JCB is launching the brand new JS360 Auto tracked excavator to compete in the global market for excavators in the 33-40 tonne market sector.
The 36-tonne JS360 is the company's first entry in the higher end of this weight class. The machine combines high torque, pump flow and bucket breakout forces with excellent controllability - to deliver a powerful, productive and accurate new machine for heavy duty applications such as: demolition, quarrying, earthmoving and roadbuilding.
The JS360's 7.8-litre, 6-cylinder, Tier III-compliant Isuzu engine provides high power and torque and low fuel consumption and noise levels. Producing 212kW (281hp) at 2000rpm, the power is achieved through an isochronous electronic governor which reacts automatically to hydraulic system demand, maintaining the ideal engine output for a given operating condition. The result is greater responsiveness and quicker cycle times, significantly improving the productivity the new machines can deliver.
The JS360 comes with a 6.45m mono boom for easy transportation and greater lift capacity. The boom is available with a choice of dipper lengths – 2.1, 2.63, 3.23, and 4.03 metres – to suit differing customer requirements for reach, dig-depth, loadover height, tearouts and site versatility. Reserve strength is built into the fully welded structures for hydraulic hammer and other arduous operations.
Achieving Tier III legislation combined with electronic governing results in low fuel consumption per kilowatt hour. The hydraulic system and engine output are controlled by JCB's Advanced Management System (AMS). AMS offers a choice of four working modes - Auto, Economy, Precision and Lifting - allowing the operator to choose how much power and speed they need for a given operation.
Particularly beneficial given rising fuel costs is Economy mode, which as the name suggests, provides maximum fuel efficiency in normal or light digging conditions. It achieves this by reducing maximum engine revs, and dropping hydraulic pressure and flow.
High hydraulic flow and pressure also ensure maximum dipper force, drawbar pull and bucket dig force for greater performance. The maximum dipper tearout is 245kN, while at 268kN, maximum bucket tearout is up to 20 per cent higher than many leading competitor models. The outstanding power, precise control and extensive dipper range of this machine result in highly accurate operation - perfect for a wide range of applications.
All controls are clear and easy to use. The excavator boom and dipper are servo-lever operated to ISO control pattern, independently adjustable to the seat. For optimum productivity, the JS360 has exceptional controllability and evenly matched working speeds for the boom and arm. Boom/slew priority as standard speeds up truck loading.
Service access on the JS360 is excellent –with ground-level servicing not only reducing downtime but also offering greater safety for technicians working in the field by eradicating the need to climb on to the upper structure. A swing-out access cover makes getting to the engine sump very simple and there is a quickfit drain pipe for use on engine-oil and fuel-tank drain plugs. All the steps and top covers are fitted with non-slip, heavy-duty panels. As part of the in-cab AMS, a digital display enables engine oil checks, and remote engine oil and fuel filter checks.
A comfortable, fully adjustable high-backed suspension seat and automated climate control as standard reduces operator fatigue. Importantly for added comfort all controls are ergonomically positioned within 180º of the operator, eliminating the need for twisting around. A large door provides easy access to the cab, with a completely flat floor suitable for easy cleaning. Also available as an option is a heated air suspension seat.