Construction Industry News: Kobelco Launches The Latest SK Excavator

Kobelco Construction Machinery USA Inc. launched the new SK210LC-11excavator sporting the new Tier 4 Yanmar engine that is able to pit up 160 HP and 577 lb-ft of torque which means it is 18 % more powerful than its predecessor.

The announcement that the new SK210LC-11 will be added to its current next generation line-up was welcomed by industry players far and wide as these new machines, especially the SK210LC-11 delivers not just efficiency and higher productivity, but it also feature many new elements that enhances the machine’s performance. The concept and design of this model is in line with Kobelco’s well-established ‘Performance by Design Concept’ that revolves around operator oriented performance elements which also prioritises operator comfort within this class of excavators.

The manufacturer indicated that from the very first generation of the SK series developed in 1983 the 20 ton Kobelco excavator has been a popular choice within fleet and excavator rental service companies within the industry owing to the machine’s versatility. The ability of these machines to perform within the scope of various general construction scenarios was a driving factor behind the machine’s popularity. The machine now is even more powerful attributed to the new Tier 4 Final Yanmar Engine, that is able to pit up 160 HP and 577 lb-ft of torque which means it is 18 % more powerful than its predecessor.

The SK210LC-11 is fitted with a bucket is able to exert a bucket digging force of more than 32,000lb. The swing torque is also admirable at 52,740lb-ft which is complemented with a 51,300lb drawbar pulling force. There are plenty of other features offered through this model which enhances the overall value of this model compared to all the previous models. Unique features include the ‘independent travel function’ which allows the operators to move heavy objects around the construction site smoothly and steadily.

This is achieved by channelling one hydraulic pump for mobility and channelling the other to the attachment continuously. The machine’s weight which is at 50,000lb enhances stability and renders the SK210LC-11 excavator with superior lifting capacity. Kobelco heavy excavators over the last decade have been equipped to function under three work modes (Eco, S, and H) which allow the operators to select the machines productivity between superior performance, being economical (low fuel consumption). Other new added features exclusive to the SK210LC-11 includes the ‘Heavy Lift’ and Power Boost option. These functions deliver power on demand and as needed to overcome difficult or tough situations.

Operators are also able to change attachments and hoses quickly and easily using the hydraulic pressure release function. This latest model is also tougher than all the previous models and is much more durable given the fact that most of the excavator’s components were redesigned towards enhancing both durability and performance. The machine has thicker side panels which makes the machine’s skeleton as tough as tough can be and the enhanced diameter of the pin for the bucket cylinder increases the durability of the various attachments used during projects.

Last, but not least is the ergonomics of these machines which have been design to keep operator fatigue at bay, which is another productivity enhancer.