Bobcat has released four new Tier 4 excavators – the E42, E45, E50 and E55 – which include a non-DPF (diesel particulate filter) engine solution. The machines feature a new forward-mount instrumentation system.
According to Bobcat, the Tier 4 Bobcat non-DPF solution was achieved by designing an ultra-low particulate combustion (ULPC) engine. The ULPC is accomplished through a specially designed engine combustion chamber that significantly reduces the amounts of particulate matter created during combustion.
In addition to eliminating the need for a DPF, the new engines used in E50 and E55 excavators will have a 12 percent increase in torque.
The new Tier 4 excavators feature a machine protection system that monitors, manages and shuts down the engine if needed. This system monitors engine coolant and oil temperatures and will manage engine systems to reduce the possibility of these fluids reaching a point where the machine has to be shut down.
Another new feature of the M-Series Tier 4 excavators is cold weather protection. Anytime the engine temperature is too low, Bobcat says the loader will temporarily limit the maximum engine speed to prevent premature component wear or failure. Engine idle speed is also raised slightly to help the engine reach its operating temperature faster. As soon as the engine warms up to a predetermined temperature, the protection mechanism will deactivate.
Bobcat’s new forward-mount instrumentation system is designed for enhanced functionality and improved ergonomics. The new excavator instrumentation technologies can also help owners and fleet managers better understand and evaluate their performance and costs, as well as assist them with identifying opportunities to improve machine and operator efficiencies and protect their investments.
The new deluxe instrumentation panel and control switches have been designed to be more ergonomic for the operator. The previous instrumentation panel required the operator to turn to the side to engage the panel’s input switches; the new panel presents these buttons in front of the operator, where they are easier to identify and reach. From the operator’s viewpoint, the location of the panel also aligns with the existing cab components and work group structures to maintain visibility to the attachment.
The M-Series excavator’s optional deluxe instrumentation panel features multi-lingual functionality, similar to other Bobcat products. It also offers multiple capabilities from analyzing user statistics, to integrated attachment controls, vitals and diagnostics. The new instrumentation system includes the functionality to capture individual fuel usage and real-time fuel consumption, as well as idle-time data.
Among the many improvements offered with the new instrumentation panel, it provides for an enhanced version of the popular keyless start option, which can increase security for equipment assets.