The EX 120 Excavator: Understanding its Weight Class and Capabilities

[MikePhua]

The EX 120 is a hydraulic excavator produced by Hitachi Construction Machinery, a global leader in the construction and mining equipment industry. With a strong reputation for delivering high-performance machinery, Hitachi’s EX series excavators have become popular among operators for their reliability, versatility, and robust construction. Understanding the EX 120’s weight class, its operational range, and how it compares to other machines in its category is essential for anyone in construction, demolition, or heavy machinery industries.
Overview of Hitachi’s Excavator Lineup
Founded in 1970, Hitachi Construction Machinery has built a legacy of designing and manufacturing equipment that excels in both the mining and construction sectors. The company is known for producing machines that combine advanced technology, user-friendly operation, and long-lasting durability. The EX 120 is part of their EX series, which includes a wide range of hydraulic excavators designed for various applications, from light construction to heavy earthmoving.
The EX 120, in particular, falls into the medium-weight class of Hitachi’s excavators, suitable for a variety of tasks, including digging, lifting, grading, and material handling. It is an ideal choice for those who need a reliable and powerful machine without stepping up to the larger, more expensive models.
EX 120 Weight Class and Specifications
The EX 120 falls into the 12-ton weight class, making it a medium-sized hydraulic excavator. Its weight and capabilities make it well-suited for a range of construction and material handling tasks, as well as urban development projects where space is limited, but higher power is still needed. Below are some of the key specifications for the EX 120:

• Operating Weight: Approximately 12,000 kg (12 tons).
  
• Engine Power: Around 85 kW (114 horsepower), providing ample power for digging and lifting.
  
• Bucket Capacity: The standard bucket size is typically around 0.5-0.6 cubic meters, depending on the configuration.
  
• Digging Depth: The maximum digging depth is approximately 6 meters.
  
• Reach: Its maximum reach can extend to 8 meters, allowing for efficient operation in a wide range of situations.
  
• Hydraulic System: The EX 120 uses a sophisticated hydraulic system, delivering high performance for quick and precise movements.
  

These specifications place the EX 120 in a competitive range within the 12-ton class of excavators, where its performance is balanced with operational versatility and cost-effectiveness.
Performance and Versatility in Various Applications
One of the key factors contributing to the success of the EX 120 is its versatility in multiple applications. This machine is designed to be highly adaptable, performing tasks ranging from urban construction and demolition to road maintenance and even landscaping. Below are some of the key areas where the EX 120 excels:

1. Construction and Excavation:
   With a powerful engine and excellent lifting capabilities, the EX 120 is perfect for digging trenches, preparing foundations, and handling materials on construction sites. Its hydraulic system offers smooth operation, making it easy to manage different types of soil and materials.
   
2. Demolition:
   The EX 120’s ability to lift and move heavy debris, combined with its precision control, makes it an ideal machine for demolition projects. The excavator can be fitted with various attachments, such as a hydraulic hammer, to break down concrete and structures efficiently.
   
3. Landscaping and Site Preparation:
   For landscaping projects, the EX 120 provides the necessary power to handle soil grading, tree stump removal, and land clearing. Its precise digging capability allows for the shaping of landscapes and the preparation of large areas for new developments.
   
4. Material Handling:
   The EX 120 is often used in material handling applications, especially in tight spaces where larger equipment cannot operate effectively. It can be outfitted with a variety of bucket sizes and lifting attachments to transport heavy loads with ease.
   

Comparison with Other Machines in its Weight Class
When compared to other 12-ton excavators, the EX 120 holds up well in terms of performance, reliability, and ease of operation. However, it is important to understand its position relative to its competitors. Here are some other well-known 12-ton excavators in the market for comparison:

1. Caterpillar 312D
   • Operating Weight: 12,700 kg
     
   • Engine Power: 85 kW
     
   • Max Digging Depth: 6.6 meters
     The Cat 312D offers slightly more digging depth but is often priced higher than the EX 120. It excels in fuel efficiency and operator comfort.
     
2. Komatsu PC138US-10
   • Operating Weight: 13,500 kg
     
   • Engine Power: 92.5 kW
     
   • Max Digging Depth: 6.5 meters
     The Komatsu PC138US-10 is a slightly heavier machine, offering more power but with a larger operating weight. Its compact design makes it ideal for urban sites, though it lacks some of the hydraulic features found in the EX 120.
     
3. Kubota KX080-4
   • Operating Weight: 8,250 kg
     
   • Engine Power: 55.4 kW
     
   • Max Digging Depth: 5.5 meters
     Kubota’s KX080-4 is a smaller machine that competes in the mid-weight range. While it offers less lifting and digging capacity than the EX 120, it is more suited for smaller, tighter spaces and lighter projects.
     

In comparison, the EX 120 offers a strong balance between weight and power, making it a cost-effective choice for a variety of construction tasks. It is slightly lighter than some competitors like the Komatsu PC138US-10 but offers comparable performance, especially in terms of hydraulics and precision.
Pros and Cons of the EX 120
Like any machine, the EX 120 has its advantages and disadvantages. Here are some of the key points to consider:
Pros:

• Fuel Efficiency: The EX 120's engine is designed to minimize fuel consumption, making it an efficient option for extended use on job sites.
  
• Compact Size: Despite its power, the EX 120 remains relatively compact, making it ideal for urban or confined environments.
  
• Durability: Hitachi is known for building durable machines, and the EX 120 is no exception. It can withstand heavy use without sacrificing reliability.
  
• Ease of Maintenance: With readily accessible components, maintenance is straightforward, helping minimize downtime.
  

Cons:

• Limited Reach Compared to Larger Models: While the EX 120 is versatile, it lacks the extended reach of larger models in the 20-ton class, limiting its use in certain applications.
  
• Smaller Bucket Size: For jobs that require handling larger volumes of material, the standard bucket size may be a limiting factor.
  
• Not as Powerful as Larger Excavators: While it performs well in its weight class, it may not be powerful enough for the heaviest excavation work in certain sectors.
  

Conclusion
The EX 120 excavator is a solid choice for those needing a medium-sized, reliable machine for general construction, material handling, and demolition tasks. Its balance of weight, power, and hydraulic performance makes it a versatile option for a wide range of industries. While it may not offer the same power as larger models or the extended reach of its competitors, the EX 120 is an affordable and efficient solution for many operators. Proper maintenance and understanding of its operational limits ensure that it remains a key player in the 12-ton excavator category for years to come.