Construction equipment supplier Doosan South Africa’s new advanced telematics and tracking technology, referred to as Doosan Connect, is designed to make equipment and jobsites more efficient, economic and convenient, says DISA Equipment Doosan South Africa MD Darrel Holton.

Doosan is part of the Capital Equipment Group (CEG) division of investment holding and management company Invicta Holdings.

The technology, which was launched this year, is a key feature of the DX300LCA hydraulic tracked excavator machines.

“For job site management, functions for the monitoring of equipment location information include Global Positioning System (GPS) and geo-fence location, as well as periodic operation and utilisation reports,” he states.

The system monitors operational trends to enhance work efficiency management. This includes operational and actual work hours of the machine, as well as provides information on the current fuel status and accumulated mileage.

“Filter and oil management forms part of Doosan Connect’s preventive maintenance, by monitoring item replacement cycles. Alarms are set for replacing consumables like filters and oils. The proactive service of this system encompasses automatic gauge monitoring, alerts in the event of antenna connect, alarms for equipment malfunction symptoms, as well as geo/time-fence alerts,” Holton explains.

A telematics terminal, which is connected to the machine, is enhanced by a dual mode cellular or satellite communication system, and the Doosan Connect Web service, which allows users to monitor the machine’s status.

The Doosan DX300LCA hydraulic excavator machines have advanced features for high productivity, improved operator comfort, enhanced safety and minimal maintenance requirements.

The machines are powered by an environment-friendly air-to-air intercooler engine that delivers the best output in its class, as well as efficient fuel economy. The new electronic Embedded and Parallel Operation (e-EPOS) system is connected to the engine electronic control by means of a data transfer link to synchronise the operation of the engine and hydraulics. This leads to higher operating capacity and lower fuel consumption.

Other features of the series include power ratings of 147 kW at 1 900 rpm and a side lifting capacity of 6.85 t at 6 m reach and 3 m height.

The machines, which possess a heavy-duty boom and arm boom, have exceeded performance expectations in tough environments, according to Doosan customers.

The machines have a bucket digging force of 18 t during excavation and notable traction provided by the improved drawbar pull of 25.2 t.

The hydraulic system, designed for improved excavator control, optimises efficiency of the machine in all working conditions, which reduces fuel consumption.