Making a big impact: the Hitachi ZX48U-5 mini excavator

Designed to have a huge impact on earthmoving, utilities, general and road construction projects, the ZX48U-5 mini excavator is ideal for working in confined spaces due to its short-tail swing radius. The Hitachi development team created the Zaxis-5 range of mini excavators after listening to the needs of European customers. The result is a range of exceptionally versatile, comfortable and easy-to-maintain machines, which provide a fast, powerful and fuel-efficient performance on any job site.

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The ZX48U-5 can be used with a variety of attachments and has been given several features to enhance its versatility for a wide range of applications. A low-noise stack muffler has been fitted to the rear of the cab for quiet operation, which is an increasingly important consideration for urban and residential projects. The Zaxis-5 model has an auto-shift travelling system, which automatically reduces the speed of the excavator according to the travel load. This is useful when the blade is used for landscaping or when the machine is moving up a slope.

Operator comfort was an important factor in the design of the Zaxis-5 mini excavator range. The ROPS-compliant cab of the ZX48U-5 is more spacious and comfortable than Zaxis-3 models. It has a wider seat, additional air conditioning vents, and a larger door and front window for easy access and enhanced visibility.

Maintenance of the Zaxis-5 mini excavator is easier thanks to the convenient cleaning features and easily accessible parts. The radiator cover now has a handle and hinge, instead of bolts, which allows for easy inspection. Minimal space is required to open the compact sliding engine cover, which is convenient if the excavator is parked in a restricted space. The ZX48U-5 also features a spacious tool box, large enough to fit a grease gun and bucket tooth.

The fuel-efficient performance of the ZX48U-5 is due to the advanced energy-saving system. This combines the ECO mode, auto idle and isochronous control features of the excavators to significantly reduce fuel consumption. The optimised location of the cooling system and engine fan has also improved performance. The temperature within the cab has been reduced thanks to improved sealing, and cooling of the machine has been improved by more efficient water circulation. There is now a reduced risk of the excavator overheating on dust-filled job sites, such as demolition.

Joep van den Maagdenberg, Hitachi Construction Machinery (Europe) NV Product Specialist for Mini Excavators Sales & Support, says, “The ZX48U-5 may be among the smaller machines manufactured by Hitachi, but it is still extremely powerful, fast and energy-efficient. It has been designed to exceed the expectations of owners and operators across Europe.”

Specifications

ZX48U-5

Engine rated power 28.2kW

Operating weight 4,730-5,060kg / 5,040-5,370kg

Maximum digging reach (with 1,690mm arm) 6,060/6,260mm

Maximum digging depth (with 1,690mm arm) 3,360/3,830mm

Bucket digging force 32.1/36.9kN