Made : Hitachi Construction Machinery Co. Ltd.

Manufacturing Year : 2013

Description :

Promising a significant reduction in fuel consumption as well as excellent productivity, advanced technology, and a range of features for enhanced sustainability, comfort, safety and easy maintenance, the new model has been designed to perform in heavy-duty applications.

Hitachi Construction Machinery (Europe) NV (HCME) launched its ZW550-5 wheel loader, the largest model in the ZW-5 range, at bauma. The new wheel loader complies with EU regulations on emission standards. It has a Stage IIIB 15.68-litre six-cylinder water-cooled turbo engine that enables a powerful digging performance, impressive travel speeds and a reduction in fuel consumption of more than 10 per cent. The new ZW-5 wheel loader is easier to manoeuvre than the previous model, which also results in higher levels of productivity. A new clutch cut-off system allows for smooth operation when it is loading. 

Features :

According to the company, a lower level of fuel consumption than the previous model has been achieved partially by the new torque converter lock-up function. The lock-up is activated in second, third and fourth gears, and allows the wheel loader to travel quickly and more efficiently. On flat terrain, fuel consumption is lowered by 12-14 per cent and on a long slope, by 7-13 per cent.

Two simple work modes provide an appropriate level of performance for a particular task. In Standard mode, the engine speed is controlled, which allows for smooth and efficient acceleration during loading, regular operations and travelling on level terrain. The P mode is useful when greater traction force is required for heavy-duty excavation and travelling quickly uphill.

When changing work modes, the ZW550-5 has a quick power switch, an example of its advanced technology, which boosts the power when required. The wheel loader also features a new hydraulic circuit, which facilitates the combined operation of the bucket and lift arm for loading, and prioritises the use of the bucket for unloading.

The optional auto-engine shutdown function avoids fuel wastage while the wheel loader is long idling. In addition to lowering fuel costs for the customer, this also enhances the sustainability of the ZW550-5. It also has a muffler filter to capture air pollutants, which are automatically burnt thanks to an oxidation catalyst and exhaust temperature control.

The durability of the ZW550-5 has been enhanced by several new features, including a full box rear frame structure, double Z-bar front linkage and low mount lift arm cylinder.

Focus on operators comfort :

Comfort was a key factor in the design of the new ZW550-5. The cab is more spacious than the previous model, because the heated air-suspension seat can slide further back, providing more leg room. The tilting telescopic pop-up steering column has also been repositioned to create additional space.

The air-conditioning system regulates the temperature inside the cab, and an optional filter is available for industrial waste job sites. Sound insulation reduces noise levels from the local environment and improves the operator???s overall experience.

Safety is paramount :

To improve safety on the job site, the ZW550-5 offers greater visibility from the operator???s seat thanks to a pillar-less windshield and large sun visor. The counterweight is also visible from both sides of the machine. The shift-up delay to third gear makes the wheel loader safer to operate in confined spaces, because it can perform excavating and unloading tasks more safely in first and second gear.

A variety of easy maintenance features have been incorporated into the design of the ZW550-5 to ensure maximum availability. For example, the redesigned engine and radiator cover can be opened fully, providing quick and convenient access for daily inspection. The greasing points, oil levels and fuel filters can all be accessed at ground level.

For operation in dust-filled environments, the ZW550-5 wheel loader can be equipped with an optional wide-pitch fin radiator to prevent clogging. Another useful feature for quick routine maintenance is the automatic reversible cooling fan, which allows for easy cleaning of the radiator with its one-minute automatic reverse rotation every 30 operating minutes.

Specifications :

- Engine rated power: 396kW
- Operating weight: 46,730-47,480kg
- Bucket capacity: 6.0-6.8m3
- Breakout force: 395kN