UK-based Synergy Plant Hire has taken delivery of five Hitachi Zaxis-7 excavators with clamshell telescopic arms to maximise productivity and efficiency on a variety of below-ground excavation projects. The four ZX350-7 special application models, constructed in and shipped directly from Japan, will be ideal for working on the HS2 high-speed railway network linking up London, the Midlands, the North and Scotland.

Four of the new models are capable of removing soil from a 30m digging depth and are equipped with 1.55m³ buckets. The fifth has a 25m digging depth and 1.30m³ bucket. Compared to traditional methods of below-ground excavation (such as the use of skips, cranes and conveyor belts), these special application machines are much quicker, more cost-effective, and have been specifically designed to boost productivity on complex and challenging projects.

The latest additions to Synergy’s hire fleet are also fitted with Stage V-compliant engines to comply with all major project emission standards. “These excavators have been perfectly developed for a variety of underground construction projects and most of them will work on the construction of access tunnels and ventilation shafts on the HS2 project,” says Synergy Plant Hire’s joint Managing Director, Anthony Fitzpatrick.

“There are not many models like this in the country. Contractors want the highest level of productivity – in fewer cycles – so they can get the job done quicker. A Hitachi CTA is an excellent tool that is designed and built specifically for this kind of application. Furthermore, having a machine that meets Stage V emissions regulations is also important – it’s a mandatory requirement for government guidelines to work on HS2.

“We also have two more ZX135US-6 short reach front models joining our fleet, which are ideal for use when space is limited. They will be able to work in conjunction with the new Zaxis-7 excavators with clamshell telescopic arms, so together they will make a great package.”