Press releases | 09/17/2014

Liebherr crawler excavator R 914 Compact at the 2014 GaLaBau trade fair

Powerful machine with compact dimensions
Maintenance-free oxidation catalyst reduces emissions and operating costs
Convenient and fast access to all service positions

At the 2014 GaLaBau trade fair, Liebherr is presenting the crawler excavator R 914 Compact, which supplements the product program of compact crawler excavators. The compact excavator was first presented at the 2013 Bauma trade fair in Munich (Germany). The design of this 15 tonne machine is based on the same concept as the A 914 Compact and A 918 Compact wheeled excavators that have already achieved market success.

With its 80 kW (109 hp) Deutz diesel engine, the R 914 Compact complies with the Stage IIIB exhaust emission limits without needing a diesel particulate filter. The maintenance-free oxidating catalytic converter not only reduces emissions but keeps operating costs low as well. A particulate filter is available ex-factory as an option. This engine makes efficient use of fuel and develops ample torque. Its maximum power output is available at a low engine speed, so that loads on components are lower with no sacrifice in performance.

The dimensions of the R 914 Compact permit a tail swing radius of only 1,550 millimetres. Thanks to its high grabbing force and general performance level, this is the ideal machine for landscaping, road works, drainage and all construction-site work that has to be carried out within a limited space.

Innovative servicing concept

The R 914 Compact has a large engine cover that exposes the entire right-hand side of the machine and ensures quick, convenient access to all servicing points. Since daily maintenance work can be performed from ground level, maintenance times are shorter and the work becomes safer.

The fully-automatic central lubricating system is part of the servicing concept; it supplies the various lubricating points while the machine is in operation. To simplify cleaning of the radiator, which is of generous size, the powerful cooling fan can be swung forward after two bolts have been unscrewed. Another standard feature is a magnetic rod in the hydraulic fluid tank; it is easy to clean when necessary, prolongs the useful life of the hydraulic fluid and acts as a reliable indicator that servicing is due.

Strong undercarriage, many different equipment options

For the undercarriage of the R 914 Compact, which has a track width of 2,000 mm and a wheelbase of 3,000 mm, steel track pads are available in 500 mm, 600 mm and 700 mm widths. For easily damaged sub-surfaces or when working on asphalt or concrete surfaces, 500 mm wide rubber-coated track pads can be supplied for the standard steel tracks. Attaching them instead of using rubber tracks keeps operating costs low, since these track pads can be easily be replaced individually during servicing work.

To increase load capacity and when grading work is carried out, the undercarriage of the R 914 Compact can be equipped with a strong, solid blade; this includes standard load retaining valves. This blade is absolutely maintenance-free and needs no lubrication.

The choice of working equipment for the R 914 Compact includes a luffing boom, a boom that can be repositioned laterally and either standard or lateral-shift gooseneck booms. From the four dipper arm lengths – 2.05 m, 2.25 m, 2.45 m or 2.65 m – the most suitable combination of outreach and tearout force can be found.

With the fully-automatic LIKUFIX quick-change system, only a few seconds are needed to detach or attach mechanical and hydraulic add-on tools, without having to leave the cab. When used with working attachments from the successful Liebherr programme, this system can boost productivity by as much as 30 %. Tool Control, another optional system, permits oil pressure and oil content data for up to ten attachments to be memorised, so that the hydraulic attachment can operate at its full rated value immediately it has been picked up.

Well-equipped cab for fatigue-free work

The cab for the R 914 Compact is a new development, the largest in this machine category; it offers the driver the high standard of comfort and convenience needed for concentration on the task in hand and reduced fatigue. The standard seat is air sprung and heated, with height and seat cushion angle adjustment, a lumbar support, a head restraint and a lap-type seat belt. The ergonomically designed control panels move with the seat armrests.

The ergonomically correct keypad and the display with touch-screen function make it easy for the driver to select or vary essential operating functions. The large-area windows enhance all-round visibility and are therefore a major safety feature. Fully-automatic air conditioning is a standard item, and keeps the cab at precisely the selected temperature. Also standard: the camera which scans the area behind the excavator; an optional side camera makes a worthwhile contribution to safety, especially where space to manoeuvre is limited.

On the new R 914 Compact, the superstructure is locked into position for transport by means of the integral slewing gear brake. The settings of the complete hydraulic system have been revised to permit even more sensitive control.