Hitachi Construction Machinery Americas has launched the ZAXIS-7 compact excavators to complete tasks on today’s urban jobsites. An ultra-short-tail swing radius on the ZX75US-7 allows access to confined spaces while an ultra-short-tail swing radius with swing boom model ZX85USB-7 digs next to walls and guard rails.
Power is provided by turbocharged Yanmar diesel engines. Power and economy work modes tailor the machine’s performance to the task. The power mode provides higher engine speeds when extra horsepower is needed, while the economy mode reduces engine speed when performing normal work. This results in low noise and decreased fuel consumption.
A standard auto idle system automatically reduces the engine to idling speed when all control levers are left in neutral for longer than four seconds. When the levers are moved again, the engine speed immediately resumes to the pre-selected engine speed. This reduces noise and exhaust emissions.
Attachments
Compact excavators are commonly used as tool carriers with a wide range of attachments. An optional attachment replacement support system simplifies swapping work tools. Attachment flow settings can be adjusted from the monitor and the operator can name and store up to 12 settings. An auxiliary function lever (AFL) is available with an analog switch, trigger switch and horn for running attachments such as a breaker or an attachment with swing.
An additional counterweight can be selected for stability in certain applications.
A standard blade float feature allows the blade’s own weight to smoothly grade with simple control-lever operation. There is also an optional angle blade with blade float.
Cab Features
Cab space has been enlarged versus the previous generation. There is more head clearance when opening the front window. A low cabin floor height facilitates access to the machine.
The Aerial Angle peripheral vision camera system provides a wide 270-degree bird’s-eye view of the machine’s immediate environment. The operator can select from five views on the monitor. A camera allows the operator to see the area right below the counterweight.
An air suspension seat provides comfort while the pad-style armrests can be adjusted for height and angle without tools. Switch positions and the keypad with jog control have been relocated. An 8-in. (20.32-cm) antiglare LCD monitor provides visibility even in bright surroundings. The monitor also controls the Bluetooth radio. The operator can listen to music and make hands-free calls from the cab.
A 5-volt USB power supply allows the operator to charge their smartphone or portable audio device. A hot and cold storage box routes air from the air conditioner to store up to a 16-oz. (500-ml) bottle.
Standard LED work lights provide visibility in challenging conditions. The work lights continue to light up for 30 seconds after the power is turned off for safety when exiting the cab at night.
Durability
The ZAXIS-7 series features enhancements to foundational components such as the arm and boom. Tighter pinhole tolerances in the boom and arm help minimize side wobble.
A V-shaped cylinder guard helps protect the boom cylinder from objects that may fall from the bucket. To prevent damage to the upper structure, a D-section frame skirt and heavy-duty plate support upward impact resistance. The side plate of the blade is designed to withstand external shocks.
Maintenance
A wide opening rear engine cover allows maintenance access. The filters and fuel and water separator are grouped in the pump room for ground level inspection and replacement. Features such as remote swing-circle lubrication simplify daily maintenance.
Routine checks, such as engine oil level, are accomplished from ground level and all service points are within reach through the access panels. The operator is alerted of hydraulic oil and fuel filter replacement timing through the multifunction monitor. An inner element of the engine air filter protects the engine from dust ingress while cleaning the outer element.
ConSite telematics remotely monitors operational status and alerts owners and operators to upcoming maintenance needs. A new optional feature, ConSite OIL, monitors engine and hydraulic oil conditions to detect issues before fault codes are triggered in the machine. This helps catch oil degradation before damage to critical systems occur.
ConSite Air allows the excavator to be diagnosed remotely. It also allows remote updates of the software. The servicing dealer can remotely diagnose issues that may arise. The ConSite response team is on standby to resolve issues as they emerge.
