Hitachi has announced that select excavators are now available with factory-integrated 2D grade control and Solution Linkage 3D grade control.
The new technology increases efficiency while lowering daily operating costs by enabling operators to spend less time getting the grade right the first time.
Hitachi’s grade management technology is available on the ZX210-6, ZX210LC-6 and ZX350LC-6 in Canada and the United States.
“It’s thrilling to share this solution with our customers for increased efficiency. We know grade management technology is the future of the excavator industry, and we’re glad to provide a variety of options for our customers,” said Justin Steger, solutions marketing manager of site development and underground at Hitachi Construction and Mining Division.
With Hitachi’s grade control technology, the machine controls the boom and bucket as the operator handles the arm. Using the tech, less experienced operators are able to achieve the correct grade more efficiently while a crew member who previously had to check for the grade can now be assigned elsewhere on the job site.
Solution Linkage
Solution Linkage 3D Grade Control with Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) controls position and elevation with respect to a global reference. The 2D Grade Control manages the elevation of the cutting edge in relation to a benchmark.
The 2D Grade Control technology can also be upgraded to 3D Grade Control, through Hitachi excavator dealers.
“Our 2D Grade Control and Solution Linkage 3D Grade Control unite advanced grade technology with the smooth hydraulics and fast cycle times of Hitachi excavators,” Steger said. “It saves time and helps make good operators great.”
The grade control system includes an over-dig protection feature, and lowers the likelihood of over-excavation by preventing the machine from digging beyond a defined surface or depth. With the prevention of over digging, operators can finish jobs quickly, reduce material cost and reduce fuel costs.
Virtual Front
The Virtual Front feature hydraulically limits and automatically stops the bucket cutting edge from contacting the front of the machine at a selectable distance. As well, operators can set virtual boundaries helping prevent damage when working around jobsite obstacles. Virtual Ceiling, Virtual Floor, Virtual Swing and Virtual Wall features provide visual and audible alerts to the operator as the machine approaches an adjustable set point, allowing operators to focus on productivity.
Hitachi offers customers four options for grade management technology: 2D grade guidance, 3D grade guidance, 2D grade control and Solution Linkage 3D grade control.
Hitachi’s integrated grade management technology arrives ready to work thanks to factory installation and calibration. The systems are also fully supported by Hitachi excavator dealers. Machine integration helps ensure key components such as sensors and harnesses are protected. System data from all options works with ZXLink for analysis, so the machine’s health can be monitored to keep projects on track.