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Hitachi's full-size next generation excavators - Equipment Journal

Engineered to tackle a wide range of tasks on jobsites, Hitachi Construction Machinery Americas has introduced the ZX130-7 and ZX160LC-7 full-size excavators.

The new next generation excavators incorporate Hitachi’s latest comfort enhancements, hydraulic system refinements and changes to simplify serviceability. Excavator DRBI

Hitachi's full-size next generation excavators - Equipment Journal

“The ZX130-7 and ZX160LC-7 feature a number of improvements and updates to provide more productivity, performance, operator comfort and fuel efficiency,” said Patrick Baker, Product Manager for medium and large excavators at Hitachi Construction Machinery Americas Inc.

The 14,000-kg ZX130-7 offers a maximum dig depth of 6.03 metres and a bucket breakout force of 23,380 pounds. 

The ZX160LC-7 has an operating weight of 17,900 kg, a maximum dig depth of 6.49 metres and a bucket breakout force of 25,179 pounds.

The ZX130-7 uses a 100 hp Isuzu engine. A Yanmar engine powers the ZX160LC-7, producing 132 hp. It features economy, power and high-power modes to match available power to the working conditions.

An auto idle system with auto shut-down control helps to conserve fuel.

The HIOS IV hydraulic system improves fuel efficiency by minimizing hydraulic loss during operation. It ensures a responsive boom, arm and bucket with smooth control. Both excavators feature adjustable attachment, arm and swing priority through the monitor to match machine performance with the attachment.

The new 20 cm LCD, anti-glare monitor includes an attachment pre-set system, allowing operators to pre-set flow rates and pressures for up to 16 attachments.

“A larger cab with ergonomic controls on the ZX130-7 and ZX160LC-7 excavators addresses customer demand for a comfortable operator environment. This results in increased productivity through reduced operator fatigue,” Baker said.

The larger cab includes a dual adjustable seat and console that allows operators to find the perfect operating position to remain comfortable for long working days in the seat. Low-effort pilot controls reduce operator strain and enhance controllability. For convenience, switches have been collectively installed on the right side with easy access to those frequently used.

The cab features four fluid-filled elastic mounts that reduce vibration when travelling. The monitor also includes Bluetooth radio so operators can remain hands free and focused on the task. 

For improved visibility, the excavators are equipped with Hitachi’s Aerial Angle peripheral vision camera system. The system provides a wide 270-degree bird’s-eye view of the machine’s immediate environment. The operator can select five different Aerial Angle viewing screens on the monitor. This allows the preferred viewing position for enhanced safety and productivity. 

A rear-view camera allows the operator to see the area directly below the counterweight.

The Hitachi ZAXIS-7 excavators feature enhancements to critical components such as the undercarriage and boom. On the undercarriage, an anti-mud-compaction lower roller design helps prevent mud from entering and damaging the oil seals. The upper and lower rollers also feature improved idler sealing.

As well, the ZAXIS-7 excavators feature a strengthened boom end and foot. For durability, the bushings are installed in the brackets at the boom end and the boom foot.

“Ease of service was a major consideration when updating the ZX130-7 and ZX160LC-7 excavators. This saves operators time and helps ensure maximum uptime,” Baker said.

For maintenance, wide-open engine covers provide access, while filters are within easy reach and take minutes to maintain. 

A spin-on type fuel filter prevents dust from entering the fuel circuit during maintenance. An inner element of the engine air filter protects the engine from dust ingress while cleaning the outer element. 

The air conditioner is also protected from dust with an internal filter with a seal that prevents intrusion.

Tracking maintenance is simplified with the multi-functional monitor. It indicates pre-set maintenance intervals each time the key is turned on. Engine oil and coolant levels can be conveniently checked right from the operator’s seat.

ConSite remotely monitors operational status and alerts owners and operators to upcoming maintenance needs.

A dealer-installed option on the ZX130-7 and ZX160LC-7 is ConSite OIL, which monitors engine and hydraulic oil conditions to proactively catch issues before any fault codes are triggered in the machine. This helps drive uptime by catching oil degradation before damage to critical systems can occur. 

Hitachi's full-size next generation excavators - Equipment Journal

Excavator PGW ConSite Air allows the excavator to be diagnosed and updated remotely. The servicing dealer can remotely diagnose issues that may arise, leading to increased uptime.