The 4-cu.-yd. Hitachi ZW220-7 wheel loader is a loading tool available in both standard and high-lift arm configurations. It features 41,035-lbs. (18,613-kg) of operating weight and is powered by a 210-hp (157 kW) Cummins engine. Power is transferred to the ground through a five-speed transmission and limited slip differentials for traction.
“The next-generation ZW-7 wheel loaders feature upgraded technology for advanced productivity, enhanced operator comfort, improved serviceability and new safety features with a rear collision detection system,” said Matt Koester, product manager, wheel loaders Hitachi Construction Machinery Americas Inc.
Control and Operation
Approach speed control, an auto power up function and a new payload weighing system are available on the ZW220-7. The approach speed control sets the desired speed the wheel loader will achieve as it approaches a loading point. The operator holds down the accelerator while lifting the load and the machine maintains the slower speed as it approaches the loading point. The operator taps the brake to bring the machine to a complete stop when it reaches the dump area. With approach speed control, the travel speed can be adjusted with fewer pedal operations during loading.
The auto power up function supports hill climbing performance. It identifies slopes and adds power to prevent the engine speed from dropping when travelling uphill.
New for the ZW220-7, a payload weighing system uploads information reporting performance to the ConSite telematic system. Operators can check the weight of the load in the bucket from the inside cab monitor and log the material loaded. It offers four modes — tip-off to truck, tip-off to pile, auto-add and manual-add. These modes allow the payload weighing system to manage loads according to their application. In addition, the unit is equipped with a warning function that reacts when the bucket is overloaded.
Cab and Visibility
The ZW220-7 features a large and quiet cab. This machine has seat-mounted armrest with electric hydraulic controls, ergonomically located switches and adjustable seat and mirrors. An 8-in. (20.3 cm) anti-glare LCD monitor with Bluetooth radio allows hands-free phone capability. The position and design of the cab pillars, the layout of the monitor and switch panel promote a wide field of view from the cab.
The Aerial Angle peripheral vision camera system provides a wide 270-degree bird’s-eye view of the machine’s environment. Aerial Angle provides three cameras mounted on the rear of the machine. Operators can see both the left and right sides of the machine on the monitor inside the cab, providing visibility to the sides and rear of the machine.
Safety
The wheel loader offers an optional rear obstacle detection system. It features rear object detection alerts for safety and helps reduce potential damage on the jobsite. The ZW220-7 also features emergency steering. The emergency electric pump delivers the necessary oil pressure for power steering even in the case of an emergency. This always allows normal steering, even if the engine fails.
Serviceability
An inner element of the engine air filter protects the engine from dust ingress while cleaning the outer element. The air conditioner is protected with a sealed internal filter that prevents intrusion of dust into the air conditioner unit.
Airborne debris can become an issue in many wheel loader operations, often leading to decreased cooling system performance. Hitachi Construction Machinery Americas Inc. addressed this with an intelligent automatic reversing hydraulically driven fan and wide-fin radiators which prevent clogging.
Daily maintenance has been simplified with accessible filters and components. ConSite Air is a new optional add-on that allows the wheel loader to be diagnosed remotely, as well as remote updates of the software. With this solution, the servicing dealer can remotely diagnose issues that may arise. A ConSite response team is on standby to rapidly resolve issues as they emerge.
