The machine can operate for a full shift on a single charge. It can be fast-charged using a three phase supply or by a standard single phase, 16A supply although the latter takes longer. The electric drive to the drum is direct and without hydrostatics, unlike some competing designs, optimising efficiency. The steering is however conventional, using a hydraulic ram.
Although the electric machine is more costly than the conventional twin drum ARX26 units, servicing and maintenance costs are negligible and with fuel prices at a high, payback time is not significant and presents a key purchase benefit. For operations in urban areas or underground jobs where exhaust emissions are not allowed, or where there may be bonuses for the use of zero emissions equipment, the ARX26e offers a valuable option.
The company is also offering the ARX26 in other variants. The standard model is powered by a 26kW Kubota diesel that meets Stage V/Tier 4 Final emissions requirements. However, a version with a Stage V/Tier 4 Final compliant Kubota diesel delivering 19kW is also available. This latter unit comes under the power limit for a machine to be fitted with a diesel particulate filter (DPF), offering a considerable cost saving for maintenance and suits use by rental firms. Versions meeting Tier 3 requirements are offered also.
In addition, a low cost version of the ARX26 is offered with power from a Honda petrol engine. While the build quality is the same as for the other units, Ammann says that it has fewer operating features, suiting it to purchase by customers wanting a simple machine.
