JCB unveils 3 models in new generation of compact excavators

The 57C-1, a completely new machine, is one of three models that replace earlier compact excavators in the 13,000-22,000-pound class. Photo: JCBThe 57C-1, a completely new machine, is one of three models that replace earlier compact excavators in the 13,000-22,000-pound class.
Photo: JCB

JCB is introducing three new models in its compact excavator line, the next generation of its 6-, 8-, 9- and 10-ton (13,000-22,000-pound) class. The three additional models range from 10,000-12,500 pounds and available in conventional and zero tailswing configurations.

JCB outlines the key features of its new compact excavators:

  • 500-hour greasing intervals
  • Improved cab instrumentation
  • 18-percent increase in 57C operator’s cab capacity
  • 11-percent improvement in visibility
  • 9-percent boost to bucket breakout
  • 5-percent additional dump height
  • 2-percent more powerful bucket breakout force

The three new models are the 48Z-1, which replaces the previous 8045Z; the 55Z-1, which takes over from the 8055ZTS/RTS; and a completely new 57C-1 model. All three feature 100-percent steel bodywork and four-plate dipper arm construction.

The digging end is 100-percent bushed, JCB says, leading to the extended greasing intervals. JCB has also redesigned the pin pick-up points to be compatible with a variety of bucket brands, while optional hydraulic or manual quick hitches can be specified for faster attachment changes.

The manufacturer says it has also developed a new range of ECO buckets, with a redesigned profile for easier filling and improved material retention.

The excavators feature a redesigned digging end, with a longer main boom and shorter dipper arm, to provide up to 5-percent greater dump height for easier truck and site dumper loading.

Operator comfort and control

JCB says each of the new excavators boasts an improved operator’s cab, with the 57C-1 using the same structure as JCB’s 22,000-pound machine. The cab is 18 percent more spacious and offers up to 11 percent more visibility, the company says.

The cabs’ noise and vibration levels have been reduced, JCB says, but the biggest development in the cab is the adoption of a new display screen and control system with an automotive-style rotary dial. This allows easy access to a host of systems and information, the company says.

The operator can set auxiliary hydraulic flows for two separate attachments from the cab, while the menu mode button switches the rotary dial between throttle modes, including a one-touch idle function and menu mode.

As with JCB’s larger JS excavators, the compact machines now have nine power modes available, including Eco and, for the first time, an H+ heavy digging mode. The machines can also be ordered ready for tilt-rotator installation from the factory with a programmable third auxiliary function.

JCB also offers an optional Safe Lift feature, with an integral lift-overload warning system. An industry-first at this weight, Safe Lift incorporates a green-amber-red graphic in the new monitor panel, with an audible warning that sounds if the machine approaches overload.

JCB says the machine’s productivity has been further enhanced with the adoption of an electro-hydraulic dozer control lever, with up to three buttons in the head to control two-speed tracking, dozer float and a four-way adjustable dozer blade where fitted.

All three excavators come with a Tier 4 Final, no-DPF engine from JCB by Kohler. The engine produces 48 horsepower and 225Nm (or Newton meter) gross torque.

JCB says access to the engine also has been improved with wide-opening steel canopies.

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