Product feature: Kobelco SK500XDLC-10

Date: 23.01.2024

In a significant move, AgTrans Ltd has embarked on a substantial project involving the purchase of the powerful Kobelco SK500XDLC-10 heavy excavator

The SK500XDLC-10 excavator complements CJ’s 40-tonne Doosan dump truck, loading them efficiently with four and a half buckets

The endeavour is part of Christian (CJ) Mahony’s side project, sculpting 25 hectares of farmland into a development featuring 31 commercial lots and eventually 78 residential lots, illustrating his lifelong passion for earthmoving machinery.

Having engaged local iwi, geo technicians, and engineers, CJ’s project boasts a collaborative effort with numerous consultants, focusing primarily on the commercial aspect, while eyeing completion within the next seven years.

CJ stands proudly beside his newly acquired SK500XDLC-10

The venture into Kobelco machinery is not a coincidence; rather it’s based on solid recommendations from trusted contractors who’ve experienced the reliability of Kobelco equipment.

Recognising its value without compromising quality or return on investment, CJ’s initial venture into Kobelco was with the SK17SR mini excavator — a fixture in his rental fleet for more than 15 years.

Transitioning this year to the SK500XDLC-10 heavy excavator, CJ’s decision was strengthened by calculated diesel savings.

The comparison between the SK480LC and the new 52-tonne excavator showcased substantial fuel economies, effectively offsetting the machine’s cost against the significant 600,000 cubic metre dirt movement requirement for his project.

Despite its size, CJ is impressed with the SK500XDLC-10 large excavator, emphasising its efficiency and suitability for his operations.

The new Kobelco digger complements his 40-tonne Doosan dump trucks seamlessly, loading them efficiently in just four-and-a-half buckets.

The SK500XDLC-10 is engineered and designed to excel on even the most challenging terrains

Its performance on varied terrains, including hills and wet surfaces, has proven both economical and impressive, consuming what he says is a mere 32 litres per hour during heavy-duty tasks.

SK500XDLC-10 spacious cabin, with ample space, increased headroom, and seamless entry and exit

For CJ, a well-appointed cabin is pivotal, enabling productivity while maintaining connectivity through hands-free cell phone features.

The excavator’s comfort and efficiency have made a lasting impression, leading him to declare that smaller excavators are no longer a consideration due to their reduced efficiency compared to the larger Kobelco excavator.

The XD Arm - Enhanced steel plate thickness on the arm’s top and foot amplifies strength, ensuring robustness in the most grueling work environments

While acknowledging that the SK500XDLC-10 may seem oversized for certain tasks, CJ emphasises its efficiency in accomplishing tasks that would otherwise require multiple efforts with smaller excavators.

His preference now firmly resides with larger excavators, citing their comfort and heightened productivity as irreplaceable advantages in his construction endeavours.

For more information, visit kobelco.co.nz.

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