Kobelco Construction Machinery America’s 55SRx compact excavator expands its compact excavator product line into a new class size. A true short-radius excavator, the 55SRx delivers the productivity of a larger machine while working in a footprint close to zero tail swing models, according to the manufacturer.

The new machine includes some of the same features found on larger Kobelco machines. High performance hydraulics, combined with an efficient powertrain, deliver speed, force and fuel efficiency. It also uses structural components found on larger machines, such as a cast center swing foot and heavy-duty reinforced boom and arm.

“Kobelco designs and builds the best compact excavators, and the Kobelco 55SRx compact excavator is no exception,” said Reece Norwood, platform manager at Kobelco. “The new machine is ideal for work in tight spaces — such as along foundations — and delivers the power, performance and productivity found on a mid-sized excavator.”

Featuring a large boom and arm for a wider operating range, the Kobelco 55SRx delivers 11,240 lb.ft. (50.0 kN) of bucket digging force. Rated at 39 hp (29.3 kW), with an operating weight of 12,295 lbs. (5,577 kg) and a dig depth of 12 ft. 10 in. (3.9 m), the machine is engineered for commercial and residential construction, underground, landscaping and demolition projects. With its compact size and a cab height of 8 ft. 4 in. (2.55 m), the 55SRx is easy to transport between job sites.

Versatile for a Range of Applications

The compact excavator is equipped with a standard two-way backfill dozer blade featuring a 38-degree approach angle for finish grading. An optional four-way dozer blade is available for increased backfill and grading ability.

The increased rear swing radius and large counterweight give the Kobelco 55SRx increased stability for using larger buckets and lifting heavier loads.

“The machine layout maintains the dimensions of a short-radius excavator, but provides the stability expected from a conventional excavator,” Norwood said.

Hydraulics

“Kobelco’s legendary hydraulic systems are the foundation for the performance of the new compact excavator, just as they are for the full-size excavators,” Norwood said. “The Kobelco 55SRx is the smoothest, easiest to operate compact excavator in the industry.”

For easy operation of thumb or grapple buckets, the 55SRx includes a factory-installed attachment bracket for hydraulics, so it is “thumb ready”. The compact excavator also includes piping for secondary hydraulics to handle a number of attachments or provide a dedicated circuit to a thumb bucket. The increased flexibility on the job site makes this machine ideal for rental applications, too, according to the manufacturer.

Large ROPS/FOPS Cab

The 55SRx features a large ROPS/FOPS cab with an operator environment similar to a full-sized conventional excavator. It features a larger front window and wider rear window for optimum visibility and performance. The fully retractable front window improves air flow and allows the operator to communicate more effectively with coworkers near the machine. Standard air conditioning provides all-day comfort for the operator.

In addition to the 55SRx, the Kobelco compact excavator product line includes the 17SR, 27SR, 35SR and 50SR. Kobelco also offers a full range of short-radius, mid-size, Bladerunner and full-size excavators.

For more information, visit www.kobelcoamerica.com.

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