JCB launches Hi-Viz site dumper concept

JCB launched the new seven tonne Hi-Viz site dumper concept at Plantworx last week.

The exciting new product will feature:

• Reduced skip height and unique design, delivering huge improvements in visibility
• Longer wheelbase and lower centre of gravity to boost stability
• Operator Protection assured through a ROPS/FOPS Level II cab which incorporates a SIPS (Secondary Impact Protection System), allowing the operator to remain in the cab while being loaded

Safety first

The 7-tonne concept machine addresses growing industry concerns over accidents on construction sites. It has been designed and engineered to tackle these concerns by enhancing visibility, operator protection and stability.

The key to site dumper safety, particularly at the heavier end of the dumper range, is visibility. Current regulations call for the operator to be able to see a 1.5 metre tall person or object, standing one metre from the machine when un-laden. With JCB’s new Hi-Viz concept dumper, the operator can see a 1.2 metre high person or object all around the machine, even when fully laden.

There is also a need to improve the level of safety currently offered by a simple ROPS bar behind the operator’s seat. While the operator should use the lap belt supplied at all times, many choose not to use it in order to attempt to jump clear in the event of a machine rollover. To combat this, JCB has designed a ROPS/FOPS Level II glazed cab that can be used on machines above 4.5-tonnes operating weight.

Design features

In addition, the JCB seven tonne Hi-Viz site dumper concept has an integral secondary impact protection system (SIPS) built into the cab’s structure. This could potentially allow the driver to remain in the cab while the dumper is being loaded. This removes the need for the operator to climb on to and off the dumper. Therefore, improving efficiency and keep the operator in a safe working environment.

The big difference with the Hi-Viz site dumper concept is in the front chassis. The front axle has been moved forwards to make room for the skip to sit behind the axle line. Increased steering lock allows the longer wheelbase machine to maintain the same turning circle as a six tonne dumper. The front chassis is lowered behind the front axle, to allow the skip to sit much lower in the frame. Despite this, ground clearance has been maintained, as the chassis sits at the same height as the four-wheel drive system’s transfer box and driveshafts.

The new skip offers a 3.4m3 heaped capacity on this 7-tonne machine, with the width falling within 2.5m. The combination of a longer wheelbase and lower skip improves the laden dumpers centre of gravity, boosting stability on rough ground. Fluid load capacity is also increased to 2.0m³, ideal for working with concrete.

The forward edge of the dumper’s skip has been extended beyond the load carrying area. This provides improved dump clearance for the front wheels.

Available end of year

The machine will go into production at JCB’s World Headquarters in Rocester, Staffordshire at the end of 2017. JCB will build both forward tip and swivel-tip versions of the Hi-Viz site dumper which will be manufactured alongside nine other site dumper models.

JCB CEO Graeme Macdonald said: “JCB has offered a range of site dumpers under a supply agreement with a third party manufacturer since 2015. By manufacturing our own range, we have taken the opportunity to innovate and we have developed a solution that directly addresses safety concerns. This is good news for everyone in the industry and it’s good news for manufacturing in the UK and Staffordshire.

“We believe that the JCB Hi-Viz site dumper concept will provide a much safer solution for visibility, operator protection and stability.”