Bobcat News
September 2009
New 1 to 2 Tonne Mini-Excavators from Bobcat
Waterloo, Belgium. Hard on the heels of five new excavator products launched in the last 18 months, Bobcat continues the fast pace in excavator development with the launch of the new E14 and E16 mini excavators. Designed to be easy to transport, both models offer smooth, powerful performance and increased reliability and durability.
Click Here for more information.
April 2009
Bobcat Introduces New 8-tonne Crawler Excavator
Waterloo, Belgium. The new Bobcat E80 crawler excavator, which forms the latest extension to the range of Bobcat excavators, has been designed to offer optimum value to the customer through high performance with fuel efficiency, durability, operator comfort and easy serviceability.
Click Here for full information.
April 2009
New Generation of 3 Tonne Excavators Offers Smooth Power by Bobcat
Waterloo, Belgium. Bobcat has launched a completely new generation of 3 tonne mini-excavators, the 3.2 tonne E32 conventional tail swing and the 3.5 tonne E35 zero tail swing models. Both excavators feature smooth and precise workgroup control, exceptional hydraulic performance, enhanced convenience and comfort for the operator, as well as increased reliability.
Smoothness and optimised hydraulic performance
Designed to achieve the highest performance with exceptionally smooth movements, the E32 and E35 mini-excavators combine maximum productivity with the ability to carry out jobs with precision and fingertip control. The load sense piston pump and the closed centre valve enable exceptionally fine metering of hydraulic flow for smooth, precise control of machine functions, while reducing hydraulic noise. The boom and dipper arm cylinders are cushioned to provide a smooth, end-of stroke operation.
A thumb-operated boom offset control located on the left joystick enables improved control of the boom swing function while providing more floor space for the operator. This feature is in contrast to the pedal control used on many excavators of the 3 tonne class.
An important new feature which provides smooth travel in all operating conditions is the auto-shift travel motor which allows an automatic transition from the low to high speed range or vice versa. The operator can select the auto-shift feature via a rocker switch on the right hand dashboard. Alternatively, the auto-shift can be disengaged and the operator can use the switch located on the blade control lever to select the travel speed desired.
Unmatched operator comfort
Operator comfort has always been an important feature of Bobcat mini-excavators. In the E32 and E35, the operator area offers the latest comfort, visibility and space standards. The canopy and cab are designed so the operator has plenty of space for their feet and legs as well as a very comfortable work environment. The cab version is equipped standard with heating and ventilation. Airconditioning is available as an option.
The engine, air intake, cooling and exhaust systems, along with the hydraulic pump and valve are designed to offer a lower bystander noise (94 dBA) and operator ear noise level (78 dBA). This results in a noise environment unequalled by other 3 tonne mini-excavators. On the undercarriage, the directional lug rubber track is designed to offer a smoother ride with less vibration without reducing surface grip. Sealed floor plates and the routing of the hydraulic hoses below the floor mat and next to the operator seat significantly isolate the operator from undesired heat in the cab.
The E32 and E35 have as standard an ‘auto idle’ feature which reduces fuel consumption and noise and creates a more comfortable environment. The auto idle feature, which can be enabled at the operator’s discretion, automatically causes the engine to drop to idle if the excavator functions are not used for a period of about four seconds. The engine automatically returns to the pre-set throttle position when the operator moves a joystick or a travel function.
The E32 and E35 have 360° visibility from the cab with full visibility to the right track of the machine as well as to the rear of the cab. The wiper motor is mounted on the lower front window to provide superior visibility to the front. This design also reduces the weight of the front window, so that it can be opened with minimum effort.
The travel pedals, which are made of cast aluminum, provide smooth, accurate control of the excavator. When not in use, the pedals can fold forward for maximum foot room. The travel levers are positioned adjacent to each other, allowing for easy drive control, even with one hand if desired. This increases productivity when backfilling as the operator can steer with one hand while adjusting the blade with the other.
Enhanced reliability
Bobcat excavators are known for their reliability, an important factor contributing to the low overall lifetime operating cost of a Bobcat excavator. CAD techniques, endurance testing of components and assemblies under extreme conditions, and highly durable materials are used to ensure reliability. These processes underpin the design of the E32 and E35, which have the same upper-structure, cab/canopy and workgroup.
The boom of the E32 and E35 consists of a ‘4-plate box design’ with internal gussets that reduces weight, yet provides a stronger, more durable and reliable structure, offering increased lift capacity and smoother machine operation.
The design of the hydraulic components, routing of the hydraulic hoses and hydraulic connections, combined with improved assembly procedures, significantly reduces the possibility of hydraulic leaks and increases quality and reliability. ‘Quicklock’ snap-to-connect fittings for connections to the valve block ports reduce stress on the fittings as they exit the valve, further reducing the chance of leaks. Compared to the classical 90° fittings, the Quicklock fittings also generate less heat and thus lower the cooling requirements of the machines.
The undercarriage of the E32 and E35 features sealed, maintenance-free track rollers, a top roller and wide sprockets offering high resilience and a long service life. The ‘open’ design and sloped surfaces of the X-frame undercarriage help prevent the build up of mud and debris, reducing the time and effort required to clean the machine.
Access through the wide opening tailgate and sidegate simplifies routine maintenance. There is easy access to all service components such as filters, the battery and radiator as well as centralised grease points. The air conditioning condenser and hydraulic cooler can be easily separated for cleaning purposes, without need for tools. The starter, alternator and compressor can be taken out without removing the counterweight. Auto-tension belts help to reduce maintenance needs. The E32 and E35 also offer the protection of an electronically controlled engine and hydraulic system monitor with automatic shutdown.
The fuel fill point, which can be locked, is designed to make refuelling simpler. The counterweight, tailgate and sidegate can be removed easily for unlimited access. The tailgate is lockable and, since the sidegate is released via the tailgate, this design offers protection from vandalism and theft. Other security features include the lockable storage compartment under the seat and the battery disconnect switch.
Brief specifications – Bobcat E32 excavator with conventional tail swing
Operating weight with cab, rubber tracks and 610 mm bucket: 3327 kg
Digging depth: 3117 mm
Reach at ground level: 4980 mm
Dump height: 3437 mm
Track width: 320 mm
Travel speed: low range – 2.6 km/h; high range – 4.7 km/h
Auxiliary hydraulic flow: 63.9 l/min
Ground pressure with rubber tracks: 28.8 kPa
Engine: liquid-cooled Kubota D1803-M-D1-E3B-BC- 3 diesel engine, 24.8 kW at 2650 rpm
Overall dimensions: 2429 mm high x 1520 mm wide x 4662 mm long in travel position
Brief specifications – Bobcat E35 excavator with zero tail swing
Operating weight with cab, rubber tracks and 610 mm bucket: 3493 kg
Digging depth: 3117 mm
Reach at ground level: 5230 mm
Dump height: 3437 mm
Track width: 320 mm
Travel speed: low range – 2.6 km/h; high range – 4.7 km/h
Auxiliary hydraulic flow: 63.9 l/min Ground pressure with rubber tracks: 28.8 kPa
Engine: liquid-cooled Kubota D1803-M-D1-E3B-BC- 3 diesel engine, 24.8 kW at 2650 rpm
Overall dimensions: 2429 mm high x 1750 mm wide x 4820 mm long in travel position
Press contact:
Yann Le Flohic
Nouveau Monde DDB PR
Tel. +33 (0)4 72 07 44 94
yann.leflohic@ddb-nouveau-monde.com
Bobcat EMEA
PR / media representative:
George Schmalzried
Public Relations Manager
Tel. +32 (0)2 371 68 06
GeorgeSchmalzried@bobcat.com
Let's celebrate our 50th Anniversary!
Visit the Anniversary website at www.50-bobcat.eu
In 2008, we proudly mark the 50 years of the first Skid-Steer Loader and celebrate our position as the world leader in the engineering, manufacturing, marketing and distribution of compact equipment.
In 50 years of leadership, our company completely redefined compact equipment and gave it wings to become the industry it is today. Bobcat takes on all challenges. In all applications.
Our success is attributed to the passion of so many - our employees, our dealers, our customers - all those who together, comprise the greater Bobcat family.
Join us in the celebration of our story. Discover the many stories of our history, our brand, our people and our products in the pages that follow. This brand-new website includes photos, timelines and informational tidbits on special events and people who have helped us to be the leader of the European market for the past five decades.
Enjoy your visit. A 50th birthday only happens once. We're glad you're celebrating it with us!
Bobcat Sets New Benchmark for Micro-Excavator Market
Bobcat has launched the new E08 and E10 micro-excavators, designed and engineered to provide the best combination of high performance, stability, operator safety, ergonomics and durability in the micro-excavator market.
The E08 micro-excavator is a conventional model with a machine weight of 1028 kg and a maximum digging depth of 1.82 m. The E10 model is a zero tail swing micro-excavator with a maximum digging depth of 1.82 m and a machine weight of 1066 kg.
Easy to transport, the E08 and E10 micro-excavators are the smallest models in the Bobcat range. Both have a retractable undercarriage that takes the width of the machine down to only 710 mm, allowing easy access through a standard pedestrian doorway for work inside buildings or entry into back yards and gardens through narrow gates.
In addition, passage through low headroom openings is aided by the integrated foldable TOPS on both machines. The minimal width of the machines allows for excellent manoeuvrability in confined spaces, while the zero tail swing design of the E10 is an additional advantage when working in tight areas.
Thanks to a standard second speed range, the E10 is able to move quickly around job sites, complete projects faster and work more efficiently.
The sliding dozer blade extensions on the E08 and E10, a unique feature in this machine class, make it easy to reduce the blade width quickly in order to pass through narrow openings. There is no need to remove the blade side extensions and hence no need to find storage for the extensions when they are removed, as is required for some other machines on the market.
Once the excavators are positioned and ready for work, the undercarriage on the E08 and E10 can be expanded to 1000 mm and 1100 mm, respectively, for maximum stability in all working conditions.
The E08 and E10 are ideal for a variety of applications including demolition, refurbishment, landscaping, trenching, drainage and other jobs.
Increased safety and comfort
In this category of machine, both the E08 and E10 offer several important safety features for operators. A grab bar provides assistance for getting onto and off the machines. Entry and exit from the excavator is also made easier thanks to the completely open, flat area for the feet in the operator station. This design also makes it easier to clean the area for the feet.
The design of the E08 and E10 ensures that the boom offset cannot reach the feet, providing maximum protection in this area. Operator safety and comfort is further enhanced by the completely retractable seat belt on both machines.
The E08 and E10 have different mechanisms to protect the operator by locking out the controls and functions of the machines. The E08 features state-of-the-art mechanical controls and has a safety bar that needs to be lowered to operate the machine.
The E10 has advanced joystick controls, a unique feature in this class of machine. Both left and right consoles, which serve as comfortable arm rests, need to be lowered and locked in order to operate the machine.
The position of the joystick controls on the El 0 can be adjusted to suit different operators.
Another feature of the E08 and E10 micro-excavators contributing to operator comfort is the reduced noise levels of the machines.
Increased durability and extended life
A key feature particularly for the equipment rental, demolition and construction industries is the durability of the new E08 and E10 micro-excavators. Both machines are designed specifically for extended life performance and reduced cost of ownership.
Both the E08 and E10 models feature the 'cylinder-over-boom' design used on other 1-2 tonne Bobcat compact excavators. Since the cylinder is mounted on top of the boom, it is protected when working in tight spaces or with attachments.
Other features that contribute to the class-leading durability of the E08 and E10 are: the use of steel covers; the protection provided for the blade cylinder; the use of three rollers in the track system to optimise rubber track life; the asymmetric rubber track, which reduces vibration; and the counterweights, which protect the rear area of both machines.
The auxiliary hydraulic lines and workgroup hoses are mounted inside the boom and arm for optimal protection. The E08 and E10 offer simple installation for the hoses for attachments, which include a range of different sized trenching buckets, a grading bucket and a hydraulic breaker. An optional `Demolition Kit', unique in the market, provides additional cooling to allow the micro-excavators to operate a breaker continuously, even in warm weather conditions.
For routine maintenance, the engine hood provides easy access to all important service points such as filters and oil change. The external filling point for the fuel tank is positioned at a convenient height, making it easier to refuel, while at the same time allowing the operator to view the fuel gauge on the control panel. For security, there is a key lock for the fuel cap as well as the tail gate.
BOBCAT CELEBRATES 50 YEARS
2008 is the year of the 50th Anniversary of the Bobcat® skid-steer loader. As part of celebrations around the world, Bobcat will be hosting a number of events in Europe, Middle East and Africa(EMEA) during 2008 to mark the event. In addition, a special 50th anniversary logo has been created to ensure that this industry landmark is very prominent at every industry show at which Bobcat is participating in EMEA this year.
Neil Woodfin, President, Bobcat EMEA, said:
"Fifty years ago, Melroe Manufacturing Company, the forerunner to Bobcat Company, introduced a compact front-end loader that evolved quickly into the M-400, the world's first true skid-steer loader. The M-400 later adopted what has become the world famous 'Bobcat' brand and was a starting point for the global compact equipment industry. "In the last half century, the compact loader market has continued to grow to reach sales worldwide of over 100,000 units annually in 2007.
Whilst the company has gone through many changes over the last 50 years, one thing hasn't changed: Bobcat's commitment to outstanding quality, workmanship and innovation that has helped to maintain its leadership, so that today, one in every two skid-steer loaders sold is a Bobcat machine."
'What Did Bobcat Do For Me?' 50th Anniversary Competition
To celebrate the 50th anniversary, Bobcat has launched a new competition called 'What Did Bobcat Do For Me?' in which the company is asking customers from all over EMEA to send in stories about how they believe Bobcat equipment enabled them to work better, smarter and faster.
Neil Woodfin added:
"Throughout the last 50 years, the success of Bobcat has been built on the passion and enthusiasm of the people, not only in the company, but also the customers who use Bobcat products worldwide. Our 50th Anniversary competition will reflect this passion and enthusiasm among our customers."
An example of the many possible topics for the competition could be the superb performance of Bobcat products in a rental or contractor fleet or an important project on which Bobcat equipment excelled. All stories are welcome, and they should be supported by pictures, with relevant dates and names, etc... The 'What Did Bobcat Do For Me?' contest will run from the 1 st of March to the 30th of September 2008. Everybody who enters will receive a 50th Anniversary Bobcat baseball cap.
There will also be great prizes for monthly winners whose stories may be featured on www.bobcat.eu. On the 1 st of October 2008, a panel of judges selected by Bobcat EMEA will decide on a winning entry for the Grand Prize which will be a 5-day excursion for the winner and their partner to the USA to see the home of Bobcat in North Dakota. There will also be attractive prizes for second and third place runners-up.
Bobcat in EMEA
At the beginning of the 1960s, further improvements were made to the design of the Bobcat M 400 skid-steer loader, resulting in the launch of the M-444 model in 1963 and, in the same year, the first M-444 skid-steer loaders arrived in the European market.
From 1963 to 1965, demand for Bobcat skid-steer loaders in the European marketplace was met by products imported from the USA. Beginning in 1965, Bobcat skid-steer loaders, first the M-444 and later the M-600, were produced under licence in Europe for local markets, initially by Luff & Smith in the UK, then by Beltrami in Ravenna, Italy, and later by Scheid Maschinenfabrik in Aumenau, Germany. From 1975 onwards, it was decided to concentrate production of all Bobcat skid-steer loaders for EMEA back in Gwinner in North Dakota, USA.
In 2007, this culminated in the opening of the first new Bobcat manufacturing plant outside the US at the heart of the EMEA region at Dobris, south of Prague, the capital of the Czech Republic. Together with the existing telehandler plant at Pont-Chateau in the Loire-Atlastique region in North-West France, the initial $32 million investment covering the Dobris facilities forms part of a prominent new manufacturing footprint in Europe for Bobcat, which the company intends to use to produce over 80% of the products it markets and sells in the EMEA region by the end of 2008.
Our own association locally with the brand goes back over 20 years to the dealer Movemor Plant based in Templepatrick. Prior to that the brand was handled by a dealer in the Republic using local contacts for service, parts etc.
Present day dealer, Alan Cranston began his career with Movemor before taking over the company in 1985. Cranston Plant was formed later in 1985 and today is one of the manufacturer's highest selling attachments dealers.
Info: Cranston Plant, Mallusk. Tel: 028 9083 9297
