Hitachi launches the ZX870LCH-5 excavator

Hitachi Construction Machinery (Europe) NV (HCME) will introduce the ZX870LCH-5 large excavator at Bauma. It has been designed to operate on the most demanding job sites, such as large-scale construction projects and in busy quarries. Hitachi engineers consulted the feedback of owners and operators of Hitachi construction machinery all over Europe, in order to manufacture a new model that could deliver high productivity, balanced with sustainability, as well as durability, comfort and safety, and easy maintenance.

According to customers, one of the most important considerations for investing in a large excavator was productivity. The new ZX870LCH-5 incorporates the HIOS IIIB hydraulic system, which allows for faster operation with lower fuel consumption, and increased front speed. It has increased productivity by 6% in H/P mode (compared to the previous Zaxis model). Swing torque has also increased by 9% and the speed of light-load operations such as grading has also improved, thanks to a larger volume of hydraulic flow.

Due to the latest EU regulations on emissions standards, sustainability is another key concern for owners. The ZX870LCH-5 has a powerful Stage IIIB-compliant engine that delivers higher productivity with greater fuel efficiency. It also incorporates a muffler filter, which helps to reduce emissions by capturing air pollutants. The auto shutdown and auto idler features enhance fuel consumption and reduce noise, exhaust emissions and CO2.

Tough working conditions require a high level of durability, which is why the ZX870LCH-5 has been designed with a reinforced undercarriage, and a strengthened boom and arm. Dual fuel main filters and pre-filters are provided as standard to reduce system failures. The fuel injector is protected by diamond-like carbon (DLC) coating, which enhances its durability, and the engine has a twin-layer main fuel filter that doubles filtration performance.

The OPG (level II)-compliant cab of the new ZX870LCH-5 meets industry standards for safety and has been designed to protect the operator from falling objects on the job site. The front window, made of laminated glass, is fixed to shut out dirt and debris.

In terms of comfort, the ergonomically designed cab of the ZX870LCH-5 is ideal for operators working long hours in a quarry or construction site. The fully adjustable air suspension seat absorbs vibrations and helps to minimise fatigue. A new sliding mechanism allows it to slide back further than before, and more space below the multi-function LCD monitor creates even more leg room. Visibility and access have also been enhanced by the repositioning of the door and monitor.

To ensure an optimum performance and maximum availability, the ZX870LCH-5 has been designed with several easy maintenance solutions. The multi-function LCD monitor displays maintenance information at a glance, and it is possible to set the routine service schedule every time the ignition switch is turned on. The fuel filters and engine oil filter can be replaced easily from the excavator’s walkway. The excavator is also equipped with a solenoid fuel pump, which means there is no need to pump manually if the engine stops due to lack of fuel or while the main fuel filter is being changed.

The new Zaxis-5 range has been created at the Design Centre at Hitachi Construction Machinery Co., Ltd. (HCM) in Japan. Yusuke Kajita, General Manager of HCM's Construction Equipment Development Centre, says: “The most important consideration in the design of the Zaxis-5 models was reliability. Our customers need good machines and want to make more profit as a result of their investments.”