 LBX's all-new series if LX excavators feature expanded operator stations and an innovative computer system. The Link-Belts range from the 12,300-kg (27,100-lb) 130LX to the 27,600-kg (58,900-lb) 240LX.  |
LBX Co., LLC's all-new Link-Belt LX Series of hydraulic excavators features Inte-LX (or Intelligent LX), a computer control system that monitors hydraulic output, pressures, and regulates engine performance to balance the speed, power, and fuel efficiency needed to handle a particular job. The Auto Power-up function of the system allows the machine to respond quickly to changes in operating conditions, automatically increasing power supply without operator interaction and regardless of the work mode. Hydraulic pressure sensors detect resistance, and pressure is increased by 9% for 8 s.
The Auto-Mode function enables the operator to have a choice on how the machine is operated. Auto-Mode is activated from a switch on the control panel using actual working pressure readings. Inte-LX instantly changes modes to achieve the best combination of speed and power. The four selectable modes include Heavy Mode for extra power during heavy excavation; Standard Mode for standard digging and loading operations; Lift Mode for lifting and other operations that need fingertip accuracy; and Allied Attachment Work Mode, which automatically adjusts engine speed and pump output to match additional attachments such as hammers. The engine speed can be preset to match the hydraulic requirements.
An onboard diagnostic system allows service personnel to analyze up to 148 items in four categories: machine status, troubleshooting, history, and systems configuration. Inte-LX also has the memory to maintain machine performance records by downloading machine history to a personal computer. Its self-diagnostic system can be used to troubleshoot electrical faults and monitor key excavator functions.
Isuzu engines power the LX series. According to LBX, the excavators are the first to utilize an electronic engine control function. Fuel-injection levels are optimized to match the load to enable more efficient use of fuel. By keeping the engine closer to the target engine speed, less lugging takes place, so cycle times are faster. In addition, exhaust noise, vibration, and smoke are reduced, making the environment in the cab and around the machine cleaner and quieter.
Auto Power Swing is a patent-pending design that incorporates a selector valve to help maintain attachment and swing flows to achieve improved swing and digging forces in side wall-cut operations. In normal digging when side pressure is not needed, LX sends all the flow to the attachment to ensure the best performance for either operation.
The two-speed boom lifting and arm opening function provides the LX series with top-of-its-class lifting speed, especially in swing/excavating simultaneous operations such as truck loading. When operating in difficult travel conditions, the travel motor automatically downshifts from high to low speed for increased tractive effort, then automatically returns to high speed when travel conditions permit.
The LX Series features a wide cab design that provides expanded leg and elbow room as well as easy entering and exiting of the cab. Six silicon-filled isolation mounts float the entire cab above the noise and vibration of the machine to reduce operator fatigue. The KAB 515 seat slides independently of the control consoles to assure optimal joystick positions at all times. The semi-bucket seat provides support and comfort with armrests, adjustable seat suspension, adjustable lumbar support, and durable urethane cushions. The joysticks can be tilted to any of four settings, allowing the operator to work in the most comfortable position. The entire platform can then be moved forward or backward for best foot pedal positioning.
Machine function switches are concentrated in a panel in clear view and easy reach of the operator. A large size LCD monitor displays a wide range of operating information such as engine temperature, hydraulic oil temperature, fuel level, travel speed, work mode, and engine idle. Additional messages include system/machine warnings and service-due messages in English and 13 other languages. Backlit illumination allows displays to be readable both day and night. The operator's "office with a view" has rear and side windows made of Lexan Marguard. The "rise-up" design of the window eliminates the need to detach the wipers when opening/closing the front windshield.
A Nephron filtration system eliminates contaminants of one micron or more in size, reducing hydraulic system breakdown and maintenance costs under normal usage. A main advantage with the Nephron system, according to the company, is that hydraulic fluid in the LX Series needs to be changed every 5000 h, as opposed to every 2000 h for most other excavators.
The LX series features a long undercarriage that incorporates heavy-duty, excavator-style components and improves both stability and ground bearing pressure. The modified "X-style" carbody is integrally welded for strength and durability. A high torque compact final drives allows the machine to go up steep grades and through deep mud.
Side frames incorporate a peaked saddle shape for reduced dirt build-up. Track adjustment is made easy with standard grease cylinder track adjusters and shock absorbing springs. Track rollers are filled with synthetic oil to reduce heat build up and for long-term reliability. The LX series incorporates strut-type chain links that reduce twisting and hold up to severe point loading when all of the machine weight is transferred through one roller.
LX heavy-duty booms and arms have internal baffles for the strength and durability to withstand torsional loads. Deep and wide box sections of high yield steel and deep groove welding hold up to high breakout forces, strong lifting capacities, and the stresses of allied attachments such as hammers, compactors, shears, grapples, and crushers.
Chrome plated boom foot and boom-to-arm pins mounted in grease-impregnated brass bushings make a durable and long lasting connection at the two highest stress points on the attachment. This also makes it possible to extend the lubrication interval on this type of pin to once every 6 months or 1000 h of operation, whichever comes first.
