New fifty-tonner Kobelco SK520LC-11E for quarrying and heavy earthworks
1 With an operating weight of approximately 53 000 kg, the new SK520LC-11E is aimed at efficient operations in heavy earthmoving and quarrying
© Kobelco
The SK520LC-11E’s increase in performance is thanks to a new large and powerful Isuzu engine, which produces 348 kW output and 1980 Nm torque (versus 300 kW and 1700 Nm in the SK500LC-11). Best suited to general construction and quarrying applications, the SK520LC-11E also has a higher operating weight (53 000 kg) when compared with the previous model, leading to increased stability.
The new SK520LC-11E also benefits from high hydraulic pressure for greater lifting power at close radius, assuring smooth and steady operation while carrying heavy loads. In particular, the main relief pressure of this new machine has been increased to 343 bar in normal operation (Heavy-Lift Mode: 378 bar), resulting in a much higher bucket and arm force, enabling even greater lifting performance (21.3 t, versus 18.9 t). To accommodate this, the diameter of the bucket and linkage pins has also been increased.
2 The redesigned upper structure of the Kobelco SK520LC-11E ensures good accessibility for maintenance work
© Kobelco
For even more stability on quarrying jobsites, the SK520LC-11E ME (Mass Excavation) version is equipped with a short boom and short arm, where improvements can also be seen versus the previous model. The maximum digging reach of this excavator has now been increased from 10 880 mm to 11 330 mm, while the maximum digging depth is now 6920 mm from 6480 mm. In addition, while the SK520LC-11E’s undercarriage remains the same width as the previous model (3.35 m), which is important for transportation purposes, the upper structure has been increased to 3.2 m and completely redesigned. There are now two routes to access the upper deck, one on the left side and one on the right side, making it more convenient for machine maintenance, including easier inspection and cleaning of the machine’s cooling system elements.
Like the previous SK500LC-11, the new SK520LC-11E also follows Kobelco’s Performance x Design concept, boasting a high quality standard in cabin design, ergonomics, comfort and safety. The Kobelco-branded Grammer heated and air suspended seat provides excellent shock absorption and superior ride comfort for operators working long hours on tough jobsites. The seat also moves along with the armrests and hydraulic controls. The easy-to-use jog dial controls multiple functions on the large 10-inch colour monitor and can be operated even with gloved hands. The SK520LC-11E also comes with air conditioning as standard and the cabin is equipped with a DAB+ radio (FM/AM, AUX, USB, Bluetooth and hands-free telephone) and a 12 V power outlet for an improved operator experience. Excellent visibility on the jobsite is provided via three standard cameras located on the left, right and rear sides of the machine (offering birds-eye and eagle-eye views), allowing the operator to customise viewing needs. The menu screen also facilitates reading of important information, including fuel consumption, maintenance intervals and digging mode at-a-glance, as well as setting modes for attachments.
