Earth-moving machinery has always been considered one of the most complex types of construction vehicles in terms of construction. This is due to the fact that the mechanisms should not only provide traction for the movement of the main platform, but also transmit it to the working bodies. Against this background, an excavator on wheels is especially noteworthy, in which high power and considerable dynamic indicators should be combined. In any case, such vehicles surpass tracked counterparts in speed and maneuverability. True, not without drawbacks. The fact is that a wheeled excavator has limitations on operation on marshy terrain and problem soil with insufficient bearing capacity.
In addition, models on wheels often have less high technical characteristics - this, by the way, is observed both in carrying capacity, and in the power potential of the engine, and in the depth of digging. However, the market offers various options for this technique, a review of which will make the right choice.
Models from Komatsu
To date, the Japanese brand presents three options for the sixth generation of its wheeled excavators. The new technology is equipped with an EMMS system, which involves three operating modes. In particular, a wheeled excavator will be able to operate with the expectation of working with increased effort, in an economical mode, and also in the format of a hydraulic hammer. There is an additional mode, providing a lifting function. For user convenience, all information about the performance of the machine is displayed on the LCD screen.
There are in the Komatsu line and models of the seventh generation. These are modifications equipped with diesel engines with a capacity of 118 kW and a volume of 6 liters. A feature of this technique is its focus on the Russian climate. For example, some spare parts for Komatsu excavators are specifically designed for operation in harsh conditions - this, in particular, applies to fuel system elements with a water separator. Also included as standard is an air filter and air conditioning that maintains optimal pressure in the cab. The gearbox serves three operating modes, including slow, standard and transport, allowing vehicles to move at speeds up to 35 km / h.
JCB Excavators
The JCB manufacturer also does not disregard this segment, actively developing the model line. In recent years, the company has modernized existing models, including the JS200W and JS1160W, as well as introduced new ones - JS175W and JS145W. Today, the JCB wheeled excavator is a vehicle equipped with AMS electronic controls, comfortable cabs with an FOPS protection system, and Isuzu diesel units with a capacity of up to 102 kW.
The Power Shift dual-band gearbox allows the excavator to travel at speeds of around 30 km / h. A slow speed at 3.8 km / h is also available. The company has provided a wide range of devices and mechanisms as functional equipment. In particular, articulated or monoblock booms, three types of handles, different versions of buckets, hydraulic hammers, grabs and demolition units are offered. There is usually no problem with JCB equipment maintenance, but along with updating the models, the company has provided more reliable spare parts for wheeled excavators. This applies to glow plugs, rechargeable batteries, filters of the Plexus hydraulic system , as well as other parts and components.
Hyundai Models
In the case of Hyundai, you should immediately focus on the Robex excavator line. In just 5 years, the company has grown to the production of fourth-generation machines, which indicates the introduction of the latest developments. It’s worth starting with the engines that are supplied with the Hyundai excavator in different versions. The manufacturer equips the equipment with two diesel units - Cummins B and Mitsubishi units. The control system is implemented by the SARO complex, which involves three modes. By the way, the user can save control settings in the system. Also at the disposal of the operator appeared modern options. This, for example, the possibility of digging efforts by 10% and an instant drop in speed.
The approach of Japanese developers to the functional support of the equipment is also interesting. Outriggers and dumps are available for any version. Monoblock and articulated booms at the same time can only get a Hyundai excavator in the seventh generation. For other versions, several handles and buckets are available - the exact amount depends on the modification.
Hitachi Models
Manufacturer Hitachi offers four versions, among which representatives of the ZAXIS line. The models of this company have long been known to the European and domestic markets, but there are also innovations added during the latest restyling. For example, modern modifications are distinguished by a reinforced swivel base and a cab with a more robust design. The creators are also working to increase the operational resource of the friction mechanisms. So, in the latest modification, the Hitachi full-wheel wheeled excavator is able to work up to 500 hours without service. The differences between the models include the use of polymer gaskets, which are used in the brackets for fixing the boom to the base. As for the power filling, Isuzu diesel engines are used. For ease of maintenance, the designers made the oil filter with water separator more affordable.
Volvo Excavators
The Volvo company also pays a lot of attention to the production of special equipment. Not so long ago, the manufacturer arranged the supply of wheeled excavators with a gross weight of 14 to 20 tons. The manufacturer supplies each model with its own diesel engines, which are distinguished by reliability and economy. Also, the Volvo wheeled excavator has a gearbox provided with enhanced protection and fuses that do not allow you to switch sharply from a high speed range to a lower one. By the way, the minimum speed limit is up to 3 km / h. If the equipment moves on a slope, then the hydraulic transmission motor will perform the function of a retarder.
Mini models of wheeled excavators
Almost all manufacturers of special construction equipment produce compact and maneuverable mini-excavators, which are not so high performance, but are indispensable in tight operating conditions. Today this category is represented by small-sized models weighing no more than 12 tons. On average, the weight of such a machine is 8 tons.
In terms of functionality, such models also have something to boast about. The equipment is equipped with rammers, hydraulic hammers, mechanical grippers, pincers, leveling boards and clamshell buckets. Nevertheless, mini-excavators still provide a fairly weak effort in the digging process compared to full-size counterparts.
What characteristics are important when choosing?
As practice shows, pay attention to any trifle in the process of choosing an excavator. This applies to the size of the equipment, and to the functional content, and to the controls. Much also depends on the engine power and the speed at which the equipment moves. Manufacturers think through all the nuances and strive to offer a wheeled excavator in several versions. Thus, the consumer has the opportunity to provide for operation on problem soil and work with heavy material, and at the same time not to forget about the area of the working area.
Conclusion
The acquisition of special equipment is a very expensive operation, which implies even greater responsibility in the selection process. Today the market offers wheeled excavators, prices for which vary from 1 to 5 million rubles. Of course, there are options that stand out from this range, but most high-quality models are in its framework. The initial segment is quite naturally represented by mini-excavators, and then full-size versions in different trim levels follow.