Bobcat has announced the launch of its new R-Series of mini-excavators with a range of five compact excavator models in from 2-4t in capacity.
The models – the E26, E27z, E27, E34 and E35z – offer a best-in-class mix of high digging forces, stability and smooth controllability of working functions complemented by low weights for easy transportation, said a statement from the compact equipment specialist, adding that new design features will make the R-Series unique on the market.
The new excavators utilise recently developed flexible machine platforms that allow different configurations of models and specifications to suit a wide range of applications and customer needs. According to Bobcat, the development team for the new machines has ensured enhanced operator comfort and functionality, and the best fit for key applications.
Jarry Fiser, product line director for Bobcat mini-excavators in Europe, the Middle East and Africa, said: “The current Bobcat compact excavator line-up has been one of the most respected products in the industry. Now backed by nearly five years of development work, we are raising the bar even further and we are confident that we are now offering the best-in-class machines available.”
The new 2-4t compact excavator range has been designed by the Bobcat European Innovation Centre. It features a completely new cab being introduced throughout the whole of the R-Series range with a larger operator space and premium interior to deliver what the manufacturer claims is the best-in-class comfort with improved entry/exit thanks to new ergonomic 3D handles and a wider door. The new cab also features significantly larger windows and narrower pillars for greater all-around visibility.
Operators benefit from new joysticks and new optimised metal travel pedals. The minimal effort joysticks offer enhanced controllability and smoothness of working functions. The operator also benefits from up to five independent auxiliary hydraulic circuits and a new industry unique ‘Selectable Auxiliary Control’ (SAC) system for customisable joystick controls. Bobcat says the SAC enables the operator to select/switch the control pattern for the auxiliary lines, which allows them to work with the latest attachments.
Another unique feature is the Cylinder-Inside-Boom (CIB) design concept which provides strong protection for the boom cylinder as part of a reinforced workgroup designed to minimise free play and improve durability, said the manufacturer. The excavators can also be equipped with a deluxe control panel display offering extra information for increased troubleshooting and additional functionality of the new optional selectable auxiliary control system (SAC).
Clive Kilford, R-Series programme manager, said: “Creating something better than the current series was the real challenge as it has proved to be one of the industry’s best. Yet by looking at every part we implemented over a hundred improvements – always having the operator in mind.”
The new E26 excavator has a transport weight reduced by 100kg but increased over-the-side lifting capacity. The E27z model further enhances performance characteristics of Bobcat’s current E26 machine, with the largest cab for this size of machine on the market. A Zero House Swing (ZHS) machine even with the optional heavy counterweight, the E27z offers high flexibility of movements when working close to walls, coupled with a 360-degree stability and a low weight for easy transportation. With the optional long arm and a premium cab, Bobcat claims the E27z offers the digging output and operator comfort of much larger excavators, making it a machine of choice for urban operating construction companies.
The new conventional swing E27 offers 280mm of tail overhang even with the optional heavy counterweight, which allows the machine to be operated in confined spaces. The E34 is a new generation 3.4t conventional model offering high stability coupled with performance and enhanced controllability. It features a roomy premium cab with optional powerful air conditioning to ensure an ideal operator environment in all weather conditions.
The E35z is a 3.5t machine providing a mix of compactness, a large operating range for the workgroup, especially with an optional long arm, enhanced stability with two available counterweight options, and a large operator area. The E34 and E35z are also the only machines in their class available with the optional automatic (hydraulic) track tensioning feature, which further minimises the need for maintenance and the risk of de-tracking, according to Bobcat.
Among other features new blade designs offers more robustness and enhanced self-cleaning ability, and a redesigned boom cylinder guard is complemented by increased protection of hoses, pipes and valves on the workgroup. Other options include LED lights and an easy to install beacon. For safer transport, four additional tie-down points have been added on the upper structure.
To easily and safely connect attachments, Bobcat offers multiple mechanical or hydraulic coupler systems. Lehnhoff type couplers will now be available with factory installed tilting adapters controlled by a dedicated AUX4 circuit. A bucket diverter valve kit (AUX3) is also available to operate a clam shell bucket attachment.
“This is a very exciting time for everybody in Bobcat involved in the development of the R-Series mini-excavators. Our engineers and product experts have worked closely together with our salesforce and selected dealers to ensure the new products meet the specific requirements of the very demanding customer base,” said Fiser.
