Hitachi deliver UK’s first ZW310-5 wheel loader

TJ Transport take delivery of three new Hitachi machines including first ZW310-5 model in the UK

HITACHI Construction Machinery (UK) have announced the sale of the UK’s first ZW310-5 wheel loader to TJ Transport, specialists in waste-management, haulage and recycling. Included in the order were also two Hitachi ZW220-5 wheel loaders.

The new ZW310-5 has been designed with a range of innovative features created to maximize efficiency, productivity, operator comfort, safety and serviceability, while reducing its environmental impact.

The machine is powered by a 12.9-litre, six-cylinder Hino water-cooled turbo engine that produces powerful levels of digging and travelling performance. It features two engine modes that provide a 10% reduction in fuel consumption through the use of Eco mode when the full capability of the machine is not required. A new hydraulics circuit optimizes loading speed by facilitating combined operation of the bucket and lift arm for loading, while prioritizing the use of a 4.4m bucket for unloading.

The spacious cab offers class-leading visibility, with a pillar-less windshield, large sun visor and additional panels in the door/rear view monitor. The Hitachi ZW310-5 has been built to comply with Stage IIIB emissions regulations and includes a range of features to boost fuel efficiency, such as a fuel-saving work mode, optional engine shutdown during periods of long idling and Eco display.

It is also equipped with a muffler filter that captures air pollutants, which are automatically burnt through exhaust temperature control and an oxidation catalyst. Additionally, nitrous oxide levels are reduced through a variable geometry turbocharger that encourages optimal combustion and high volume-cooled exhaust gas recirculation.

The reliability of the Hitachi brand was a key factor in the purchase decision of TJ Transport; given that the recycling operator has been using Hitachi construction equipment for the past eight years.

‘We chose the new Hitachi ZW310-5 to add to our fleet because Hitachi has continuously proved to produce superior machines and this wheel loader is no exception,’ commented John Gosling, managing director of TJ Transport. ‘Models from other manufacturers used simply did not have the power needed for the business we provide to our 3,000-plus clients and were unable to match the build quality of the Hitachi.’

The wheel loader purchase also marked the first time TJ Transport opted for the Hitachi Solas service and extended warranty package, which they have since retrospectively added to the rest of their Hitachi fleet.

Mr Gosling explained: ‘The machines have now developed to such a high level of engineering complexity that maintenance from Hitachi is the only option. With the expert product knowledge offered by Hitachi engineers, as well as continuous preventative maintenance to avoid problems and breakdowns, Solas provides us with guaranteed peace of mind.’