Construction Plant News is treated to a demonstration of the latest technologies and solutions in the Bobcat range
The Doosan Bobcat Campus at Dobris in the Czech Republic was the setting for the company‘s Demo Days. The event served as an introduction to some of the manufacturer’s latest innovations, as well as the chance for its EMEA (Europe, Middle East and Africa) customers and dealers to experience many of the established machines from one of the industry’s most extensive product ranges.
One of the most intriguing units on show was what is described as the first fully electric compact tracked loader – the T7X. The machine will be shortly be available in the US and, in order to gauge the European appetite for such a solution, a prototype version was in attendance at Demo Days. Its drivetrain delivers all the noise and emissions-busting credentials that you would expect but this is equally an all-electric machine in the truest sense. Instead of a hydraulic system transferring power, for example, the T7X features an electrical drive system consisting of electric cylinders and electric drive motors. Powered by a 62kW lithium-ion battery, the rated operating capacity is 1,374 kg, whilst run time on the battery is estimated to be between 3-6 hours, depending on usage, and it takes 10 hours to charge, with a faster charging system currently in development.
Bobcat anticipates that the performance of the T7X will actually be greater than its T76 Compact Track Loader diesel counterpart across a number of parameters, including breakout force. Moreover, this a machine with brains as well as brawn, with software features that can enable short bursts of power for digging work, whilst all tilt and lift arm positions can be monitored.
The entire Bobcat excavator family was on display at the testing ground of the Bobcat Innovation Centre on the Dobris site, starting with the E08. This highly compact digger has a retractable track width of just 71cm and a reduced tail swing design, which makes it an option where only manual labour would otherwise be practical. Other models in this smallest 0-1 tonne category include E10z and the lithium-ion battery pack powered E10e. As with all Bobcat excavators the z denotes zero tail swing. Not only that but with this manufacturer – and unlike many of its competitors – that also means that the front part of the machine remains inside the tracks. The 4-6 tonne units are some of the newest products in the portfolio with four models availble – E55z, E57W, E60 and E50z
Further up the weight class the 8-tonne E88 is a completely new model, featuring a 65hp 2.4litre Bobcat engine. The machine can be equipped with up to five auxillary lines, and, with a 2.2metre width and overall height of 2.5 metres, it marries power and versatility with a compact design.
E35 Operate By Wire Mini-Excavator
Visitors to Dobris got a first look at another Bobcat concept – the E35 Operate By Wire Mini-Excavator. This 3.5 tonne unit sees the hydraulically controlled joysticks replaced by an electro-hydraulic system. With the help of integrated sensors, semi-autonomous functionality is introduced and machine controls can be customised according to the operator’s skill level, helping with precise grading and levelling, for instance, as well as repetitive digging functions.
The Bobcat Depth Check system is available on excavators from the E35z and upwards and helps the operator achieve the request digging depth. A zero level can be set when the bucket touches the ground. Enter the required depth on the in-cab display and three sensors on the boom, arm and bucket, will calculate the exact position of the bucket’s teeth, with the current and desired depth displayed as well as additional audible alerts.
Object Avoidance with Radar Sensors
Continuing this theme of making life easier for the operator the latest Object Avoidance with Radar Sensors concept was demonstrated. Partnering with a US-based company called Ainstein, the result is a radar sensor concept similar to parking sensors on cars. The device – which is essentially a sensor on the back of the unit – is sutiable for any machine and, depending on whether it is equipped with electronic or mechanical control, can stop, derate and alert the operator using light or sound warnings.
S86 and T86 R-Series Loaders
Bobcat also previewed the new S86 R-Series Skid-Steer Loader and T86 R-Series Compact Track Loader. Both machines makes us of a Stage V compliant 3.4-litre Bobcat engine – producing 78 kW (105 HP) at 2,600 RPM.
Furthermore the S86 and T86 are for the first time equipped with three different auxiliary flow outputs. There is a standard flow configuration providing 87 l/min for applications such as load and carry, or where low hydraulic flow attachments are used. Bobcat also offers two additional hydraulic performance functions using the new Electronic Displacement Control (EDC) Pump: a High Flow function giving 138 l/min and a new, industry unique Super Flow function taking auxiliary flow to 159 l/min.
The Super Flow function typically increases productivity with like-for-like attachments by 15 to 20%, and it has a new 5-coupler connection block allowing the use of larger ¾ inch quick coupler connectors and ¾ inch attachment hoses. This change also helps increase auxiliary hydraulic efficiency and performance.
MT100 Mini Track Loader
Designed to replace hard manual labour with wheelbarrows, shovels and other hand tools, the new MT100 mini track loader will be launched by Bobcat later this year, but visitors to Demo Days are the first to see this exciting new product. Capable of passing through gates, doorways and other narrow spaces with ease, the MT100 still offers a big boost in power with a rated operating capacity of more than 450 kg, a powerful breakout force and an impressive lift height.
The Bobcat Demo Days gave hundreds of fleet operators, end users and dealers the opportunity to speak to product experts, enjoy some stick time on the machines, and experience the latest developments from the manufacturer.
