Compact Versatility of Kobelco SK130UR

[MikePhua]

The Kobelco SK130UR represents a highly maneuverable hydraulic excavator engineered for mid-size construction tasks and tight working environments. “UR” denotes Ultra-Short Radius, meaning the tail swing is exceptionally compact—ideal for urban or confined job sites where room to operate is limited.
Kobelco Legacy
Kobelco Construction Machinery traces its roots through decades of innovation in Japan and worldwide. The company began with electric mining shovels and evolved into hydraulic excavators by the 1960s. It pioneered hybrid excavator technology at the turn of the millennium and now serves over a hundred countries through nearly five hundred dealer outlets. Known for durability and innovation, Kobelco continues to push boundaries in efficiency and design .
Key Specifications of the SK130UR
Here’s a refined list of core specs based on factory and used inventory data:

• Model year (example unit): circa 2000
  
• Engine: A-BG1T, producing approximately 85 hp (around 63 kW) from a 4.3 L 4-cylinder unit
  
• Operating weight: roughly 13 400 kg
  
• Dimensions:
  • Length: about 7.44 m
    
  • Width: around 2.49 m
    
  • Height: around 2.73 m
    
• Bucket capacity: approximately 0.45 m³
  
• Hydraulic system: dual piston pumps
  
• Travel speed: approximately 3.5 km/h to 6.0 km/h
  
• Swing speed: roughly 11.7 rpm
  
• Maximum digging reach (center): about 7.57 m
  
• Maximum dumping height: around 6.05 m
  
• Arm crowding force and bucket digging force: high enough for demanding mid-size digging tasks
  

Term Clarifications

• Ultra-Short Radius (UR): A design that greatly reduces rear overhang, enabling swift swings without risk of hitting obstacles.
  
• Operating weight: Includes the machine and its standard equipment—an indicator of ground pressure and stability.
  
• Piston pumps: High-efficiency hydraulic pumps driving boom, arm, and swing operations with responsive power delivery.
  

Practical Insights
A contractor in a cramped city alley once shared that the SK130UR let them work around parked vehicles and utility poles with minimal repositioning. The tight swing radius—just over two meters—was the difference between smooth operation and repeated costly adjustments.
Another story involves a rental fleet in Southeast Asia where short-radius machines replaced standard ones on congested sites. Efficiency jumped by an estimated 25 percent, as operators spent less time maneuvering and more time digging.
Suggestions for Use and Maintenance

• Operational Setting: Ideal for urban construction, utility work in narrow trenches, and landscaping with restricted access.
  
• Clearance Margin: Though ultra-compact, maintain at least 0.5 m buffer behind the rear tail to prevent unintended contact during swing.
  
• Service Checklist: Yearly hydraulic filter changes and regular checks on swing bearing preload extend uptime and reduce wear.
  
• Efficiency Tip: Engage economy mode (if available), which reduces idle RPMs to cut fuel consumption—especially helpful during extended waiting periods on site.
  

Broader Kobelco Context
The SK130UR sits within Kobelco’s robust SK series lineage—known for quality and versatility globally. While exact sales figures for the UR variant are not publicly available, its design fits a long tradition of Japanese innovation meeting practical challenges. Kobelco’s global reach—hundreds of dealers in dozens of countries—ensures parts and support remain accessible for these machines, even decades after manufacture .
Summary Advantages

• Exceptional Maneuverability: Ultra-short radius design excels in tight sites.
  
• Balanced Power: 85 hp engine and hydraulic setup deliver dependable performance in its class.
  
• Solid Design: Durable components and widespread service networks promote long-term use.
  
• Efficient Operation: Less repositioning required, saving time and fuel.
  
• Operator Friendly: Compact dimensions and responsive controls enhance comfort and productivity.