Introducing the Series 7 Minis

Small in size, big on impact. Introducing the new Series 7 Kobelco mini excavator range

1 April 2024 – Kobelco Construction Machinery Australia is pleased to announce the arrival of the Series 7 mini excavator range. The new Kobelco SK28SR-7, SK30SR-7 and SK35SR-7 replace their dash 6 predecessors and offer increased engine performance, improved operability, an updated cabin interior and easier maintenance.

Despite their small size, mini excavators play an important role on any jobsite. Their small working footprint enables better access to restricted spaces such as residential gardens and inside buildings, while they can also provide key support to larger construction projects. With this in mind, Kobelco continually reviews and improves its mini excavator range in order to meet the increasing demands of their operators.

The new Kobelco SK28SR-7, SK30SR-7 and SK35SR-7 mini excavators deliver superior performance thanks to their increased engine output (from 18 to 19kW). Their larger bucket cylinders (from 65 to 70mm) also result in a 16% increase in bucket digging force from 27.8 to 32.2kN (SK35SR-7). In addition, the boom cylinder bore has been increased from 80 to 85mm for improved lifting capacity (SK35SR-7), while increased travel performance and an upgraded hydraulic system deliver faster combined operation. Fuel consumption has also been reduced by 25% using the new ECO-mode.

The latest Series 7 versions of the SK28SR, SK30SR and SK35SR cater for operating weight requirements from three to four tonnes, with base machine weights ranging from 2,930kg to 3,890kg. The zero tailswing design makes them ideal for operating in limited space, and a versatile machine for a variety of applications. The machines’ quick hitch piping has also been extended by 200mm, with standard tilt lines on SK30SR-7 and SK35SR-7 models adding to the versatility of the machine by allowing easy installation of tilt hitches and multi-function hydraulic attachments.

Operator comfort and safety was key to the development of the new Series 7 minis. The new machines follow Kobelco’s Performance x Design concept, which includes a newly designed cabin interior, to make long operating hours more comfortable.

A standard 12V port and AUX jack is provided, while the standard Bluetooth integrated stereo system allows the operator to stream audio. AM/FM radio and hands-free telephone functionality also come as standard, while the wider wrist rests and ergonomic levers reduce operator fatigue. The Grammer mechanical suspension and reclining seat on cabin models, coupled with powerful air conditioning have also been designed to make the operator feel like they are controlling a much larger machine.

The standard colour display provides important information including operating history, maintenance cycle, and fuel and water temperature gauges. Hydraulic Flow Adjustment (HFA) comes as standard in all proportional hand control models, and the hydraulic oil-flow to the attachments can be adjusted via the same colour display. To reduce downtime for maintenance, the travel levers are now removable, which improves accessibility to the main control valve.

To improve visibility on the jobsite, new Series 7 minis have been equipped with two bright LED work lights. Additional working lights can also be installed to the back of the cabin, if required. LED backlighting on switches and dials is also standard to improve visibility.

Kobelco’s short radius excavators also benefit from a proprietary Integrated Noise and Dust Reduction System (iNDr). The iNDr system provides ultra-low onsite noise operation, ideal for urban worksites, and removes dust from the air intake. It also enhances serviceability by allowing easy access to the air filter, which can be easily removed and cleaned without the use of tools, for easy visual inspection and cleaning.

Commenting on the introduction of the new Kobelco Series-7 mini models, Kobelco Australia’s General Manager of Product and Distribution, Mark Johnson, said: “We’re always taking on board our customer’s feedback to understand what they need from their mini excavators and how they perform on jobsites. As well as offering enhanced performance, increased bucket digging force and improved lifting capabilities, the introduction of the new SK28, SK30 and SK35SR-7 range demonstrates how we are developing our mini excavator technology to better suit the needs of our operators, and more demanding jobsite conditions.”