Grade control tech options new for select Hitachi excavators

The grade management systems are fully integrated from the monitor in the cab to the components on the machine. Wire harnesses are thoughtfully routed and sensors are covered and protected from damage. Photo: Hitachi

Hitachi Construction & Mining Division, an operating division of John Deere Construction & Forestry Co., rolled out options for its grade control technology on select excavators – including 2D grade control and Solution Linkage 3D grade control, which allow an operator to set a grade and hold it.

The new factory-integrated technology increases efficiency while lowering daily operating costs by enabling operators to spend less time getting the grade right the first time, according to Hitachi.

“We gave a sneak peek of Hitachi’s grade control technology at ConExpo-Con/Agg last year,” says Justin Steger, solutions marketing manager of site development and underground at Hitachi Construction & Mining Division. “It’s thrilling to share this solution with our customers for increased efficiency. We know grade management technology is the future of the excavator industry, and we’re glad to provide a variety of options for our customers.”

With Hitachi’s grade control technology, the machine controls the boom and bucket as the operator handles the arm. This is especially useful, Hitachi says, because it reduces the need for multiple passes to achieve the correct grade.

Additional features

Solution Linkage 3D grade control with a global navigation satellite system (GNSS) controls position and elevation with respect to a global reference, while the 2D grade control manages the elevation of the cutting edge in relation to a benchmark.

The 2D grade control technology can also be upgraded to 3D grade control through Hitachi excavator dealers, the company says.

“Our 2D grade control and Solution Linkage 3D grade control unite advanced grade technology with the smooth hydraulics and fast cycle times of Hitachi excavators,” Steger says. “It saves time and helps make good operators great.”

With an over-dig protection feature, Hitachi says the new grade control technology lowers the likelihood of over-excavation by preventing the machine from digging past a defined surface or depth. With the prevention of over-digging, operators can finish jobs more quickly, reduce material costs and save fuel costs.

Hitachi offers customers four options for grade management technology: 2D grade guidance, 3D grade guidance, 2D grade control and Solution Linkage 3D grade control. Hitachi grade management technology is available on the ZX210-6, ZX210LC-6 and ZX350LC-6 in the U.S. and Canada.