Hitachi has now completed its state of the art mining excavator line-up with the launch of both the 195 t EX2000-7 and at the top end of the size class, the 830 t EX8000-7. These machines join the EX1200-7, EX2600-7, EX3600-7 and EX5600-7.
Newly introduced to the mining industry, the EX8000-7 is Hitachi’s largest standard backhoe excavator, it says “guaranteeing the utmost power and force for incredibly demanding and challenging jobs. An industry pioneer for mining excavators with more than 100 years of experience across group companies, Hitachi EX8000-7 brings you advanced fuel optimisation technologies, state of the art safety features and a focus on easy maintenance and operation.”
Weighing just over 830 t with a 43-48 m3 bucket capacity, which can move 75 t of dirt per bucket load, the flagship excavator comes with an option of a Cummins QSKTA60 or MTU 12V4000 C33 diesel charged engine, generating 2 x 1,450 kW (2 x 1,944 HP) at 1,800 rpm. “With a front attachment design that prioritises performance, the EX8000-7 achieves superior productivity and reliable digging power across different mining profiles.”
The EX8000-7 excavator is engineered to tackle the most demanding jobs, whilst maintaining superior operator comfort, “taking the operator experience to new heights, featuring electronic joysticks, an intelligent multi-functional display, advanced air suspension seating and improved climate control.”
Hitachi says it also has a long standing commitment to the advancement of mining through digital innovation and connectivity. The EX8000-7 sees the most significant update being the extensive on-board sensors, diagnostic tools and advanced software delivering exceptional insights and empowering operations, to achieve any excavating task with proficiency and ease.
Another key improvement is the addition of the new electronic cylinder stroke controls that enable the signalling from angel sensors to the main frame, boom and arm. This controls the pump flow rate and cylinder speed, improving operator comfort and lowering impact on cylinders and structure for a more reliable operation.
Designed with safety at the forefront, the EX8000-7 is one of the safest machines on the market featuring an on-board inclinometer; improved machine access & ease of maintenance; a dual isolator switch as standard; emergency escape chute; engine stop switching and optional perimeter monitoring cameras.
Cutting edge technology and robust design come together to make EX8000-7 excavators the most durable. Featuring advanced computer modelling, specialised forgings and specially designed track shoes, are just some of the features to maximise longevity and contribute to lower operating costs.
Hitachi officially launched the EX2000-7 at MINExpo 2021 in September, which was attended by IM. “With reduced fuel consumption and several hydraulic system improvements, the EX2000-7 provides productivity and efficiency,” said Kendall Mattson, Hitachi mining production system specialist, Hitachi Construction & Mining Division. “Its cutting-edge features also help minimise operating costs while going greener without sacrificing performance. We look forward to customers taking advantage of all the EX2000-7 has to offer.”
With the new Cummins QST30-C, the EX2000-7 features less fuel consumption for significant cost savings and lower environmental impact. Main pump electronic regulators, high hydraulic efficiency regeneration, and a cooling package work together as sustainability technologies that help reduce fuel consumption by up to 20% compared to the previous EX1900-6 model with Cummins configuration.
The EX2000-7’s hydraulic system conserves energy as each individual control valve is closely adjusted to direct the exact required amount of pressure to each cylinder and swing motor from the pumps. The result is lower fuel consumption and improved pump life. A larger hydraulic oil cooler with variable speed fan also helps reduce energy demand and creates a more reliable hydraulic system. The oil cooler is kept separate from the radiator to effectively reduce hydraulic oil temperatures, increase hydraulic service life, and improve maintainability.
The EX2000-7 features a power-focused design, including a larger bucket, to deliver consistently impressive output for mining operations. As a shovel, the new machine has a larger 12 m³ bucket compared to the previous EX1900-6 model’s 11 m³ bucket, designed to increase loading capability with a tilt angle that enhances operational efficiency. Hydraulic pumps optimized with electronic regulation also help increase efficiency.
To increase reliability and reduce chafing, the EX2000-7’s front attachment hoses have been rearranged from the traditional arch style to an underslung configuration, removing the need for clamping. Likewise, a newly designed heavy-duty guard protects hoses and accumulators located in the track center frame from rocks and debris ingress.
In terms of durability, the EX2000-7 features a stronger, more durable mainframe than previous models. Stress is now more evenly dispersed across the improved frame shape, increasing machine durability and reducing downtime. The connection between the EX2000-7 arm and boom has been upgraded from one connecting pin to two connecting pins, increasing front attachment durability.
Additionally, the EX2000-7 simplifies maintenance for increased uptime. A new auto-lubrication system comes with 200 L large capacity grease tank, new grease pump, in-line grease filter with breather, grease level indicator in cab and provision for fitment of a second grease pump in the lubrication tank. These features provide a more reliable system with increased uptime.
The EX2000-7 also features contamination sensors on main hydraulic pumps, travel motors and swing motors to detect any contaminants that may cause damage to the hydraulic system. These sensors alert the operator of potential contaminants and record the fault code in the Data Logging Unit (DLU) and have the capability to remotely advise maintenance personnel.