LBX Company has introduced the new Link-Belt X2 Series of excavators.
Power is achieved in the X2 due to the interaction between engine power and hydraulic power. The engine, hydraulics and on-board computer are matched to provide maximum power, productivity and efficiency, according to the manufacturer.
Completely re-engineered EPA certified Tier III Isuzu engines provide increased horsepower and lower rpm. For peak performance and high-efficiency combustion, all X2 excavators have the added power of a turbocharger with air-to-air intercooler and four-valve OHC.
Working in synergy with the engine is the hydraulic system — so effective that an increase of up to 10 percent in hydraulic horsepower is achieved. Whether used in trenching, lifting, grading, mass excavating or running auxiliary tools, X2 Series excavators are designed with the hydraulic features needed to specifically optimize each function.
All X2s feature load-sensing, automatic power boost to power through tough digging conditions, or to provide plenty of power in heavy lifting applications. X2s also feature two-speed boom lifting and arm open/close functions in cooperation with system regeneration to provide increased digging, lifting and swing speeds in 90-degree applications.
In applications where swing forces need to be maintained such as cutting clean side-walls, X2s have the power to get it done in one cut, according to the manufacturer.
The X2’s on-board computer senses and evaluates each load and allocates power where it’s needed, never sacrificing one function for another.
Profitable
Equipped with common rail fuel injection and exhaust gas recirculation technology, the Isuzu engines used in the X2s are clean-burning and fuel-efficient. In the field testing conducted to determine productivity and fuel consumption, the new X2 series excavators burned up to 3 gal. (11 L) less fuel per hour than other models, according to Link-Belt.
Efficiency
The X2 Series of excavators are designed for maximum efficiency. Improvements in the Isuzu engine include: more compact design, tighter tolerances in the engine cylinders, and more net horsepower at lower rpm, and a common rail fuel injection system, which improves combustion efficiency.
Cooled EGR exhaust gas recirculation is used to improve the air to fuel ratio while reducing NOx emissions. Additionally, the side-by-side oil cooler and radiator configuration results in more efficient cooling of the X2’s engine.
Efficiencies in the X2’s hydraulic system are achieved through larger, more efficient pumps and larger cylinders with tighter tolerances to maximize oil flow.
Productive
Two-speed boom lifting and arm open/close functions work in cooperation with hydraulic system regeneration to provide improved speeds in digging, lifting and swing applications.
Arm Flow Assist improves arm-in speed and feel, and Bucket Curl Assist results in better bucket curl speed under load.
The X2’s hydraulic system is designed to provide greater power through increased pump capacities, larger cylinders and more efficient oil flow. The engine hydraulic circuits are designed for more flow to critical machine areas for maximum speed and productivity. Operators can harness this power through improved hydraulic controls.
Extreme control technology offers more responsive and precise joystick control, improving the operator’s ability to feel the load. And all X2 hydraulic systems feature attachment cushion for smooth, fluid-like motion of the arm and boom.
Additionally, the X2 excavators utilize SMART travel (Smooth Multifunction Auto-Regulating Travel), which allows an operator to simultaneously work and travel without significant loss of power in any function, keeping travel smooth and productivity high.
Depending on the application, different work modes can easily be selected to change machine output by simply dialing the engine throttle to one of the following settings:
• SP: Speed Priority Mode
Engine and hydraulic pumps are set at maximum output to provide faster cycle times for increased productivity. Power Boost automatically engages, providing 9 percent more power when needed.
• H: Heavy Mode
This is an all-purpose work mode that provides reduced fuel consumption. Power Boost automatically engages, providing 9 percent more power when needed.
• A: Applied Power Mode
Use this mode for lifting heavy objects or when performing precision functions. Power Boost stays on, providing an additional 9 percent system pressure to maximize lift capacities.
• Attachment Mode
Attachment mode automatically adjusts engine speed and pump output to match auxiliary attachments such as hammers. The engine rpm can be pre-set to match the hydraulic requirements.
Durable
The cab of the X2 has a reinforced tubular frame, and improved cab mounts secure the cab to the frame, which provides a sturdy, protective shell for the operator.
The X2’s boom is engineered to withstand torsional stresses. The boom-foot section is forged and the boom and arm-tip components are cast, providing increased strength and durability. EMS (Extended Maintenance System) pins and brass bushings with graphite inserts reduce friction, wear-and-tear and extend lube intervals.
Protective features of the X2 include a “parkerized” fuel tank that prevents corrosion due to water in the fuel and a protective mesh screen that prevents debris from clogging cooler fins.
The X2 Series’ Isuzu engines also are built with long life in mind. Equipped with glow plugs and featuring automatic “idle-start” and “auto engine warm-up,” they have “cold-start” capability with built-in features to extend service life. They are kept cool at slower fan speeds and feature a dual element air filter with in-cab restriction indicator to provide additional filtering capability.
The “Engine Protection Feature” systematically preserves the engine should the engine experience an event that could eventually cause a failure. And, all Isuzu engines carry a two-year, 3,000-hour warranty, on most parts.
Serviceable
Link-Belt’s “Extended Maintenance System” extends lube intervals to 6 months or 1,000 hours for all attachment pivot points, except the bucket. And with a 5,000-hour hydraulic oil change interval and a 2,000-hour filter replacement interval, the owning and operating costs of the X2 are kept low, according to the manufacturer.
Ground-level access to remote-mounted filters makes changing filters easy; to help prevent spills, filters are mounted vertically. Additionally, an engine oil drain “green plug” has a spring-loaded release and drain hose for an easier, more environmentally friendly oil change.
Adding auxiliary hydraulics is simple on the X2. The joysticks come standard pre-wired for open/close/hammer and rotate left and right. If pedal activation is preferred, the auxiliary spool is already built into the main control valve and three additional spools can be stacked.
Each X2 is configured with 10 pre-sets for flow and pressure, to easily choose the setting that’s needed for the tool that’s working. Adding aftermarket tubing is as simple as changing the tubing clamps to add the auxiliary lines.
In the event that service is needed on the X2, diagnostics are straightforward and quick. Link-Belt service technicians can easily troubleshoot the X2 with its on-board diagnostic system.
Comfortable
The X2 Series cab features expansive legroom, quietness and amenities. In fact, there is 40 percent more foot space in the X2. Comfort can be customized with vertically adjustable control consoles that adjust to four positions. The “KAB 815” seat slides independently of the control consoles for comfortable joystick access.
The X2 comes standard with a climate control system that automatically regulates the temperature. With selection and control of nine vents, air flow is easy to direct.
The X2’s cab provides liberal window space with an expanded right hand, one-piece window. There is 60 percent more visibility on the right-hand side in the X2 series. The sun roof allows clear views when working up high while providing protection from the weather. The sun roof also comes with a retractable sun shade to block out harmful UV rays.
All of the controls are positioned ergonomically and there’s plenty of storage space and a cup holder to keep items in their place. To obtain critical machine data, the large LCD monitor displays a variety of information in 14 different languages.
A control pattern changer is standard equipment on all Link-Belt excavators.
Product Support
LBX Company, the makers of Link-Belt excavators, provides a strong dealer network and other products and services. For example, financing options are available through United States dealers by utilizing LBX Financial Services (LBXFS). Also, dealer service technicians are factory trained at LBX to ensure the best maintenance possible. Link-Belt excavator dealers also have around-the-clock access to parts, the majority of which are distributed from the LBX Parts Distribution Center located on the LBX campus in centrally-located Lexington, KY.
For more information,visit www.lbxco.com.
Today's top stories
