Further improving its acclaimed JS range of excavators, JCB introduces its Tier 4 Final
engines in all models from the JS145 to the JS220. Body styling has also been updated to incorporate improved access to the superstructure of the machines and increased cooling capacity.
INCREASED PERFORMANCE AND ECONOMY
JCB’s EcoMAX Tier 4 Final engine employs Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR) with a Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF) to meet the 90 percent reduction in oxides of nitrogen (NOx) that is required by Tier 4 Final regulations. The JCB EcoMax engine has no requirement for a costly Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) or for regular regeneration that can often call for the machine to stop working while the DPF is cleaned.
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The SCR unit looks similar to a standard exhaust. However, the DEF is stored in a separate tank on the machine and injected into the exhaust stream before the SCR catalyst. As it reacts with the exhaust gases, the DEF turns into ammonia and water, with the ammonia entering the catalyst and reacting with NOx molecules to form harmless nitrogen and water.
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DEF levels are continually monitored by the machine’s SMART electronic control unit, with the operator given a warning as the fluid levels reach 15 percent. If the machine continues to work with low levels of DEF it will enter a limp home mode, with reduced power and engine speed, to ensure that the fluid tank is refilled and the SCR system remains effective.
JS models equipped with a DEF tank also benefit from a larger filler neck on the diesel tank, to allow faster refueling. A new pop-up in tank fuel indicator has also been installed to prevent over filling of the tank. In addition, to assist with regular maintenance, JCB has installed fuel taps to the feed side of the fuel filter, preventing fuel loss during service work.
JS220 series machines also benefit from the latest generation Kawasaki hydraulic pumps, which are 3 percent more efficient than the previous pumps used in the Tier 4 Interim machines. The hydraulic pumps produce increased flow, which allows the machine to run the engine at lower rpm for the same hydraulic output, cutting fuel consumption and noise levels.
Tier 4 Final models also have a 34 percent larger cooling pack, with both the charge air cooler and the air conditioning condenser now both fully hinged to allow easy access for cleaning. It is now easier for the operator or service technician to access the engine and top of the upperstructure thanks to new steps and handrails, allowing three-point access and egress at all times, improving safety.
JCB’s proven LiveLink telematic system has been enhanced, offering fleet managers and owners remote access to fuel consumption and operating data for the machine. This allows the manager to see which operating modes have been used and to determine how the equipment is being used on site.
JCB’s Tier 4 Final engine strategy builds on the success of the highly efficient JCB Ecomax T4i engine that has been in use in most JCB machines. Engines over 75 hp meet stringent
Tier 4 Final emissions legislation by using a compact, highly efficient SCR system for NOx reduction, while engines less than 74 hp require no after-treatment to meet the new regulations by using innovative, efficient combustion technology to deal with emissions within the engine combustion chamber.
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“ONE CAN” SCR SOLUTION
JCB’s recalibration of the Ecomax engine achieves the required engine out emissions requirement and results in a further 5 percent fuel savings. A compact selective catalytic reduction unit with a Urea-based additive will be used on engines above 75 hp and will be incorporated into a single exhaust muffler, in many cases replacing the existing exhaust. This provides a “one can” solution, delivering the same compact overall dimensions for machine designers.
The SCR system will use just a 2 to 3 percent ratio of Diesel Exhaust Fluid to fuel, as the engine is already providing exceptionally clean exhaust gases. JCB has engineered a space-efficient mixing system for the SCR that offers a reduced exhaust flow distance between the engine and the catalyst. This SCR solution has been specifically designed for off-highway use and has been thoroughly tested over many hours of use on real sites.
With this compact system, the Ecomax T4F engine delivers an engine package that, unlike many competitors, can be installed in existing machinery without bulky alterations to bodywork. This ensures that JCB machines retain their excellent all-round visibility and ease of serviceability. As with all Tier 4 Final engines, low-ash lubricating oils will be required, along with a DEF filter. However there will be no additional intrusive maintenance required on the JCB Ecomax engine, including no costly cleaning or replacement of exhaust filters.
DE-EMISSIONING KIT AVAILABILITY
As with the Stage IIIB/Tier 4 Interim Ecomax engine, it will be possible to de-emissionize the Tier 4 Final range, to allow machines to be re-sold in less regulated territories. All JCB dealers worldwide will have the technology to remove the SCR kit, reduce the fuel injection pressures, and recalibrate the engine control system to de-emissionize the Ecomax engines, changes which have to be made outside of the USA to comply with EPA regulations. A lubricity dosing filter may be required in some countries depending on the quality of local fuel. ■
For More Information: JCB is a privately owned, global company that manufacturers over 300 different machines from 22 plants on four continents including the United Kingdom, India, Brazil, and the United States. Equipment lines offered include: backhoe loaders, Loadall telescopic handlers, tracked and wheeled excavators, wheel loaders, articulated dump trucks, rough terrain forklifts, compact excavators, skid steer loaders, compact track loaders, compaction equipment, and the unique Fastrac tractor. For more information, visit www.jcbna.com.
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Modern Contractor Solutions, May 2015
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