JCB expand Auto excavator range
At Intermat 2006, JCB unveiled eight new additions to their Auto range of new-generation excavators. The first JCB Auto tracked excavators were launched in 2003, boasting modern styling, more power, better performance, greater efficiency and lower operating costs. Since then the company has introduced the same design characteristics across its tracked machine line-up.
Strengthening JCB’s presence in the key sectors spanning 11–33 tonnes, the new models in the Auto range comprise: the 33-tonne JS330 Auto; 29-tonne JS290 Auto; 23-tonne JZ235 Auto; 19.6-tonne JS190 Auto; 14.5-tonne JS145LC Auto; 12.7-tonne JS130LC Auto; and 11.5-tonne JS115 Auto crawler excavator; and the 17-tonne JS175W Auto wheeled excavator.
Of particular interest to the extractive industries is the JS330 Auto, which is targeted at the global mining, quarrying, earthmoving, demolition and construction markets. In line with latest legislation, this 33-tonne machine is powered by a Tier 3-compliant, 212kW Isuzu engine that delivers low noise and emission levels and 14% more power than its predecessor.
The engine is fitted with a new speed-sensing system which recognizes hydraulic requirements when working and automatically adjusts the engine and hydraulic horsepower accordingly to prevent ‘lugging down’ of the engine when under load. The JS330 also has an electronically controlled cooling fan which reduces noise and improves performance by maintaining the optimum working temperature irrespective of the ambient temperature.
The new system ensures that, even during heavy digging, the engine responds instantly to changes in the hydraulics and runs at the optimum speed for the task, resulting in greater responsiveness and quicker cycle times.
The machine features ground-level servicing for all daily checks including electronic oil level monitoring, which eradicates the need to climb on to the upper structure. In common with other JCB Auto models, the JS330’s oil- and water-cooling packages are positioned side-by-side, reducing clogging by dust and dirt and presenting one surface which can be easily cleaned.
The new JS330 model also features the spacious cab which spans the JCB Auto range. All controls are positioned within 180º of the operator, eliminating the need to twist around in the cab. In-cab noise levels have also been reduced.
The combination of a redesigned component layout and the adoption of modern styling has resulted in a low-level superstructure and the bonnet height being reduced by a third. These changes, and the cab’s increased glass area, offer significantly improved visibility to the rear of the machine for greater on-site safety and accuracy of operation.
