Hitachi Construction Machinery Americas Inc. (HCMA) has launched the ZX50U-5N compact excavator which comes with full-size features. The machine has a compact reduced tail-swing design. The 10,560-pound (4,790-kg) ZX50U-5N is ideal for working in congested areas. An independent swing boom and 360-degree rotation let operators set up and work almost anywhere. Plus, virtually unlimited visibility and precise control make it a great tool for excavating around existing utilities. This excavator is a smart choice for trenching, excavating, loading trucks, and other tasks in wide-open spaces.
The ZX50U-5N offers plenty of height and reach to get up and over truck sideboards with a maximum reach of 19 ft, 7 in (5.96m). It also provides a maximum dig depth of 11 ft, 7 in (3.53m). A backfill blade allows the excavator to fill or grade while an optional all-hydraulic blade angles 25 degrees left or right, for efficient grading and backfilling.
Compact excavators are commonly used as tool carriers with a wide range of attachments to increase job site versatility. A standard quick-coupler-equipped, boom-mounted auxiliary line makes attachment hookup on the ZX50U-5N easy. An auxiliary function lever (AFL) is available with an analog switch, trigger switch, and horn for running attachments such as a breaker or an attachment with a swing.
The ZX50U-5N allows the engine speed to be matched to the job with power/economy work modes, which are usually only available on larger excavator models. The power mode provides higher engine speeds for most general digging work, while the economy mode reduces engine speed for lighter digging jobs. This results in lower noise and decreased fuel consumption. The excavator also uses the Hitachi Triple H (HHH) hydraulic system, which enables combined operations by adjusting the optimal flow rate for all actuators. This gives the operator the freedom to provide simultaneous control inputs with no impact on machine performance.
A Tier 4 Final compliant, direct-injected Yanmar engine produces 36.3 net horsepower (27.1 kW) while remaining fuel-efficient and quiet. The engine provides a high torque level for more pull-through power.
The ZX50U-5N is designed for operator comfort
Just because the ZX50U-5N can squeeze into a tight space doesn't mean the operator should. The operator station has a wide entryway. Swing boom and foldable travel pedals are positioned where they are easy to operate yet allow plenty of foot room.
Ergonomic short-throw hydraulic pilot control levers provide smooth, predictable low-effort fingertip operation to reduce operator fatigue. To suit operator preference and increase productivity, control patterns can be quickly switched from backhoe- to excavator-style controls with a control-pattern selector located in a compartment beneath the seat.
A 3.5-inch (88.9mm) LCD monitor keeps the operator informed of vital information while allowing fingertip control of several functions, including auto-shutdown and, power/economy modes.
Comfort inside the cab has been made ideal with an automatic, high velocity, bi-level climate-control system with automotive-style adjustable louvers to help keep the glass clear.
The durability of the ZX50U-5N compact excavator
The ZX50U-5N is built to the same durability standards as larger Hitachi excavators. Oil-impregnated HN bushings are used on the boom, arm, and bucket joints for increased durability. Heavy-duty X-frames provide a rock-solid base that resists material and dirt buildup. A single-pin swing post increases the structural integrity of the digging components.
The rubber tracks on the ZX50U-5N feature a unique steel core that resists cracking. Large-diameter drive sprockets and track idlers further increase undercarriage durability.
A V-shaped cylinder guard provides added protection to the boom cylinder. To prevent damage to the upper structure, a D-section frame skirt improves upward impact resistance by 20 percent over previous models.
Maintenance on the new compact excavator
Compact machines can be more challenging to maintain, but not with the ZX50U-5N. A hinged door provides wide access to the side-by-side oil cooler and radiator core for easier cleanout. Routine checks, such as engine oil level, are quickly accomplished from ground level. A hydraulic fluid sight gauge and see-through coolant reservoir allow the operator to check at a glance.
Adjusting proper track tension only requires a grease gun and a wrench. A large fuel tank, 500- and 2,000-hour engine and hydraulic oil service, and 500-hour greasing intervals enable these excavators to work long hours between scheduled service intervals.
The operator station tilts forward 50 degrees, simplifying access to the swing motor, hydraulic control valve, engine starter motor, and alternator.
To reduce the cost of repair, the traditional curved glass used in the cab has been exchanged with more easily obtainable flat glass.
