JCB is improving fuel efficiency, improving productivity and boosting operator control through the use of automation on its 3CX Super and 4CX Super models. These machines now feature auto idle, throttle lock and throttle control.

In addition, remapping of the TIV Interim engine’s software has resulted in further reductions in fuel consumption and improved digging and roading performance.

Electronic Control

Auto idle is a system that automatically returns the machine’s engine to a low idle setting when the excavator levers have not been used for a preset amount of time. The machine then returns to the previously set engine rpm as soon as the operator activates the levers. Reducing engine revs cuts fuel consumption, reduces noise and engine exhaust emissions and prevents excessive engine component wear.

Throttle lock is a system that acts much like automotive cruise control when the machine is being driven on the road. It allows the operator to set the engine speed while travelling, so they don’t have to constantly have a foot on the throttle pedal, reducing effort and fatigue. The throttle lock is instantly disengaged if the operator touches the brake pedal, activates a switch on the console or moves the transmission lever to a neutral position.

JCB’s throttle control allows the operator to preset the desired engine revs for excavator work. The machine automatically returns to idle as the operator swaps from excavating to loader operation, returning to the preset revs as they move back to excavator use from front loader operation. This permits the operator to set a consistent engine speed for specific excavator tasks, such as when using various hydraulic attachments, without having to continually reset the throttle position. By instantly returning to idle as the operator moves to loader work, the system cuts fuel consumption, engine noise and emissions.

Enhanced Efficiency

JCB has further improved its Ecomax Tier IV Interim engines, to offer increased performance with lower fuel consumption. Additional fine tuning of the fuel management system has resulted in up to 13 percent better fuel consumption at 1,500 rpm when excavating, with a 4 percent fuel improvement at 2,000 rpm. Likewise when roading the machines, the latest backhoe loaders offer a 4 percent reduction in fuel consumption while travelling on the road, further cutting ownership and operating costs for the customer.

For more information, visit www.jcb.com.

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