Stihl Launches BT140, Its First Battery-Powered Auger
With battery tools becoming more widespread and more importantly, productive and reliable, it was only time before we saw augers or post-hole borers.
These are said to have been designed from scratch, building on 20 years of experience in the telescopic sector. All the structural components of the new machine - including the software that manages the integrated sensors - were designed, tested and manufactured at the Breganze plant.
The specifications designed for New Zealand are yet to be confirmed by importer and distributor Jacks Machinery at Whakatane.
The first model of the new FS Range, the FS 7.32 Compact, offers a 3.2t maximum lift capacity complemented by a maximum lifting height of 7.1m. With a wheelbase of 2.95m and a steering angle of 37 degrees, the machine delivers a 3.8m turning radius. This is said to offer agility, without compromising the allimportant stability.
Available in Standard or Low Cab configurations, the latter encompasses a maximum working height of 2.06m.
The range utilises 4-cylinder Deutz engines of 2.9 to 3.6 litres, with five power outputs from 55.4 to 100kw. All comply with Stage V emission regulations with aftertreatment technology using oxidation catalyst (DOC) or urea (SCR) and particulate filter (DPF).
All the engines are common rail, turbocharged, with intercoolers to meet the variable power outputs, with maintenance intervals of up to 1,000 hours said to result in a major reduction in operating costs.
The range also introduces the “AutoStop” system, which turns off the engine when the operator gets up from the sea and restarts autonomously on their return. The hydraulic cooling fan is electronically controlled, automatically adjusting rotational speed according to the temperature, and is reversible to remove debris from the radiator core.
All versions of the FS 7.32 are equipped with Ecodrive hydrostatic transmission – one with a single gear and a maximum speed of 30km/h, while a twospeed mechanical gearbox offers maximum speeds of 40km/h and a reduced ratio for tasks that require greater traction. Differentials take the form of a basic version with 45% limited slip, automatic differential lock and an advanced solution with 100% hydraulically-operated differential lock.
The hydraulic oil circuit offers the choices of a gear or variable displacement piston pump set-up. The latter load sensing, with flow rates from 120 to 180 litres/ min – depending on the set-up. Meanwhile, flowsharing distributors for multi-function operations guarantee excellent multifunctionality and regeneration of oil during boom descent.
The redesigned cab sees controls, grouped by functional logic and a height adjustable steering wheel to suit all operators. All operational information including engine, load charts and accessory control is delivered in the FS Display, a 7-inch, colour touch screen, positioned on the right-hand mast.
The driver’s seat offers pneumatic suspension and is fitted with the FS Joystick on the right armrest. Moving between screens or changing settings can also be done by a wheel control system, positioned on the armrest.
Creature comforts include a bottle holder, two USB ports and two larger rear-view mirrors, with lighting provided by a high capacity LED system.
