There’s a corner of a foreign field that forever has a hole in it, dug by CPN on a recent trip to Bobcat in the Czech Republic to preview its new 1-2 tonne mini excavators.
To be unveiled at Bauma this month, CPN recently took a chance to preview Bobcat’s new range of 1-2t mini excavators in the Czech Republic. Less perhaps new machines, and more next generation and evolution of the current M-Series; the four ‘new’ machines are the E16, E17z, E19 and E20z and are designated as the R2-Series.
The new generation of 1-2t mini excavators has a fresh look and is claimed to offer enhanced levels of performance combined with advanced features, so far only available on larger excavators. At the heart of these mini excavators lies a fresh powertrain, featuring an upgraded engine integrated with a high-performance load-sensing pump bundled with a closed centre, flow sharing hydraulic system. This combination, typically reserved for bigger diggers, delivers improved responsiveness and efficiency.
Common to all the machines is the Yanmar/ 3TNV70-SBC1 (Stage V) diesel engine. Outputs are uniform across the range, delivering maximum power at 2200rpm of 10.1kW and maximum torque of 49.8Nm at 1600rpm. Travel speeds are 2.0km/h and 4.0km/h at low and high range respectively; and the fuel reservoir holds 21.2l.
Multiple functions
The brand-new hydraulic system allows operators to smoothly operate multiple functions simultaneously even when operating attachments that demand substantial hydraulic power, such as a flail mower. This includes driving, slewing and lifting with precision.
With up to four or five independent auxiliary circuits, AUX1 is general purpose, AUX2 is supporting functions (rotation); while the other three – clam shell bucket, tilting coupler and hydraulic coupler controls – are new. In terms of the ‘exteriors,’ the back end of the minis feature a new design of grill and engine cover – which facilitates panoramic serviceability – and improved tie-down points, lift points and forklift provision in the upper structure. At the front, lights have additional protection, there’s an improved 3D entry bar and door hold locking mechanism; along with an improved buck link mechanism and a newly designed blade, with flotation and extensions.
The cab has been updated with contemporary styling, enhanced visibility and an improved layout. To the interior, new low effort joysticks with ergonomic handles are claimed to significantly reduce control forces and a “deluxe” display improves ease of use for the operator, plus the operator’s efficiency. A wide range of options – such as auto idle, hydraulic coupler lines (AUX5) and demo kits – are available for the machines, as is a comprehensive selection of attachments, from digging and grading buckets, breakers and augers through to clamps and flail mowers.
According to Bobcat, the machine most relevant to the UK market is the E16, followed by the E19 and the E17z. For most practical purposes, there’s barely a fag paper in performance between the E16 and E17z – except for one major factor: the E16 is conventional tail swing, while the E17z is zero tail swing or, in Bobcat-speak, zero house swing (ZHS).
Zero’s in the house
ZHS is claimed to “enhance zero tail swing functionality” by further protecting front upper corners turning within the swing circle, while the design also eliminates the ‘unicorn’ effect of having the boom swing cylinder exposed during parallel digging.
On the cusp of van-legal weight at 1612kg (with canopy and attachment), the E16 is an easily transportable, value for money option that combines simplicity with the advanced features of its larger counterparts.
Make sure you get hold of a copy of next month’s CPN, when The Dig puts all four of Bobcat’s new minis through their paces.
