At the Las Vegas Show, bobcats launched the R series, a line up of 13 mini excavator that will be launched in two phases in 2017.
The first phase, which will be on display at conexpo this week, includes the popular 3-4 t E32 and E35 models. The machine is characterized by a double flange redesign of the track system and an optimized rear counterweight. The double-flange roller extends the excavator chassis structure closer to the rail edge, providing up to 15% side capacity. Bobcat says this feature improves side dig performance and slewing ability, in addition to improving ride quality.
Mini excavator sales boom
Tom Connor, an expert on the R series E35 excavators at mini excavator, said the mini excavator market in North America has grown 218 percent in the six years since the company launched its last m series mini excavator. “Over the same period, this has outpaced the growth of both the sliding and the mini crawler loaders,”Connor said.
Why is it so long Connor says that mini excavator have become more accepted because they have proven themselves to be a viable device. “People’s perception of the Mini excavator has completely changed,”he said, adding that it is increasingly being used as an alternative to backhoes. (bobcats used to advocate the use of skidding steering mini excavator “Bobcat systems”instead of backhoes.) Another reason: The popularity of the machine in rental applications. “The leasing company gave us evidence of the product,”Connor said. “It’s a great sales tool.”
R-Series details
The r-series detail of the r-series model has an integrated rear counterweight design that reduces the machine’s center of gravity and helps stabilize the machine. The operator is still free to use the engine and perform routine maintenance checks. In addition, the hinges and latches are strengthened, and the excavator’s rigid alignment panel reduces cab vibration.
The R series cab has 15% more glass and 29% more floor space than the m series cab, plus an automatic HVAC system. The seats and cab are also wider than the M series, and owners can choose to install heated seats. Taxi improvements are important, Connor said. He added, 60 percent of our machines are now taxis. The redesigned pedals fold up to add more floor space. The control mode selector is located directly below the operator’s seat, allowing the user to quickly switch between ISO and standard controls.
The left joystick has a second auxiliary selector switch that allows the operator to switch between the second auxiliary switch and the arm lever offset without removing the hand from the joystick. Bobcat said the new model could expand its range of motion by adding a downward angle. The blade of the excavator has increased to 33% , 12 degrees down. This allows the operator to obtain an accurate angle and stabilize the machine during excavation, or during excavation on uneven ground or at an inclined angle. The down angle of the blade will vary with the model. The oil-free pin joint on the boom eliminates oil spots.
