JCB has launched its latest 38-tonne excavator in the Middle East market, the JS385LC HD, which was unveiled at a launch event and demonstration on March 1 in Dubai to the press from the region and beyond.
The new JS385LC HD builds on the success of JCB’s popular JS370, with a host of strengthened and reinforced features, designed to maximise durability and reliability in the toughest operating conditions. The JS385LC HD weighs in at 37.3-38 tonnes, with a maximum digging reach of 10.58m and a digging depth of 6.82m from the longer 2.63m dipper. A shorter 2.21m mass excavation dipper arm is also available.
Both the monoboom and the dipper have been constructed of high-tensile steels, using larger sections of material, to withstand additional stress. There are also strengthening plates and heavy-duty wear strips along the inside of the dipper, adding to its durability. The rigid upper frame provides a sturdy base for the work equipment, with reinforced side members alongside the upper structure to protect against accidental impact.
This thorough upgrade is continued below the waistline, where the machine boasts a heavy-duty X-type track frame with reinforced idler section. The track frame is reinforced at the idler mounting for increased strength when working in a quarry application. The frame has thick top and bottom plates, for ultimate durability and a belly guard on the lower frame protects the rotary joints and hoses.
Three track guides per side ensure that track chains stay in place and HD track shoes sit on heavy-duty track chains with larger links and rollers, to prolong service life. The travel motors are enclosed with a heavy steel bolted cover and the travel gear box has been designed to keep the mounting bolts away from potential damage.
JCB design to perform in all conditions
JCB’s powerful six-cylinder Dieselmax 672 diesel engine delivers 212kW (284hp) and a massive 1,150Nm of torque. The JS385LC HD utilises quality Japanese hydraulic components, with twin 304 litre/min Kawasaki pumps and a Kayaba main control valve, ensuring that the JS385LC HD delivers in the toughest conditions. Maximum bucket tearout is 262.7kN, while dipper tearout is 254.9kN.
The machine has eight user-friendly operating modes, including three lifting modes and four digging modes, allowing the operator to set the performance for each application. A power boost function increases hydraulic pressure by 9%, for higher digging and lifting performance. Advanced eco hydraulic technologies regenerate power from the lift and dipper cylinders as the boom is lowered, while Auto Idler and One Touch idle functions are also standard, ensuring the maximum fuel efficiency.
Comfort and control
The JS385LC HD is equipped with a spacious operator’s cab, that sits on six viscous mounts, to reduce noise and vibration in the cab. A large glazed area ensures maximum visibility all round and the cab comes with air conditioning as standard. The machine benefits from a full range of mirrors and working lights.
JCB’s Smart Control System features a clear, colour screen and rotary controller that allows the operator to check vital machine functions, such as engine oil, fuel and coolant levels. The self-diagnostic system can also detect water within the fuel, warning the operator to schedule maintenance before a problem occurs.
The majority of daily checks and regular service points can be accessed at ground level, while non-slip, tread plates are standard on the top of the body and ergonomic handles also assist service access. The cooling pack uses side-by-side coolers with a fly screen covering to prevent the build up of dust. The air filter elements have also been specifically designed to ensure high dust holding capacity.
JCB’s class-leading LiveLink telematics monitoring system is also standard, allowing customers to remotely monitor machine condition, working hours, location and machine history. Long service hours come as standard, helping to reduce total cost of ownership (TCO). Engine oil, oil filter and fuel filter changes are set at 500 hours, while the hydraulic main filter is set for renewal at 1,000 hours. The hydraulic oil is replaced at 5,000-hour intervals.
Bucket options for the new JCB include1.8m3 HD, 2.1m3 HD and 2.3m3 HD, specifically designed for quarry applications and enhanced bucket life. The heavy-duty buckets are equipped with reinforcing that provides protection from external impact, to prevent wear while handling rocks and other abrasive materials.
With high productivity, maximum efficiency and low total cost of ownership, the new JCB JS385LC HD offers the perfect solution for customers in the mining, quarrying and civil engineering sectors.