JCB Hydradig Wheeled Excavator Takes Utilities Sector by Storm

The lower center of gravity makes the Hydradig stable during lifting operations, particularly over the tires, even without stabilizers or a dozer blade. As a result, the JCB Hydradig can lift more than other machines despite having a tail swing of just 4 ft. 11 in. (1.5 m), according to the manufacturer.

Tue October 10, 2017
Aggregate Equipment Guide

The JCB Hydradig 110W wheeled excavator and tool carrier is powered by the latest Tier IV Final-compliant JCB EcoMAX diesel engine, requires no diesel particulate filter (DPF) or diesel oxidation catalyst (DOC) and generates 108 hp (81 kW). The engine is side-mounted, placing the center of gravity up to 5 ft. (1.5 m) lower than other machines in its class.

The lower center of gravity makes the Hydradig stable during lifting operations, particularly over the tires, even without stabilizers or a dozer blade. As a result, the JCB Hydradig can lift more than other machines despite having a tail swing of just 4 ft. 11 in. (1.5 m), according to the manufacturer.

Power is transferred via hydrostatic transmission, and an all-wheel drive, four-wheel steer chassis, to achieve top speeds of 25 mph with no break in tractive effort as speeds increase or decrease.

The machine features three steering modes: two-wheel steering for security at road speeds, and four-wheel steer and crab steer capability for maximum maneuverability on site. The reverse steering option allows the operator to use all three steering modes while the cab is facing in either direction. Hydradig has a turning circle of just 12 ft. 11 in. (3.95 m) on single tires.

Even weight distribution between the axles and a long wheelbase delivers improved stability and a superior ride with secure handling. Reduced forward and back "nodding" when driving allows Hydradig operators to maintain higher travel speeds between job sites.

The machine can be ordered with single tires, extra-wide flotation tires or twin tires on each axle. Customers also can choose from parallel-lift or radial-lift dozer blades, or stabilizer legs, to suit any application. A choice of towing hitches can be connected to the chassis or through the dozer blade and a dedicated Hydradig trailer is available.

Monoboom or a triple-articulating TAB booms are available, with three dipper lengths to suit a range of applications. All dig-end pins are equipped with impregnated bushes, allowing 500-hour greasing intervals. The dipper-nose geometry matches JCB's 3CX backhoe loaders and compact excavators, permitting a host of buckets and powered attachments.

A high-flow auxiliary circuit is standard, and the machine can be equipped with two low-flow circuits, plus dedicated hydraulic circuits for quick hitch operation. Fully guarded hose-burst check valves are available on the boom, dipper and bucket rams for enhanced safety. A hand-held tool circuit is available to accommodate a wide range of powered hand tools, including breakers, road saws and pumps.

The Hydradig's ROPS/TOPS-certified cab boasts all-around, 360-degree visibility for improved safety and ease of use. The operator can see the ground to within 3 ft. (1 m) of the machine's footprint and can see the trailer hitch without having to slew the machine. Similarly, the stabilizers and dozer blade can be clearly monitored from the operator's seat.

Within the cab, a choice of mechanical suspension seat and optional heated air suspension seats further improve operator comfort. The machine features JCB's latest in-cab, 7-in. full color monitor to set working modes and auxiliary hydraulic flow, or program engine auto idle timing.

All daily service checks and regular maintenance can be carried out from ground level, with a lift-up engine canopy providing enhanced access to the engine and filters. The JCB Hydradig offers the best SAE service rating in its class, according to the manufacturer.

For more information, visit www.jcb.com.

This story also appears on Construction Equipment Guide.