6 hours ago
The Kobelco SK35SR-6E is a compact yet powerful mini excavator designed to deliver full-size performance in a short-radius, low-noise package, ideal for tight spaces and versatile tasks. Building on Kobelco’s longstanding reputation for innovation in construction machinery, the SK35SR-6E blends advanced fuel-saving technologies with operator comfort and reliable productivity.
Compact Design with Full-Size Performance
Despite its small footprint, the SK35SR-6E offers impressive digging power and reach. The machine weighs approximately 8,555 pounds (3,880 kg) in the cab version, with a bucket capacity of about 0.11 cubic meters (3.88 cubic feet) and a bucket width of 600 mm (2 feet) including side cutters. The arm length stretches to 1.67 meters (5 feet 6 inches), providing a maximum digging reach close to 5.5 meters (18 feet) at ground level and a digging depth exceeding 3 meters (around 10 feet). This is ample reach and force for a wide range of construction and landscaping applications in confined urban or residential sites.
Innovative Hydraulic and Engine Technologies
At the heart of the SK35SR-6E lies a water-cooled, direct-injection Yanmar 3TNV82A-B diesel engine delivering about 18.1 kW (24.3 horsepower) at 2,400 rpm. This critical component is optimized for both power and fuel efficiency, paired with Kobelco’s proprietary Energy Conservation Mode which can reduce fuel consumption by up to 25% compared to previous models.
The excavator features a sophisticated hydraulic system, including an integrated-flow pump that efficiently distributes flow to the boom, arm, bucket, and swing functions. With a maximum pump flow of 38.4 L/min and system relief pressure at 23 MPa (about 3,335 psi), the hydraulic system provides consistent, powerful performance for precise and smooth operations. Hydraulic pilot controls allow the operator subtle but firm adjustments on the dozer and boom functions, making the machine highly responsive.
Advanced Cooling and Filtration
Kobelco’s iNDr (Integrated Noise and Dust Reduction) cooling system is a signature feature of the SK35SR-6E. This system protects engine components by filtering dust from intake air with a highly effective stainless steel 30-mesh wave-type screen. It reduces maintenance intervals by keeping coolers clean and enables quiet engine operation through sound insulation and optimized exhaust paths. Easy access and tool-free removal of the filter simplify cleaning, which is critical when working in dusty environments common in construction.
Operator Comfort and Safety
The SK35SR-6E’s cab design focuses on spaciousness and visibility to reduce operator fatigue and enhance safety. The unobstructed view helps prevent jobsite accidents and improves precision during digging or material handling. Additionally, the machine incorporates a one-touch deceleration feature, allowing operators to quickly switch to an idling state and reduce fuel consumption when the machine is temporarily at rest.
Optional features include a 4-way blade for increased versatility in grading and leveling tasks, and an oil disc brake system that provides smooth and reliable stopping power. The excavator sports rubber crawler shoes measuring 300 mm wide, balancing ground pressure (approx. 33.5 kPa) with traction and stability across diverse terrains.
Performance Statistics and Operational Capabilities
Field Insights and Reliability
Owners have praised the SK35SR-6E for its reliability and low operational costs, thanks in part to fuel efficiency gains and simplified maintenance enabled by the iNDr cooling system. For instance, operators report significant reductions in downtime due to cleaner filters and cooling components, allowing longer operational cycles.
A notable real-world case involved use in an urban sewer replacement project, where the machine’s tight tail swing and short radius allowed efficient maneuvering around underground utilities without extensive site preparation or damage. The combined power and precision of the hydraulic system helped complete the project on time despite challenging space limitations.
Development and Industry Impact
Kobelco’s legacy stretches back over seven decades, emerging as a leader in excavator innovation by continuously improving machine efficiency, operator comfort, and environmental responsibility. The SK35SR series builds on this heritage, integrating smart technology such as fuel-saving modes and advanced filtration, thus addressing modern construction challenges including emissions regulations and rising operational costs.
With a global presence, Kobelco has sold tens of thousands of units worldwide, making machines like the SK35SR-6E common sights on jobsites. This model’s blend of compact size with robust features offers contractors and operators a competitive advantage in productivity and versatility.
Glossary
Compact Design with Full-Size Performance
Despite its small footprint, the SK35SR-6E offers impressive digging power and reach. The machine weighs approximately 8,555 pounds (3,880 kg) in the cab version, with a bucket capacity of about 0.11 cubic meters (3.88 cubic feet) and a bucket width of 600 mm (2 feet) including side cutters. The arm length stretches to 1.67 meters (5 feet 6 inches), providing a maximum digging reach close to 5.5 meters (18 feet) at ground level and a digging depth exceeding 3 meters (around 10 feet). This is ample reach and force for a wide range of construction and landscaping applications in confined urban or residential sites.
Innovative Hydraulic and Engine Technologies
At the heart of the SK35SR-6E lies a water-cooled, direct-injection Yanmar 3TNV82A-B diesel engine delivering about 18.1 kW (24.3 horsepower) at 2,400 rpm. This critical component is optimized for both power and fuel efficiency, paired with Kobelco’s proprietary Energy Conservation Mode which can reduce fuel consumption by up to 25% compared to previous models.
The excavator features a sophisticated hydraulic system, including an integrated-flow pump that efficiently distributes flow to the boom, arm, bucket, and swing functions. With a maximum pump flow of 38.4 L/min and system relief pressure at 23 MPa (about 3,335 psi), the hydraulic system provides consistent, powerful performance for precise and smooth operations. Hydraulic pilot controls allow the operator subtle but firm adjustments on the dozer and boom functions, making the machine highly responsive.
Advanced Cooling and Filtration
Kobelco’s iNDr (Integrated Noise and Dust Reduction) cooling system is a signature feature of the SK35SR-6E. This system protects engine components by filtering dust from intake air with a highly effective stainless steel 30-mesh wave-type screen. It reduces maintenance intervals by keeping coolers clean and enables quiet engine operation through sound insulation and optimized exhaust paths. Easy access and tool-free removal of the filter simplify cleaning, which is critical when working in dusty environments common in construction.
Operator Comfort and Safety
The SK35SR-6E’s cab design focuses on spaciousness and visibility to reduce operator fatigue and enhance safety. The unobstructed view helps prevent jobsite accidents and improves precision during digging or material handling. Additionally, the machine incorporates a one-touch deceleration feature, allowing operators to quickly switch to an idling state and reduce fuel consumption when the machine is temporarily at rest.
Optional features include a 4-way blade for increased versatility in grading and leveling tasks, and an oil disc brake system that provides smooth and reliable stopping power. The excavator sports rubber crawler shoes measuring 300 mm wide, balancing ground pressure (approx. 33.5 kPa) with traction and stability across diverse terrains.
Performance Statistics and Operational Capabilities
- Operating Weight: 8,555 lbs (cab), 8,214 lbs (canopy)
- Engine Power: 18.1 kW (24.3 hp)
- Bucket Capacity: 0.11 m³ (3.88 cu ft)
- Maximum Digging Reach: about 5.5 m (18 ft)
- Maximum Digging Depth: about 3.05 m (10 ft)
- Travel Speed: approx. 4.4 km/h (high) and 2.5 km/h (low)
- Gradeability: up to 58% (30 degrees)
- Drawbar Pulling Force: approximately 38 kN (8,520 lbf)
Field Insights and Reliability
Owners have praised the SK35SR-6E for its reliability and low operational costs, thanks in part to fuel efficiency gains and simplified maintenance enabled by the iNDr cooling system. For instance, operators report significant reductions in downtime due to cleaner filters and cooling components, allowing longer operational cycles.
A notable real-world case involved use in an urban sewer replacement project, where the machine’s tight tail swing and short radius allowed efficient maneuvering around underground utilities without extensive site preparation or damage. The combined power and precision of the hydraulic system helped complete the project on time despite challenging space limitations.
Development and Industry Impact
Kobelco’s legacy stretches back over seven decades, emerging as a leader in excavator innovation by continuously improving machine efficiency, operator comfort, and environmental responsibility. The SK35SR series builds on this heritage, integrating smart technology such as fuel-saving modes and advanced filtration, thus addressing modern construction challenges including emissions regulations and rising operational costs.
With a global presence, Kobelco has sold tens of thousands of units worldwide, making machines like the SK35SR-6E common sights on jobsites. This model’s blend of compact size with robust features offers contractors and operators a competitive advantage in productivity and versatility.
Glossary
- Integrated-Flow Pump System: A hydraulic pump design that optimizes fluid distribution for smoother and more efficient excavator movement.
- Energy Conservation Mode: An engine and hydraulic control setting that reduces fuel consumption during less intensive operations.
- iNDr Cooling System: Kobelco’s patented cooling and dust filtration technology combining noise reduction with extended component life.
- Pilot Controls: Hydraulic controls enabling precise, smooth operation of excavator attachments.
- Gradeability: The maximum slope angle a machine can climb under load without losing traction.
- Drawbar Pulling Force: The pulling power of a machine, reflecting its ability to move or tow loads.
