New Hitachi ZX26U-6 and ZX33U-6 mini excavators displayed at Bauma 2019

By MEq December 16, 2019 18:46

The user-friendly ZX26U-6 and ZX33U-6 offer high levels of performance, stability, comfort, and easy maintenance. The ZX26U-6 model can be easily transported between job sites with two additional buckets on a 3.5-tonne trailer. It is ideal for working in narrow or confined spaces and is suitable for utilities, foundation work, landscaping, and indoor demolition or construction projects. Equipped with a Stage V-compliant engine, the ZX33U-6 does not require an after-treatment device, which reduces both maintenance time and costs.

Hitachi ZX26U-6
Thanks to an efficient hydraulic system, the ZX26U-6 is capable of high levels of productivity and fuel efficiency. Like the previous Zaxis model, it has a quick cycle time and a high workload. Operator comfort was a key factor in the design of the cab. It is easy to access using the entrance step, and the wide adjustable sliding suspension seat is surrounded by user-friendly controls within easy reach. Hydraulic pilot levers are used to operate the front, boom swing, travel, and blade.

Like previous Zaxis models, the ZX26U-6 operates with low noise levels for comfortable user experience. Visibility of the job site is enhanced by the large front window and a new optional rear-view mirror. The machine is equipped with new LED lights – one on the cab and another on the boom. These have a longer lifetime than halogen alternatives for efficient energy use. The optional auxiliary function lever (AFL) is useful for various attachments such as a hydraulic breaker. It has an analog switch for extra piping and allows for smooth operation and excellent control during maneuvers.

Convenient maintenance features are integral to the user-friendly design of the new ZX26U-6. The engine and radiator covers allow easy access, and more space around the fuel tank opening makes the new mini excavator easier to refuel. It is also easy to clean – the dozer blade openings minimize the build-up of dirt and make it quicker to remove, for example. The battery is on the same side as the radiator for easy maintenance, and the battery disconnect switch is now available as standard for added safety. The ZX26U-6 has an operating weight between 2.5 and 2.7 tons, an engine rated power of 15.6 kW, a maximum digging depth of 2.7 m and a bucket digging force of 22.3 kN.

Hitachi ZX33U-6
The fuel-efficient performance of the ZX33U-6 is due to the advanced energy-saving system. This combines the ECO mode, auto-idle and isochronous control features of the excavator to significantly reduce fuel consumption. The ROPS-compliant cab of the ZX33U-6 is spacious like previous Zaxis-5 models. It is easy to access using the entrance step, and the wide adjustable sliding suspension seat is surrounded by user-friendly controls within easy reach. Hydraulic pilot levers are used to operate the front, boom swing, travel, and blade.

The ZX33U-6 is also equipped with two LED lights (on the cab and boom). These have a longer lifetime than halogen alternatives for efficient energy use. New options include a sun visor on the front window and the auxiliary function lever (AFL), which is useful for various attachments such as a hydraulic breaker. It has an analog switch for extra piping and allows for smooth operation and excellent control during maneuvers. A second AFL for additional piping is also available as a factory option.

Hitachi mini excavators are renowned for durability, and features such as the high-performance bushings on the front, box sectioned rigid frame blade, D-section frame skirt, and boom cylinder guard ensure high levels of productivity and availability. The ZX33U-6 has an operating weight between 3.3 and 3.7 tons, an engine rated power of 18.8 kW, a maximum digging depth of 3.1 m and a bucket digging force of 27.2 kN.

Seigo Yamamoto, HCME Product Manager for Mini & Compact Products, says: “The ZX33U-6 may be among the smaller machines manufactured by Hitachi, but it is still powerful, fast and energy-efficient. The ZX33U-6 is an all-round excavator that can be used in a variety of job sites with different attachments. Hitachi Zaxis-6 mini excavators have been designed to exceed the expectations of owners and operators across Europe, and we believe that they will succeed.”