Hitachi grade control tech now factory-installed

The 2D Grade Control technology can also be upgraded to 3D Grade Control, through Hitachi excavator dealers.

Hitachi Construction & Mining Division has made its grade control technology available as a factory-installed feature for its ZX210-6, ZX210LC-6 and ZX350LC-6 excavators in the US and Canada.

The manufacturer said that offering the models with the technology already integrated would help ensure that components, such as sensors and harnesses, are protected and contribute to machine uptime.

Designed to increase efficiency and lower daily operating costs, the grade management products are available to customers as four options; 2D grade guidance, 3D grade guidance, 2D grade control and Solution Linkage 3D grade control.

The 2D Grade Control and Solution Linkage 3D Grade Control enables operators to set a grade and hold it. While the machine controls the boom and bucket, the operator is free to handle the excavator’s arm.

In addition to lowering the number of passes, the technology’s over-dig protection feature stops the excavator from digging past a defined depth.

This reduces the chance of over-excavation and means operators can finish jobs more quickly, reduce material costs and lower fuel consumption.

The grade mangement technology options are available with the ZX210-6, ZX210LC-6 and ZX350LC-6 excavators in the US and Canada.

Justin Steger, solutions marketing manager, site development & underground at Hitachi Construction & Mining Division, said, “Our 2D Grade Control and Solution Linkage 3D Grade Control unite advanced grade technology with the smooth hydraulics and fast cycle times of Hitachi excavators. It saves time and helps make good operators great.”

Hitachi said using the technology, which was previewed at ConExpo in Las Vegas, US, last year, allows less experienced operators to achieve the correct grade more efficiently. This means more experienced workers no longer need to be on-hand to check the grade and are therefore free to carry out other tasks.

Steger added, “We gave a sneak peek of Hitachi’s grade control technology at CONEXPO-CON/AGG last year.

“It’s thrilling to share this solution with our customers for increased efficiency. We know grade management technology is the future of the excavator industry, and we’re glad to provide a variety of options for our customers.”

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