Bobcat’s latest compact excavators boast class-leading breakout forces and fast cycle time to provide high productivity, while ensuring enhanced stability and lifting capacity.

Bobcat has launched the next generation of its compact excavators in the one- to two-tonne category with its new E17, E19 and E20 models.

These new high-performance excavators are said to provide an unmatched combination of class-leading breakout forces, durability, working range, smoothness of work-group functions, hydraulic output and fast cycle times, centred around a roomy and comfortable operator environment, and excellent service access.

“The new models are towable on trailers for up to 2,000 kg, with transportability further enhanced by new tie-down points. An expandable undercarriage, automatic slew brake and advanced diagnostics and instrumentation are just some of the many standard features included on all three excavators,” says a company spokesman.

Premium features contributing to first-class comfort and safety include an optional, unique-in-class joystick control of boom swing and auxiliary hydraulics with three selectable auxiliary modes for more precision and more leg room; optional auto shift drive motors and seat options for optimal operator preference.

The excavators have a new control panel that ensures all parameters can be checked quickly and easily in a single viewing, including standard readouts such as the fuel gauge and RPM (revolutions per minute) meter but also auto engine shut-down; auto glow plugs countdown; auto cab lights switch-off and audible alarm (in case of malfunction).

Other features include an easy-to-operate gas spring-assisted light and rigid frame front window, keyless ignition for optimal safety, a battery kill switch for storage and to prevent theft and an automatic slew brake for safe parking and transportation.

“The unique hydraulic systems on the new E17, E19 and E20 models make the best possible use of the engine power on the excavators,” says the spokesman. “Fast cycle times, combined with smooth control of the class-leading breakout forces provide maximum productivity. Boom and arm cylinder cushioning – another unique feature in this class of excavator – also increases overall smoothness.

“With enhanced stability and lifting capacity, combined with best-in-class proportional auxiliary flow, the new E17, E19 and E20 models offer the highest versatility in operating a wide range of attachments. Stability is essential for making maximum use of the digging forces and lifting capacities. Optimum stability is achieved by fully expanding the retractable undercarriage and using the optional long dozer blade. In addition, though it is a true ZHS (zero housing swing) machine, the stability of the E20 model is comparable to that of best-in-class conventional machines on the market.”

The superior dumping height makes loading trucks an easy task, while the reach at ground level greatly reduces the need to reposition the machines when digging, the spokesman explains. Picking up and placing heavy items are simple processes with all three models. In addition, these machines now come with an optional certified ‘object handling device’, which consists of boom load holding valve, arm load holding valve, hooking device and overload warning device.

When fully retracted, the undercarriage allows the excavator to go through narrow spaces; and, when fully expanded, it provides optimum stability for the excavator, especially when working over the side. Expansion and retraction are simple and easy via a switch on the control panel. In addition, to help dust panning on the front, the long dozer blade (optional for all three models) significantly enhances stability at the front of the excavator, allowing the operator to make full use of the breakout forces that the machines can deliver.

Like all Bobcat compact equipment, the new excavators are built around the operator, providing optimal ergonomics. The new cab design features large windows and narrow pillars to maximise all-around visibility. As a result, the cabs on the E17 to E20 provide an uncompromised operator environment which, together with the excellent visibility, provides the best possible operator comfort and safety.

“The new E20 two-tonne model is a ZHS excavator, which means that despite featuring a full-sized cab, it still enhances zero tail swing (ZTS) functionality by further protecting the front upper structure corners turning within the swing circle. The ZHS configuration in the E20 excavator, therefore, provides 320 degrees of free rotation when working close to structures, without sacrificing on operator comfort or performance,” the spokesman points out.

The use of highly durable materials ensures that the Bobcat E17, E19 and E20 models offer hard-wearing and robust performance.  All components and design features are tested under extreme conditions and the heavy steel gauge tailgate ensures extra durability and peace of mind while working.

The tailgate and side cover can be quickly opened to provide immediate access to conveniently located components such as easily cleaned side-by-side coolers and other daily maintenance and service points, reducing downtime to a minimum.  Maintenance and service work is further simplified by the diagnostics on the new excavators, including the error codes displayed on the control panel and service tool connection.