Hitachi fleet provides high productivity and peace of mind

Three Hitachi ZW310 wheel loaders and a ZX350LC-5 have been selected by Heros Sluiskil BVfor its ‘urban mining’ operations in Zeeland, The Netherlands. Renowned for reliability and durability, the four machines run continuously for 16 hours a day on the 40-hectare site, where domestic and industrial waste are processed. Metals such as copper, aluminium and iron, are recovered for reuse, and bottom ash is also produced for use in road construction.

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Approximately 5,000 tonnes of materials arrive from a canal adjacent to the site every day. Heros Sluiskil relies on the Zaxis-5 medium excavator for loosening these raw piles of metal. The three ZW wheel loaders (including one -5 model) are vital for moving large volumes of materials around the site.

The Hitachi machines deliver a high level of productivity in this challenging environment thanks to a combination of Hitachi Parts, extended warranties and technical support from local dealer Pladdet. Covered by the Hitachi Extended Life Program (HELP), each Hitachi machine receives a full service at 10,000 working hours by the dealer. Hitachi Genuine Parts, including filters and lubricants, are used to withstand difficult working conditions – due to the abrasive composition of the waste – and reduce downtime.

“Hitachi machines are reliable and their construction is solid,” says Peter David, Head of Machines & Planning at Heros Sluiskil. He and his colleagues have peace of mind for the entire working life of their Hitachi fleet: “There are no hidden costs. We have discovered that the resale value of the equipment is sometimes as strong as the initial cost price as a result.”

Another factor in Heros Sluiskil’s decision to select Hitachi construction machinery was the first impressions of its operators. “They were involved in the testing of the machines,” adds David. “We rented a -5 wheel loader and their feedback made the decision to choose Hitachi easier. I collected data from the machine to present to the director and there was a positive reaction.”

Operator Sebastian Burdynski says that the Hitachi wheel loaders are ideally suited to his needs on the demanding site: “The machine travels smoothly over the rough ground. The seat is comfortable, and the displays and electronic dials are extremely useful. I also find that the steering and brakes are very responsive, and the overall visibility from the cab is great.”