DEVELON has introduced the DX300LC-9, a 33-metric-ton crawler excavator designed for applications including earthmoving, site development, utility and underground infrastructure work, transportation projects, demolition, and material handling.

The new excavator joins the DX230LC-9, DX260LC-9, DX360LC-9, and DX400LC-9 in the company's -9 Series. DEVELON plans to eventually replace its -7 Series excavators offered in North America with -9 Series models.

The DX300LC-9 uses a fully electro-hydraulic control system in place of traditional mechanical pilot controls. According to DEVELON, the system can provide up to an 8% improvement in fuel efficiency.

It also includes several features to assist operators during lifting, digging, and material handling. Advanced Lift Assist displays lifting capacity in real time and alerts operators to potential tipping risks, including when working on slopes or uneven ground.

Breaker Assist is designed to prevent blank firing to reduce wear on internal components, while a weighing system tracks production levels and load weights. Operators can also customize joystick controls, including stick-steer and thumbwheel steering options.

Technology Around the Operator

Safety technology on the DX300LC-9 includes DEVELON E-Stop and Virtual Walls. E-Stop is designed to automatically slow the excavator when a person is detected within 13 feet and to stop the machine when a person is detected within 6.5 feet.

Virtual Walls allows operators to establish digital boundaries intended to prevent the boom or bucket from reaching designated areas, such as overhead power lines or underground obstacles.

An available Smart Around View Monitor uses six cameras, radar sensors, and AI-based human detection to provide a 360-degree view around the excavator.

Monitoring Equipment Health

The DX300LC-9 comes standard with technology that monitors engine oil, hydraulic fluid, the main pump, and swing motor. An optional version adds vibration and pressure sensors for additional diagnostics of the swing motor, main pump, and reduction gear.

Standard 2D machine guidance and machine control are also included, with compatibility for optional 3D systems.

Inside the cab, operators use a 12-inch touchscreen to access machine functions, including power modes and hydraulic flow settings. A dual-monitor configuration is available.

The excavator also connects with the MY DEVELON telematics app. A Bluetooth digital key allows operators to remotely unlock the cab, start the engine, and adjust the air conditioning without a physical key