Late last year, LBX Co. launched the first four models of its upgraded series of Link-Belt excavators. Six years in development, the new LX series incorporates an on-board computer control system that monitors hydraulic output and pressures and regulates engine performance to optimize the balance between speed, power and fuel efficiency. The new excavators also have the largest operators' cabs in the industry, according to LBX.

The first four LX models (including operating weight/maximum bucket capacity) are:

- 130LX (27,100 lb/0.98 cu yd); - 160LX (35,300 lb/1.13 cu yd); - 210LX (44,800 lb/1.53 cu yd); and - 240LX (52,700 lb/1.87 cu yd).

The 210LX and 240LX also are available in long-front configurations, providing maximum digging depth of 39 ft 4 in. and 48 ft, respectively. The company expects to release two larger models - 280LX and 330LX - in the first half of 2001 and convert its remaining excavator line by the end of 2002.

With the new series, LBX adopted the industry standard model-numbering system based on the machines' metric operating weight. For example, the 240LX weighs 24 metric tons.

Automated operation The new computer system enabled LBX to enhance the level of automated control, which it claims can provide greater digging power, faster cycle times and less fuel consumption. Operators choose between four operating modes or Auto-Mode. The four modes are:

1. Heavy - for heavy excavation or extra power;

2. Standard - for standard digging and loading operations;

3. Lift - for lifting and other operations requiring precise control; and

4. Attachment - for automatically adjusting the engine to a pre-set speed and pump output to match the hydraulic requirements of an attachment, such as a hammer.

Auto-Mode is activated from a switch on the operator's control panel. The Inte-LX computer control system, using actual hydraulic system pressure readings, instantly changes modes to provide the best combination of speed and power for the job being performed.

Another function of the Inte-LX system, auto power-up, responds to changes in operating conditions in any mode. If hydraulic sensors detect resistance, pressure is automatically increased by 9% for eight seconds, without operator interaction.

Other features provided by the Inte-LX system include: - on-board diagnostics to analyze up to 148 items related to machine status, troubleshooting, history and systems configuration;

- password-protected anti-theft device;

- Low Idle Up, which increases the idle speed from 900 to 1,100 rpm when alternator output is not adequate to keep the battery charged;

- Auto Engine Warm-Up, which automatically increases engine speed gradually until normal engine operating temperatures are reached when the excavator is started in cold conditions; and

- an electronic engine governor that quickly responds to changes in operating loads to maintain engine speed.

Electronic engine control matches the level of fuel injection to the machine load, according to LBX, improving fuel efficiency and keeping the engine closer to the target engine speed. As a result, the engine lugs less, decreasing cycle times, exhaust noise, smoke and vibration.

Less maintenance In an effort to extend maintenance intervals on some components, LBX incorporated chrome-plated boom foot and boom-to-arm pins mounted in grease-impregnated brass bushings. The lubrication interval on this type of pin is once every six months or 1,000 hours of operations, whichever comes first, LBX said.

The excavator's hydraulic system uses a Nephron filtration system to keep out contaminants of 1 micron or larger in size. As a result, hydraulic fluid in the LX series only needs to be changed every 5,000 hours, compared to every 2,000 hours in most excavators, LBX said. Cleaner fluid also extends the life of hydraulic components.