New Kobelco SK130LC-11 sets a high standard in the 12-14 tonne excavator segment

Kobelco Construction Machinery Europe B.V. (KCME) is announced the arrival of the SK130LC-11, a Japanese manufactured excavator that extends Kobelco quality, economy and reliability within the 12-14 tonne operating segment.

The Kobelco SK130LC-11 sets standards high as a direct result of precise manufacturing and high-tech design, with customer feedback also being a key element in its design process. The result is an excavator that delivers productive mechanical power, operating speed, refined operator comfort and fuel efficiency. 

Constant technical development has led the SK130LC-11 to be the first premium Kobelco excavator to enter the 12-14t operating class. This conventional excavator is powered by an Isuzu Motors Ltd R-4JJ1XDDV-A01. This latest generation turbocharged diesel engine features SCR (DEF) and DPF systems and is emissions Stage V compliant. Mechanical power output for the 2,999cc engine is rated at 78.5 kW (106.7 PS) to deliver strong work performance, including a best in class drawbar pulling force of 141 kN and a high-rated bucket digging force of 105.4kN. Together with its balanced chassis layout, the SK130LC-11 provides exceptional lifting capability and stability. An optional 600 kg counterbalance weight, plus dozer and a dual-boom options are available to order. 

Form and function unite to produce another key Kobelco excavator that maximises work efficiency in all areas including operator comfort and safety. The SK130LC-11 design includes a thoroughly modern and spacious cabin that features intuitive, easy-to-use operating controls and systems not unlike today’s premium automobiles. 

A 10-inch colour monitor – the largest in-cab visual information screen within the excavator industry – provides easily accessible and programmable menu functions, machine status information and provides clear rear and right-side views from the standard-fit upper deck cameras. An LED back-lit multifunction jog-type dial is the access point to all monitor functions. LED backlighting is also standard on all control switches. 

A revised hydraulic system promotes smooth hydraulic control in conjunction with shorter and horizontal control lever movements. This design alleviates stress and tension of the operator’s fingers, wrist and arm, while at the same time providing precise control movement. The new Kobelco-branded Grammar seat provides posture adjustment for operator comfort over a full working day. To combat working in high temperatures, an air-con system maintains the desired cabin temperature by way of two main cooling ducts (positioned at the rear of the cabin) and sub-ducts for an even flow of controlled airflow. 

Modern technology features throughout the SK130LC-11 and is geared for ease of use, which raises work efficiency. Seven pre-set hydraulic attachment modes (e.g. bucket, nibbler, tilt rotator and breaker etc.) can be accessed via the master jog-dial and on-screen selection modes. This system ensures a greater range of working versatility and the correct hydraulic performance is delivered to suit the working task. Furthermore, four customisable modes are available and can be pre-set by service engineers to extend the range of hydraulic operations for additional machine roles. Quick Hitch hydraulic piping is fitted as standard. 

Kobelco’s famed attention to detail isn’t always apparent. One such example is the new FOPS Level II roof guard. Previous roof guards have always been rigid mounted for safety and security. However, this latest roof guard features a swing-open door section so the external roof glass can now be easily cleaned for visibility without reducing its structural integrity. 

Other areas under the design spotlight include repositioning the safety valve on the cylinder arm to further minimise the risk of accidental contact with site obstacles, and the mounting lug dimensions on the standard bucket have been uprated to suit the available digging force. A large fuel tank of 280 litre capacity reduces refuelling downtime and includes a fuel cap that meets EN regulations to prevent fuel spillage. Parallel front window wipers are now in place on the front window and give a larger swept contact area – the wiper system also has ‘one-time’ use selection. Internal LED lighting that reacts to door opening / closure and main ignition on / off further promotes operator safety. 

Commenting on the introduction of the new SK130LC-11, Product Manager, Peter Stuijt, said: “The introduction of the SK130LC-11 to the UK and mainland European markets is a very important decision by Kobelco. The 12-14 tonne operating class is populated with smaller contractors and, certainly in the UK, rental fleet companies who specialise in lighter machines that are productive through being versatile, powerful and economic from low running costs and extremely competitive initial purchase price – the new SK130LC-11 more than fulfils these requirements. The fact it is emissions Stage V compliant extends the already impressive specification of this excavator. As do the latest operating features and increased operator comfort, all of which raise production efficiency by some degrees. All of the aforementioned are key purchasing points of potential customers. Add to the mix Kobelco’s famed reliability and durability, then it is clear the SK130LC-11 is the obvious choice in this operating class.”