Bobcat Company has released four new Tier IV excavators — the E42, E45, E50 and E55 — which include a non-DPF (diesel particulate filter) engine solution. These four medium-sized M-Series machines provide operators with all of the same performance benefits of the previous interim Tier IV models. The machines also feature a new forward-mount instrumentation system.
The Tier IV Bobcat non-DPF solution was achieved by designing an ultra-low particulate combustion (ULPC) engine. The ULPC is accomplished through a specially designed engine combustion chamber that significantly reduces the amounts of particulate matter created during combustion. Therefore, Tier IV emissions compliance can be achieved without using a DPF.
In addition to eliminating the need for a DPF, the new engines used in E50 and E55 excavators will have a 12 percent increase in torque. This increase in torque is produced over a wide range of engine rpm, allowing operators of all skill levels to better utilize the machines’ maximum performance.
The new Tier IV excavators feature a machine protection system that monitors, manages and shuts down the engine if needed. This system monitors engine coolant and oil temperatures and will manage engine systems to reduce the possibility of these fluids reaching a point where the machine has to be shut down. This minimizes potential damage to the engine, stops unnecessary engine wear and keeps operators working.
Another new feature of the M-Series Tier IV excavators is cold weather protection. Anytime the engine temperature is too low, the loader will temporarily limit the maximum engine speed (rpm) to prevent premature component wear or failure. Engine idle speed also is raised slightly to help the engine reach its operating temperature faster. As soon as the engine warms up to a predetermined temperature, the protection mechanism will deactivate.
M-Series Machines
The conventional tail swing E42 minimizes ground disturbance and excels at bulk excavation tasks, while the zero tail swing E45 can excavate close to surrounding objects with unobstructed rotation and good all-around visibility. The E50 is a minimal tail swing excavator with a compact frame for projects in tight areas without sacrificing digging or attachment performance. Class-leading lift capacity and slew torque performance top the capabilities on the conventional tail swing E55, according to the manufacturer.
Three of the Tier IV excavators — the E42, E45 and E55 — offer a clamp-ready extendable-arm configuration that provides additional length when fully extended, giving operators ultimate reach without having to upsize the machine.
Like all M-Series excavators, these new Tier IV models all feature an independent boom swing for offset operation as well as auto-shift travel, which boosts the machine’s productivity by shifting the machine out of high range and back automatically. An auto-idle feature, which can be enabled at the operator’s discretion, automatically causes the engine to return to idle if the excavator’s functions are not used for four seconds, saving fuel and reducing sound levels.
A total of 13 Bobcat attachments that can help these four versatile machines do more than dig. They include augers, breakers, plate compactors, grading buckets, trenchers and rippers to name a few. The X-Change attachment mounting system, available on some models, increases productivity by quickly changing between attachments. Another option is the Hydraulic X-Change system, which uses hydraulic pins that retract and extend with the push of a button to change attachments, and it maintains optimal “pin-on” bucket geometry to ensure arm and bucket forces are not compromised.
Forward-Mount Instrumentation Improvements
A new forward-mount instrumentation system designed for enhanced functionality and improved ergonomics is being introduced with the E42, E45, E50, and E55. This cab redesign presents operators of Bobcat excavators with many of the functions, aesthetics and visibility they’ve come to enjoy with Bobcat loaders. The new excavator instrumentation technologies also can help owners and fleet managers better understand and evaluate their performance and costs, as well as assist them with identifying opportunities to improve machine and operator efficiencies and protect their investments.
The new deluxe instrumentation panel and control switches have been designed to be more ergonomic for the operator. The previous instrumentation panel required the operator to turn to the side to engage the panel’s input switches; the new panel presents these buttons in front of the operator, where they are easier to identify and reach. From the operator’s viewpoint, the location of the panel also aligns with the existing cab components and work group structures to maintain visibility to the attachment.
The M-Series excavator’s optional deluxe instrumentation panel features multi-lingual functionality, similar to other Bobcat products. It also offers multiple capabilities from analyzing user statistics, to integrated attachment controls, vitals and diagnostics. The new instrumentation system includes the functionality to capture individual fuel usage and real-time fuel consumption, as well as idle-time data.
Among the many improvements offered with the new instrumentation panel, it provides for an enhanced version of the popular keyless start option, which can increase security for equipment assets.
For more information, visit www.bobcat.com.
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