Roadtec SX-8e/ex Stabilizer/Reclaimer
The SX-8e/ex is the largest in the company’s line of soil stabilizer/reclaimer machines. Designed for road rehabilitation, cold recycling, or soil stabilization, the SX-8e/ex has an operating weight of 82,000 pounds and is capable of cutting up to 20 inches deep and 100 inches wide. Machine weight is balanced over the cutter, allowing the SX-8e/ex to handle challenging surface and ground conditions. The SX-8e uses a Tier 4-I Cat C18 engine rated at 755 horsepower, and the SX-8ex uses a Tier 3 Cat C18, rated at 700 horsepower and intended for use in lesser-regulated countries. The engine provides power to the rotor through a direct drum drive, and the rotor is designed, says the company, for milling and mixing the most resistant soils, completely and homogeneously.
A variable-geometry cutter housing is designed to enable the SX-8 to achieve material gradation with each pass, promoting material sizing, as well as consistent material flow, says Roadtec. Heavy-duty front and rear doors are hydraulically adjustable for additional control of gradation and flow. An air-shift, four-speed transmission is designed to allow the change of cutter speeds without a loss in production. The operator can select the appropriate cutter speed for the conditions without making modifications to the cutter drive.
The SX-8 cooling system pulls air from the top of the machine and passes it through the radiator package, reducing the amount of dust traveling though the cooling system, says Roadtec. Clean-out panels provide access for radiator maintenance.
According to the manufacturer, the new machine is designed with operator comfort and visibility in mind. The ergonomic design of the sealed cabin, says Roadtec, situates the operator in a position to reach all controls and systems. Joystick controls and four different steering modes support the machine’s maneuverability and operation, says the company, and the operator seat slides laterally and swings 90 degrees to help provide preferred vantage points. The platform also slides 18 inches past the right of the machine for additional visibility.
The stabilizer/reclaimer’s hydraulically-controlled suspension allows the depth of cut to be selected via push button. The machine is built on a rigid, sealed, box frame designed to allow controlled airflow, while maintaining durability. The custom-made machine frame also is designed to perform in all terrains by providing substantial ground clearance. Wheels are suspended by four, independently-controlled, hydraulically adjustable leg assemblies that are bolted to the mainframe. The cutter housing is also securely fastened to the mainframe, providing strength and precision while the machine is working, says Roadtec.
