JCB expand tracked excavator range

JCB are strengthening their range of JS tracked excavators with the addition of three new machines ranging from 29 tonnes to 52 tonnes. The new 29-tonne JS290, 36-tonne JS360 and 52-tonne JS520 were all shown at the Conexpo 2008 exhibition in Las Vegas, which took place earlier this month.

The JS290 will bridge the gap between the 26-tonne JS260 and the 33-tonne JS330 in JCB’s existing tracked excavator line-up, while the JS360 will fill the opening between the JS330 and the 46-tonne JS460. The flagship JS520 will become the largest machine JCB manufactures.

Competing in the growing 28 to 35-tonne market against existing 29-tonne models in the market, the JS290 features all the hallmarks of JCB’s Auto range. Powered by an Isuzu six-cylinder, Tier III-compliant engine, the machine is said to combine high productivity with impressive lift capacity and drawbar pull, while being comfortable and economical to run.

JCB say that, compared to class average, the JS290 produces 6% more engine power, 4% more hydraulic power and 11% more dipper tear-out. The slew torque and bucket tear-out are also said to be best in class, standing 14% and 19% ahead of the class average respectively.

JCB group chief operating officer Matthew Taylor said: ‘The JS290 is set to raise the bar in the 29-tonne sector with its exceptional power and performance. The introduction of this all new model will strengthen JCB’s position at the forefront of excavator design and spearheads our drive for a significantly increased share of the world market.’