Hitachi Zaxis 210 Excavator Operating in Coastal Norway

[MikePhua]

The Hitachi Zaxis 210 excavator demonstrates its adaptability and resilience in Norway’s coastal terrain, where saltwater exposure, steep gradients, and remote access demand specialized preparation and maintenance. With modified intake routing and corrosion precautions, this machine performs reliably in one of Europe’s most challenging environments.
Hitachi Zaxis Series Background
Hitachi Construction Machinery, a division of Hitachi Ltd. founded in 1970, launched the Zaxis series in the early 2000s to meet global demand for fuel-efficient, electronically controlled excavators. The Zaxis 210 is a mid-size model in the lineup, powered by an Isuzu turbo diesel engine and equipped with load-sensing hydraulics. It features a reinforced boom, spacious cab, and advanced monitoring systems. The Zaxis series has sold extensively across Europe, Asia, and North America, with the 210 model favored for general excavation, forestry, and infrastructure work.
Terminology Note

• Hydraulic Breather: A vent that allows pressure equalization in the hydraulic tank while preventing contamination.
  
• Final Drive: The gear assembly that transmits power from the hydraulic motor to the tracks.
  
• Salt Fog Exposure: Corrosive airborne salt particles common in coastal environments.
  
• Intake Rerouting: Modifying the air intake system to draw cleaner air from elevated or protected locations.
  
• Track Link Seizure: A condition where corrosion causes track pins and bushings to bind, reducing mobility.
  

Environmental Challenges in Coastal Norway
Operating near fjords and saltwater inlets, excavators face constant exposure to moisture and airborne salt. The Zaxis 210 in this setting was observed working on shoreline stabilization and infrastructure access. The operator appeared unfazed, but long-term exposure raises concerns:

• Track links may rust and seize if not cleaned and lubricated regularly.
  
• Final drives can ingest water through damaged seals or unmodified breathers.
  
• Hydraulic tanks may draw in moisture if breathers are not relocated or filtered.
  

To mitigate these risks, the machine had its air intake plumbed higher, likely to avoid salt-laden air near the ground. A life jacket was visible in the cab, suggesting work near water or on floating platforms.
Recommended Modifications and Maintenance

• Elevate the hydraulic breather using a hose extension and moisture trap.
  
• Install stainless steel track guards to reduce corrosion from salt spray.
  
• Flush final drives every 500 hours in marine environments, using synthetic gear oil with anti-corrosion additives.
  
• Apply marine-grade grease to track pins and bushings during weekly service.
  
• Use anti-corrosion coatings on exposed hydraulic lines and fittings.
  

Field Experience and Anecdotes
In western Norway, a contractor used a Zaxis 210 for shoreline excavation and noted that the machine’s electronics remained stable despite high humidity. However, after six months, the track links began to bind, requiring partial disassembly and cleaning. The operator installed sacrificial anodes on the undercarriage—a technique borrowed from marine engineering—to slow corrosion.
In Sweden, a similar machine was used in a peat bog near the coast. The intake was rerouted to the top of the cab, and the final drives were fitted with custom breathers. These modifications extended service intervals and reduced water ingress.
Conclusion
The Hitachi Zaxis 210 excavator proves its versatility in Norway’s coastal terrain, but success depends on proactive corrosion control and environmental adaptation. With elevated intakes, modified breathers, and marine-grade lubricants, the machine can operate safely and efficiently in salt-laden air and wet ground. For contractors working near water, these upgrades are not optional—they’re essential for long-term reliability.