Hitachi EX2600-6 Excavator

April 4, 2012

The new EX2600-6 hydraulic excavator from Hitachi is heavier than its predecessor and has more engine horsepower, while its BE-backhoe version features increased bucket capacity.

Estimated productivity increases are 13 percent for the short-reach BH backhoe, and 4 percent for the loader version. Loading time per truck has been lessened as well, according to the company.

The new EX2600-6 hydraulic excavator from Hitachi is heavier than its predecessor and has more engine horsepower, while its BE-backhoe version features increased bucket capacity.

Estimated productivity increases are 13 percent for the short-reach BH backhoe, and 4 percent for the loader version. Loading time per truck has been lessened as well, according to the company.

The bucket capacity for the EX2600-6 backhoe version has been increased from 19.6 cubic yards to 22.2 cubic yards. The reach of the backhoe front attachment has been shortened and the engine output boosted to achieve higher productivity with a cycle time equivalent to the previous -5 version. Because the engine output has been boosted by 7 percent, the cooling performance of the radiator and oil cooler has been increased to protect the engine and hydraulic devices. This is achieved through the use of a single 60-inch fan instead of two smaller, 44-inch fans.

Hydraulic pump output has been increased by 10 percent without degrading conventional cycle-time performance. This results in the higher flow rate at the same pressure, Hitachi says. Higher flow rate means faster speed. Pump speed is increased through a change in the pump drive gear ratio change. 

Inside the cab, LED lighting has been adopted for longer life and less heat generation. An optional interface with major mine management systems commonly used in many mine sites, including Wenco Fleet Management Systems (provided by Wenco International Mining Systems Ltd., a subsidiary of Hitachi Construction Machinery Co., Ltd.) is also available.

Although the Cummins engine model number remains the same, it is a different engine configuration to provide the increased horsepower. There is now a spin-on type filter for the pilot system for easier serviceability. A new exterior walkway near the right rear and across the counterweight allows easier access to key areas.