01 March 2007
New Holland, a global, full-line construction equipment brand, has recently introduced the E215B, the first of its latest generation of the Tier III, B-Series crawler excavators which have been designed with increased productivity and lower costs of ownership in mind.
“Power comes through the latest generation of CNH 6.7-litre, six-cylinder engine which can develop 118 kW at 2,000 rpm. This larger engine – replacing the previous 5.9-litre model – works at lower revolutions for reduced noise, a longer life span and increased reliability,” says a spokesperson for the company. “Two larger displacement pumps (110 cc), with a higher flow (220 l/min), which work at reduced revolutions of 2000 rpm compared the previous 2150 rpm, also contribute towards noise reduction, longer lifespan, higher reliability and higher performance.”
The re-designed boom and dipper sticks, although lighter, retain the same heavy-duty capability and have been designed for increased lift capacity, ensuring increased productivity. Buckets are interchangeable with the current series, so the customer benefits from any investment he has already made, he says. A new, external bushing at the end of the dipper, made from anti-wear steel, increases durability, thereby reducing costs.
Elaborating on the features of the new excavators, he says: “Machine stability – already a strong point on the previous model – has been further increased with a longer undercarriage (from 3,373 mm to 3,660 mm) on the EL, L and LC models. Performance is further enhanced, thanks to a new hydraulic system featuring new kinematics, new cylinders that have a smaller bore but longer stroke, higher oil flow and higher hydraulic efficiency, thanks to larger return ports. The result is higher productivity and improved fuel economy.
New hydraulic functions enable oil flow to be selected in 10-litre steps and oil pressure in 10 bar steps. Flow and pressure on the auxiliary line can be easily and safely adjusted on the operator’s in-cab monitor. This newly-designed performance monitor, featuring a larger and more legible display, plus a backlight, is both easier to read and use as it features new software and working modes.
“This multi-function monitor enables easy selection of the work mode but also displays essential maintenance information, incorporates a systems warning and memorises errors monitored by the auto-diagnosis system. The operator can focus on the task in hand in the full knowledge that the system is protecting the machine.”
These new models will feature a rear view camera to increase job site safety. The rear view will be displayed on a dedicated monitor mounted on the front right post, in an ergonomic and easy-to-check position. A dedicated separate monitor allows the operator to control the main parameters whenever he needs to.
“Operator comfort guarantees higher productivity and the new cab delivers just that,” the spokesman continues. “A new seat features arm rests integrated into the side console, providing the ideal ergonomic position for the operator’s arms when controlling the joysticks. The operator further benefits from the new, more ergonomic positioning of switches and controls to the right-hand side and an easier to access the ignition key.”
A new, single-handle opening system and opening mechanism makes the front screen easier to open whilst also making it lighter. A new foot pedal shape, with more space between the pedals and the seat support, further improves operator comfort and operation, and a new floor mat design makes cab cleaning that much easier.
In addition, changes in the servicing area ensure that servicing and routine maintenance is quicker and easier. Relays and fuse boxes are now situated behind the operator’s seat, so are easier to access and also protected from dust and water. A new parallel layout for the radiator, oil cooler and inter-cooler increases cooling efficiency and dramatically reduces maintenance costs whilst also providing much easier access. Access, including that to the air-conditioning filter. The batteries are now re-positioned in the same compartment as the radiator and coolers, freeing up more space for tools.
“A further contributor to reduced maintenance costs is the remote location for the diesel-water separator, engine oil filter – now mounted in a vertical position to avoid spillage – and a new fuel filter. There is also a new fuel pump, which automatically shuts off when the tank is full. Boom maintenance is improved with a new, centralised lubrication system, enabling easy greasing of all wear points from ground level. Lastly, a larger tool-box, mounted on the front right-hand side of the machine, makes it easier to store larger items,” concludes the spokesman.