Short Radius machines are ideal for operators working on urban and residential jobsites and are increasingly popular due to ongoing requirements for roadworks and utility maintenance. With this in mind, Kobelco has revealed two new models to its SR range. The new SK230SRLC-7 and SK270SR(N)LC-7 follow Kobelco’s Performance x Design concept.

Kobelco first introduced the Short Radius (SR) concept in 1996 and now has the largest SR range on the market covering machines from 1 tonne (SK10SR-2E) to 38 tonnes (SK380SRLC). SR machines benefit from a smaller working footprint, which means that they can access tighter working areas and can even operate within one carriageway, so as not to disturb traffic when working on roads or when lifting utility trench boxes.

The Specifications

The new SK230SRLC-7 and SK270SR(N)LC-7 are equipped with a Yanmar Stage V compliant engine, which provides 127 kW output and 22% higher torque than previous models for a more efficient performance. In addition, the DPF replacement interval has been extended from 4,500 to 6,000 hours of operation, resulting in less downtime for maintenance.

Weighing in at 24 tonnes (SK230SRLC-7) and 27.3 tonnes (SK270SR(N)LC-7 with two-piece boom), the new machines provide extremely precise operation through excellent controllability and smooth hydraulics. Their longer undercarriages also ensure excellent stability, even when lifting heavy loads. For example, the SK270SR(N)LC-7’s combination of high hydraulic pressure (Heavy Lift) and balanced chassis layout delivers exceptional lifting capacity, which is ideal for heavier tools and attachments.

Meanwhile, the SK230SRLC-7’s arm and bucket cylinder have been reinforced, providing more digging power and durability. The plate thickness of the arm has been increased by 25% (1.25 times stronger than the previous -5 generation model). The bucket cylinder has been reinforced by enlarging the flange and increasing the rod side pin diameter from 80 to 85 mm.

Interior

As part of Kobelco’s Performance x Design concept, the SK230SRLC-7 and SK270SR(N)LC-7 also benefit from enhanced cabin design, ergonomics and safety features. The Kobelco-branded Grammer air suspension seat moves together with the armrests and hydraulic controls for reduction of operator fatigue, and provides excellent shock absorption and superior ride comfort.

The cabin is also equipped with a DAB+ radio, Bluetooth and hands-free telephone. In addition, the jog dial controls multiple functions on the 10 inch colour screen, including operating history, maintenance cycle, fuel and water temperature gauges as well as hydraulic oil-flow adjustment. To improve visibility on the jobsite, particularly when operating during the darker winter months, the new SK230SRLC-7 and SK270SR(N)LC-7 have also been equipped with two bright LED work lights.

Commenting on the introduction of the new Kobelco SK230SRLC-7 and SK270SR(N)LC-7, Kobelco Product Marketing Manager, Wesley Elverding, said: “Increased requirements for urban infrastructure, utilities and roadbuilding means an increased demand for compact machinery. The new SK230SRLC-7 and SK270SR(N)LC-7 provide the same powerful performance and lifting capacity as our mid-weight conventional machines, but with a smaller working footprint of just 4.06m (SK230SRLC) and 3.68m (SK270SRLC). The two new SR models will also pave the way for the arrival of the larger SK380SRLC-7 later this year.”