Hitachi has introduced the ZW-7 generation wheel loaders with features designed for versatility and safety. The wheel loaders are equipped with large cabs with panoramic visibility to support operators on the jobsite.
“Operator comfort was a key design priority with our new wheel loaders series. A lot of work went into the cab to make it more comfortable to operate. For instance, improved sealing increases cab pressurization. This translates into a quieter cab, a more comfortable cab and a cleaner cab,” said Matt Koester, wheel loader product manager at Hitachi Construction Machinery Americas.
A standard fully adjustable heated air ride seat incorporates a seat-mounted armrest with electric-hydraulic controls and switches. The armrest and controls adjust 3.5 in. (8.9 cm) forward or reverse to accommodate operators of all sizes.
Operation
ZW-7 generation wheel loaders will range in size from 3 cu. yd. to 5.5 cu. yd. (2.3 m3 to 3.8 m3).
Most models offer either a standard-lift or high-lift configuration to meet the demands of a variety of applications. There are also models with a parallel-link front arm configuration for fork and tool carrier applications. This configuration keeps attachments parallel with the ground as the loader arms move up or down. Operators have increased control while loading or unloading items. The parallel-link arm configuration also allows visibility when using forks and other attachments.
Electric-hydraulic joystick controls reduce operator fatigue and the number of hydraulic lines in the cab.
Power is provided by Cummins engines that conform to Stage V emissions regulations. The ZX-7 generation wheel loaders feature a power up mode that increases hill-climbing performance by identifying slopes and adding power to prevent the engine speed from dropping when traveling uphill.
“The new technology on the ZX-7 generation wheel loaders allows operators to adjust machine settings for enhanced efficiency. A new sub-monitor provides a way for them to interact with this technology and select their preferred settings,” said Koester.
A standard 8-in. (20.3-cm) anti-glare LCD sub-monitor allows operators to interface with integrated machine settings, a payload weighing system, rear object detection and a rearview camera display. The information is available at a glance, without the need to dig through different display settings to find it.
The payload weighing system uploads operating information 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. The payload weighing system offers four modes — tip-off to truck, tip-off to pile, auto-add and manual-add. These modes allow the 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.
Safety
The position and design of the cab pillars, the layout of the monitor and switch panel have been updated to provide a wide field of view from the cab.
ZW-7 generation wheel loaders take visibility a step further with the Aerial Angle peripheral vision camera system. It provides a wide 270-degree bird’s-eye view of the machine’s immediate environment. Aerial Angle includes 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.
Hitachi offers an optional rear obstacle detection system. It provides visual and audible alarms based on the distance to the object. The ZX160-7 wheel loader is also available with rear object detection with automatic deceleration. Once activated, the system automatically disengages the accelerator. The hydrostatic drive pumps are de-stroked and provide deceleration until the operator acknowledges the object by diverting or applying the brakes.
A standard premium LED lighting package on all models provides jobsite illumination in low-light conditions.
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 addressed this with an intelligent automatic reversing hydraulically driven fan and wide-fin radiators which prevent clogging. Filters and access to components simplify daily maintenance.
ConSite, which remotely monitors operational status and alerts owners and operators to upcoming maintenance needs, offers a new optional add-on, ConSite Air. It allows the wheel loader to be diagnosed remotely, as well as generate remote software updates. With this solution, the servicing dealer can diagnose issues that may arise. A ConSite response team is on standby to resolve issues as they emerge.
