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January - February 2017
MODERN QUARRYING
11
ON THE
COVER
structure, as well as a high-strength
boom and arm, this excavator is designed
to excel in tough quarry applications. We
use finite element analysis with extensive
rig and endurance testing to make key
components last longer.”
All round-visibility is superb, with a
large glass area on the right hand side
and top corner of the cab. An innovative
low-level bonnet allows clear rearward
views. Operators are kept abreast of key
information via the 3,5”display, which can
be accessed via a new rotary controller. A
spacious stowage area behind the seat
provides plenty of room for an operator’s
personal items.
JCB’s optional rear view camera dis-
plays an uninterrupted rearward view
for improved operator confidence while
slewing.
The bonnet opens front-to-rear for
easy and safe engine service access. JCB’s
Safety Level Lock fully isolates hydraulic
functions to avoid unintended move-
ments. The 2GO system means a new JCB
JS305 can only be started in a safe locked
position via two separate inputs.
LiveLink telematics are fitted as stan-
dard. This is an innovative JCB feature
designed to maximise security and fleet
utilisation, allowing the monitoring of
information such as fuel usage on differ-
ent shifts.
“In the past, we had the JS290, the
240, the 360 and 370, which are UK-built
machines – and the 30 t market is one
that we haven’t really got into in South
Africa. However, we believe that with the
305, we are ready to tackle that now,” he
says. “Both machines are very competi-
tively priced and the enquiries and leads
are coming in.”
JCB 455ZX wheeled loading shovel
“If one looks at the backoe loader mar-
ket, we are probably some 10-15 market
share points ahead of the closest com-
petitor. JCB is very proud of the fact that
we are pretty much just under 50% of the
BHL global market. The new JCB 455ZX
offers premium quality and reliability;
the process we’ve used in its design and
manufacturing will ensure a reliable work
horse, and we’ve already had a lot of inter-
est shown in this machine,” Senyard says.
“We use state-of-the-art manufactur-
ing processes like robot machining, pre-
cision paint technology and innovative
assembly techniques to achieve the high-
est levels of build safety.”
Finite element analysis and rig testing
ensure superior structural strength and
durability, and the machine has under-
gone rigid hot and cold climate testing.
Recessed rear lights are protected within
the solid counterweight; the counter-
weight and cast quarter pillars also pro-
tect the cooling pack and the back end of
the machine from damage.
Other features include:
• JCB Dieselmax engines feature a
heavy-duty cast iron cylinder block,
cylinder head and forged crankshaft
to provide high strength and long life.
in a hard world
• Precision machining provides high
tolerances and accurate location of
the 455ZX’s pins and bushes.
• There are top quality components fit-
ted to the 455ZX such as the ZF trans-
mission and axles, Rexroth pumps and
a Parker valve block.
• The articulation joint has a heavy-
duty box section (much stronger than
a single plate with a boss), a heavy-
duty centre pin and oversized bush, as
well as twin taper roller bearings on
the bottom box joints. This setup can
tolerate both vertical and horizontal
loadings for durability and rigidity.
Steering rams are positioned high up
and protected from damage.
• The JCB Dieselmax 672 is equipped
with high-capacity multistage fuel
filtration designed specifically for
reliable operation in territories where
fuel quality cannot be guaranteed.
This consists of water separation and
a unique 3-stage filtration system
dealing with water in fuel, fine and
The JCB 455ZX is designed to move more
material for less and to this end, the
engine, axles, driveline and hydraulics
have been built to work in harmony.