New Bobcat mini excavator
Bobcat introduce 2.6-tonne zero-tail-swing machine
Bobcat have launched the new 2.6-tonne zero-tail-swing E26 mini-excavator to target the 2-3-tonne market.
The E26 offers all the advantages of the new E-generation of excavators from Bobcat launched over the last 18 months, namely reliability, operator comfort, smooth workgroup operation and superior hydraulic performance. In addition, the E26 offers increased stability, optimized operating weight for towing and low noise and vibration, complemented by new features and technologies that are not yet available in many mini-excavators on the market.
Contributing to the high reliability of the E26 mini-excavator are the four-plate box design for the workgroup, high-resistant DCPD covers and ‘quick-lock’ hydraulic connections. The four-plate box design reduces weight in the workgroup which, together with weight being added at the back of the excavator, has made it possible to move the centre of gravity towards the rear of the machine and increase stability.
Easy transportation
Increased stability ensures that the E26 mini-excavator does not require an additional counterweight when configured with the optional long dipperstick. This increases the working range while still limiting the weight of the cabbed long-arm version of the E26 to 2,700kg to allow it to be transported by trailer (maximum towable weight, including trailer: 3.5 tonnes).
Operator comfort
An important achievement in the cab version is the successful integration of the same cab used on the Bobcat excavator models in the 3-5-tonne category. Even though the E26 has a zero-tail-swing design, the cab offers high comfort, visibility and space standards, with heating and radio/MP3 readiness as standard. The cab offers easy entry and exit for the operator and the design allows the door to be fully opened within the width of the upper structure. This reduces the possibility of damage to the machine and the surrounding environment. Both the cab and canopy versions of the E26 offer ample foot and legroom for the operator and have a full suspension seat.
The E26 is designed to offer the operator a full 360° view around the machine with full sight of the right track and the rear of the cab. The reduced weight of the strut-assisted front window makes it easier to open and close.
The control system, which automatically monitors the engine and hydraulic systems and shuts them down in the event of a problem, also automatically turns off the work lights after 10min when the key is not in the ignition to prevent the battery being run down. A battery kill switch provides enhanced security.
The boom swing is controlled by a thumb wheel located on the left joystick, instead of a pedal control. This feature improves controllability (metering) of the boom swing function and provides increased floor space for the operator.
The pilot controls for the blade automatically manage the floating of the blade relative to the tracks so the operator does not need to continuously adjust the blade. The blade cylinder hydraulic hose between the cylinder and undercarriage has a ‘two-piece’ design for easy replacement in case of a hose rupture.
A new feature on the E26 mini-excavator is the auto-shift travel motor allowing the machine to shift automatically from low to high speed and vice-versa. The operator can also activate this feature by pushing the button on top of the blade control lever.
To help avoid a spill when refuelling from a jerry can, an interval bleep indicates the level of fuel as it approaches the maximum. A lockable external fuel cap prevents theft and makes it convenient to refuel the excavator without opening the covers during transport. A lockable storage compartment under the seat and external lockable covers provide additional security.
Digging performance
Thanks to a new main control valve, an optimized pump and a higher working pressure, the hydraulic system on the E26 mini-excavator optimizes the use of engine power. The higher relief pressure of the hydraulic system ensures the E26 offers the highest digging forces and lifting capacities in its class.
The open-centre hydraulic system has a priority section in the main valve that creates a load-sensing feature, resulting in smooth and controllable feedback of excavator functions. The gear pump for the pilot controls provides an additional hydraulic flow to enhance simultaneous operations. The cushioned boom and arm cylinders provide a smooth end-of-stroke movement, without detracting from the high efficiency and productivity of the machine.
A thumb accessory to create a clamp with the bucket can easily be mounted on the dipperstick since the connection points are already in place.
The E26 is equipped with the 15.5kW Kubota D1105-E2B-BCZ-2 diesel engine and has a new air intake, cooling and exhaust system, helping to reduce noise for both the operator and bystanders (operator noise level is 77dBA and bystander noise is 91dBA). The sealed floor plates and isolation on the inside of the engine panel behind the operator’s seat reduce undesired heat in the cab.
The directional lug rubber tracks offer a smooth ride with less vibration. The ergonomic travel controls with cast aluminium travel pedals are optimized for floor placement and allow smooth, confident control of the machine. When not in use, the travel pedals can fold forward for maximum foot room and easy cab clean-out. The travel levers are positioned adjacent to each other, allowing easy drive control, even with one hand if necessary. This improves backfilling productivity as the operator can steer with one hand while adjusting the blade with the other.
Reliability and service access
The reliability of a mini-excavator has a direct bearing on its lifelong operating costs. Computer-aided design techniques and highly durable materials and structures, which are endurance-tested under extreme conditions, are used to enhance reliability. As mentioned previously, the four-plate box structure of the boom is designed to provide a longer life.
The E26 is designed to allow easy access to all the daily maintenance points through the rear tailgate, right-hand-side cover and the removable grill and side channels on both sides of the excavator. All greasing points have been centralized for greater convenience. The maintenance free idler and rollers, in combination with the auto-tensioning engine belt, help to give the operator further peace of mind.
For more information visit www.bobcat.eu
