Kobelco introduces new heavyweight crawler excavator at Intermat

All-new SK520LC-11E reinforces Kobelco’s heavy crawler excavator line-up.

Kobelco Construction Machinery Europe B.V. (KCME), wholly owned by Kobelco Construction Machinery Co., Ltd. Japan and dedicated to the sales and service of crawler excavators, demolition excavators and crawler cranes, is pleased the announce the arrival of the SK520LC-11E. The new model, which replaces the previous SK500LC-11, benefits from increased operating weight, higher power and torque, improved arm and bucket force and a redesigned upper structure.

The SK520LC-11E’s increase in performance is thanks to a new large and powerful 15 litre displacement Isuzu engine, which produces 348kW output and 1,980Nm torque (versus 300kW and 1,700Nm in the SK500LC-11). Best suited to general construction and quarrying applications, the SK520LC-11E also has a higher operating weight (53,000kg) when compared with the previous model, leading to increased stability. As you’d expect from heavy excavators operating in harsh environments, the new SK520LC-11E also benefits from high hydraulic pressure (Heavy Lift) 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, resulting in a much higher bucket and arm force, enabling even greater lifting performance (21.3 tonnes, versus 18.9 tonnes). To accommodate this, the diameter of the bucket and linkage pins has also been increased. 

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 10,880mm to 11,330mm, while the maximum digging depth is now 6,920mm from 6,480mm. In addition, while the SK520LC-11E’s undercarriage remains the same width as the previous model (3.35m), which is important for transportation purposes, the upper structure has been increased to 3.2m and completely redesigned. There are now two routes to access the upper deck, one on the left side and one on the right side including a walkway at the cabin side, making it more convenient for machine maintenance, including easier inspection and cleaning of the machine’s cooling system elements. This model will also be offered with Drain Piping as standard.

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 for fatigue reduction. 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 12V 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.

Commenting on the introduction of the new SK520LC-11E, KCME Product Marketing Manager, Peter Stuijt said: “An increased need for heavy machinery to support on large-scale construction, quarrying and demolition projects has led to the development of our latest Kobelco SK520LC-11E. Building on the success of the SK500LC-11 and larger SK530LC-11, which were launched in 2022, the SK520LC-11E brings with it greater stability, a more powerful performance and more convenient access for maintenance.”