Kobelco Construction Machinery has announced the launch of its all new SK260LC-11 excavator. With this next-gen -11 machine, the company aims to bring superior performance, greater efficiency, more productivity and follows the Kobelco “performance by design” concept.
Equipped with a new Tier IV Final Yanmar engine, the new SK260LC-11 delivers 194 net hp and 577 lb of torque at 1,500 rpm, which is a 23% increase in torque vs the previous model. Also, it boasts 42,000 lb of bucket digging force, 63,300 lb of swing torque and 55,600 lb of drawbar pulling force. According to Kobelco, the new -11 series offers more standard features and overall added value than previous models.
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Smooth and steady operation while moving heavy objects across the jobsite is assured through the ‘Independent Travel’ function, which dedicates one hydraulic pump to travel and one to the attachment on a continuous basis. The machine’s 60,200 lb operating weight provides increased stability and superior lifting capacity.
Also, like most Kobelco heavy excavators, the SK260LC-11 has three work modes: Eco, S and H modes, for balancing between high performance, economy and low fuel consumption. Heavy Lift and Power Boost add the power needed to get through tough conditions, and the in-cab hydraulic pressure release function allows customers to change work tools or hoses easily and safely.
The new SK260LC-11 also provides improved durability as many major components have been redesigned for improved durability and performance. For example, the machine’s side panels have been made thicker to enhance body rigidity, while the increased diameter of the bucket cylinder pin contributes to enhanced durability for using various work tools.
In terms of machine guidance, the SK260LC-11 comes with pre-installed mounting brackets for easier system installation without the need to weld and paint. These brackets are designed to adapt to multiple brands of providers for both 2D and 3D systems.
As part of Kobelco’s “performance by design” concept, also seen on the SK75/85SR-7 and SK130LC-11, the SK260LC-11’s cabin, ergonomics, and safety features are greatly enhanced.
Among the standard features is a 7-way adjustable heated air suspension seat that moves together with the armrests and hydraulic controls. According to Kobelco, this uniquely designed cabin reduces operator fatigue, provides excellent shock absorption and superior ride comfort. The operator’s pilot levers move horizontally without arching of the wrist, while also providing shorter lever strokes to deliver a swifter, more precise movement. Air conditioning and heater vents are directed towards the operator to maximize comfort. The right-side jog dial integrates multiple functions into a single user interface with the large 10-inch color monitor. The easy-to-operate menu screen facilitates reading of important information including work mode, maintenance intervals and fuel consumption, as well as providing a 270-degree view from the machine’s standard three camera system.
Also, the hydraulic flow-rate modes of the bucket, breaker, nibbler and rotating grapple are now fully adjustable by the operator through the monitor, and the mode settings for other attachments, such as a tilt rotator, can also be easily added or changed.
In addition, all internal switches and dials in the cabin have LED backlighting to provide a brighter, clearer view in the dark. The cabin is also equipped with a FM/AM, auxiliary port, Bluetooth, hands-free telephone radio, smartphone holder, USB charger and a 12V power outlet.
A standard radiator clean-out screen that prevents larger material from clogging the radiator cooling fins and can be easily removed for cleaning. A newly structured hydraulic oil filter prevents foreign matter from entering the oil tank during maintenance, and all filters are easy to access from ground level.
For safety, a heavy-duty Level II overhead top guard is provided as standard and can be tilted open for easy window cleaning. Additionally, rear swing flashers and rear work lights, a Kobelco USA exclusive, are integrated into the counterweight for added safety on busy jobsites. Seven LED lights—2 on boom, 2 on top front of the cab, 1 on right side body, and 2 facing rear on the counterweight—are also now standard to provide additional visibility in low light conditions.
Kobelco claims that monitoring the SK260LC-11’s work status remotely has never been easier. With the Kobelco Monitoring Excavator System (KOMEXS), the machine’s operational information, such as hours, fuel consumption and maintenance status, can be obtained remotely.
Also, for added security, an engine start alarm, e-fence, and current/past location history are also included.
Finally, Kobelco offers a standard 4 year/4,000 hr full machine warranty for the SK260LC-11, with KOMEXS included.
