HITACHI CONSTRUCTION MACHINERY

Hitachi Construction Machinery (Europe) NV (HCME) has expanded the popular ZW wheel loader range with the new ZW180PL. The new model has been equipped with Parallel Linkage (PL), which makes it suitable for use with a wide range of attachments and enhances its versatility for various industry solutions.

The development of the ZW180PL allows Hitachi to meet the increasingly varied requirements of its customers. It has the same innovative features as the industry-leading ZW220, ZW250 and ZW310 wheel loaders, and shares the same benefits of better performance, ultimate comfort and safety, and reduced running costs.

Better performance

The ZW180PL can be used with fork attachments, log grapples and large-volume buckets for loading relatively light materials such as woodchips, snow and compost. When the arm of a PL wheel loader is raised, the change in angle of the attachment is minimal (less than three degrees), compared to a standard wheel loader (more than 26 degrees). This explains why the PL option is particularly useful for fork-lifting applications such as lifting pallets on uneven ground.

The PL model of the ZW180 also has two bucket cylinders, which makes it ideal for use with the log grapple attachment. It can lift loads to a higher position than the standard wheel loader, because it has greater power when the arm is elevated.

The ZW180PL is equipped with a quick coupler to make switching between attachments fast and simple. Additional hydraulics can also be fitted to the attachments if required. The bucket operation can also be controlled more precisely by the PL wheel loader, so it is more suitable for use with heavy attachments, and when slower, gradual loading is required.

Like the ZW180 wheel loader, the PL version is equipped with an innovative hydraulic system. This incorporates advanced technology, which has already been tested on Hitachi Zaxis excavators and will have a huge impact on the productivity of any job site.

The Total Torque Control System has manually adjustable settings between traction force, penetration force and front speed to increase productivity and reduce fuel consumption. Advanced automatic transmissions allow for enhanced load-and-carry performance, and the machine’s load-sensing system brings improved loading efficiency. Simultaneous movement of the wheel loader’s arm and bucket also improves rise-and-travel performance.

The ZW180PL has a three-step clutch cut-off system, which allows for the selection of balance between braking force and clutch cut-off when working on a gradient. A new powerful engine and capacious torque converter brings greater mobility under heavy loads.

Ultimate comfort and safety

The spacious, comfortable cab of the PL model is identical to the ZW180 wheel loader. It has an adjustable heated seat with air suspension, air conditioning and adjustable steering column. All controls, switches and pedals are ergonomically designed and positioned for ease of use. The cab also has a third control lever, which is linked to the additional hydraulics on the PL wheel loader, and allows for easy and controlled operation of additional attachments.

Enlarged windows and generous rear-view mirrors give excellent all-round visibility, allowing the operator to see the movements of the bucket or other attachments for safer operation and increased loading efficiency. The PL model provides particularly good visibility within the lift arms.

Any shocks and vibrations are absorbed by the well-sealed and dampened cab, which also helps to reduce resonance. The Hitachi Silent (HS) fan helps to keep noise levels to a minimum. The PL model also has an additional counterweight to improve stability.

Reduced running costs

Running and maintenance costs are greatly reduced due to easily accessible inspection points and more durable components.

The water separator, fuel and engine oil filters are within easy reach, which makes servicing of the ZW180PL convenient from ground level. The new hydraulic system has increased hydraulic oil replacement intervals to 4,000 hours.

A reversible cooling fan with heat-sensing system allows for the removal of dirt and general cleaning. The flat cab floor and front frame facilitate effective cooling of lubricants.

The ZW180PL wheel loader has durable components such as HN bushings, axles, transmission and brakes. The new HN bushings increase lubrication intervals from 100 to 500 hours, helping to extend service intervals and reduce downtime.