New generation Bobcat 4-6 tonne mini-excavators
The Bobcat E45 and E50 zero-tail-swing (ZTS) mini-excavators are designed to provide high performance levels in the 4-6 tonne category of mini-excavators. Intended for applications in construction, demolition, rental, utility, landscaping and other markets, both excavators offer fast work cycles with smooth and precise workgroup functions, high operator comfort, reduced noise, good service access and increased reliability and stability.
Based on the same platform, the two new excavators are intended to meet the requirements of diverse applications as well as different geographic markets. Equipped with cab and bucket, the E45 has an operating weight of 4,634kg and offers a maximum digging depth of 3,300mm. The E50 model, equipped with cab and bucket, has an operating weight of 4,905kg and a maximum digging depth of 3,524mm.
Powered by the four-cylinder Kubota V2403-M-DI-TE38-BC-5 and V2403-M-DI-TE38-BC-4 turbo-charged Tier III diesel engines, respectively, producing 30.2kW and 35.4kW net per SAE J1349 of output power at 2,200 rev/min, the E45 and E50 offer both fuel economy and plenty of power. This results in breakout forces of 28.0kN in the dipper arm and 35.1kN at the bucket for the E45 and 30.4kN in the dipper arm and 41.2kN at the bucket for the E50 and lifting capacities of 2,369kg and 2,778kg, respectively, at ground level and at a radius of 3m.
Both machines have as standard an ‘auto idle’ feature, which reduces fuel consumption and noise and creates a more comfortable environment. The auto idle feature, which can be used at the operator’s discretion, automatically causes the engine to drop to idle if the excavator functions are not used for a period of about four seconds. The engine automatically returns to the pre-set throttle position when the operator moves a joystick or a travel function.
The engine, air intake, cooling and exhaust systems, along with the hydraulic pump and valve, are designed to offer a lower bystander noise (95LwA for the E45 and 96LwA for the E50) and operator ear noise level (79 and 81dB(A) respectively).
Both excavators feature a completely new cab design that offers the operator plenty of space for their feet and legs as well as a comfortable work environment. Boom offset and first and second (optional) auxiliary hydraulic controls are integrated in the joysticks. The cab is equipped as standard with heating and ventilation. Air conditioning is available as an option.
The E45 and E50 offer 360 degree visibility from the cab with full visibility to the right track of the machine as well as to the rear of the cab. The wiper motor is mounted on the lower front window to provide superior visibility to the front.
The directional lug rubber tracks provide a smooth ride with less vibration without reducing surface grip. Sealed floor plates and the routing of the hydraulic hoses below the floor mat isolate the operator from undesired heat in the cab.
Designed to achieve the high performance with smooth movements, the E45 and E50 mini-excavators combine maximum productivity with the ability to carry out jobs with precision and fingertip control. The load-sensing piston pump and the closed centre valve allow fine metering of hydraulic flow for smooth, precise control of machine functions, even with simultaneous operations, while reducing reaction time, hydraulic noise, and fuel consumption. The boom and dipper arm cylinders are cushioned to provide a smooth, end-of stroke operation.
The high hydraulic flow (75.7 l/min) in the auxiliary line, in combination with the stability, has increased the range of attachments that can be used on these excavators, increasing speed and versatility for performing a wider range of tasks.
The undercarriage on the E45 and E50 features sealed, maintenance-free track rollers, a top roller and wide sprockets offering high resilience and a long service life. The ‘open’ design and sloped surfaces of the X-frame undercarriage help prevent the build up of mud and debris.
The travel pedals provide smooth, accurate control of the excavator. When not in use, the pedals can fold forward for maximum foot room. The travel levers are positioned adjacent to each other, allowing for easy drive control, even with one hand if desired. The backfill blade is controlled by the joystick rather than by a mechanical lever, providing more convenience for the operator.
The booms on the E45 and E50 consist of a four-plate box design with internal gussets that optimize weight, yet provides a strong, durable and reliable structure.
The design of the hydraulic components, routing of the hydraulic hoses and hydraulic connections, combined with improved assembly procedures, significantly reduces the possibility of hydraulic leaks and increases quality and reliability. ‘Quicklock’ snap-to-connect fittings for connections to the valve block ports lowers stress on the fittings as they exit the valve, reducing the chance of leaks. Compared to the classical 90 degree fittings, the Quicklock fittings also generate less heat and thus lower the cooling requirements of the machines.
Access through the wide opening tailgate and sidegate simplifies routine maintenance. There is easy access to all service components such as filters, the battery and radiator as well as centralized grease points. The air conditioning condenser and hydraulic cooler can be easily separated for cleaning purposes, without need for tools. Auto-tension belts help to reduce maintenance needs. The E45 and E50 also offer the protection of an electronically controlled engine and hydraulic system monitor with automatic shutdown.
The fuel fill point, which can be locked, is designed to make refuelling simpler. The counterweight, tailgate and sidegate can be removed easily for unlimited access. The tailgate is lockable and, since the sidegate is released via the tailgate, this design offers protection from vandalism and theft. Other security features include the lockable storage compartment under the seat and the battery disconnect switch.
