and performance during travel, HCA says.

"The auto-style transmission makes these wheel loaders simpler to operate," says Bethe.

"Standard traction control and torque proportioning differentials get the power to the ground efficiently, reducing wheel spin and extending tyre life."

Operator comfort has also been enhanced with the addition of new features including automatic ride control, a sloped ladder with wide steps for ease of access, double-filtered air conditioning and a high level of sound insulation.

"These features ensure a quiet, comfortable working environment for the operator, and we've also included plenty of storage space, including a cool box for lunch and drinks," adds Bethe.

"The air suspension seat has adjustable lumbar support and a high level of travel to comfortably accommodate even the tallest operators and the wrist and arm rests and side console are all adjustable."

Pillarless front windows and a rear view camera provide all-round visibility. Maintenance points on the machines are situated at ground level for easy daily servicing.

Six updated models spanning the ZW140-5, ZW150-5, ZW180-5, ZW220-5, ZW250-5 and ZW310-5 round out the ZW-5 range.

The two smallest models have hydrostatic transmissions as well as the operating modes and cab improvements of the larger models.