JCB loadalls JCB's Loadall machines are now substantially quieter following huge improvements brought about by a radical redesign of the telescopic handler range.

Reductions of up to 10.1 decibels - or 90 per cent of sound energy - have been achieved on external noise levels, with the biggest cuts achieved on Loadalls with naturally aspirated engines.

Internal cab noise levels have also been slashed by three to 10 decibels, bringing them in line with their earthmoving stablemates at around 76 dB (A).

The redesign means JCB's Loadalls comply with new legislation governing noise emissions, which came into force on January 3 this year. Most new construction equipment manufactured for sale in Europe after that date has to comply with the European directive 2000/14/EC.

This includes the JCB ranges of backhoe loaders, Loadall telescopic handlers, wheeled loading shovels, dump trucks, excavators, forklift trucks, powerpacks and concrete breakers

The biggest challenge in meeting the legislation was faced by the 25-strong Loadall telescopic handler range because the machines were not previously governed by noise limits.

On all European models the reductions can be attributed to a host of features, including the lining of the engine compartment with sound proofing material.

Paul Black, managing director of JCB Mid Range Products, said: "Through engineering and design excellence we have achieved some staggering improvements to meet the new legal requirement.

"The noise reductions are clearly noticeable and will bring benefits both to the environment where the machines are working and to the operator sitting in the cab."

Rigorous monitoring systems have been established to guarantee the sound levels of all products, and changes to enclosures, exhausts, cooling systems, and air intakes have been adopted across the range to ensure conformity.

Meanwhile, JCB, the first non-Japanese manufacturer to produce micro excavators, says it sees new markets opening up for its products with tool-hire companies being one of the main targets for JCB micros while the new machines also offer added opportunities for landscaping, a market already served by other JCB products.

"The compact dimensions of JCB micros mean they are perfect for getting into confined areas as they can track through a standard 2'6" doorway - a key feature which will give access to sites previously inaccessible by bigger JCB plant," the company said in a text.

"The ability to negotiate narrow spaces is achieved with the use of the increasingly popular extending undercarriage concept. The undercarriage retracts to access tight spots and extends when stability for digging is required. The machines' low-ground bearing pressure also means they can move through buildings with minimal damage to floors."

The micros will be available with an optional 2-post or 4-post canopy.

The prime target for these new products will be plant hirers, who will benefit from the machines' zero tailswing capability through reduced rear-end damage. The new minis will also appeal to owner operators who need extra power while still maintaining the ability to work in confined spaces, the company said.

Zero tailswing is achieved when the excavator is positioned at 90 degrees to the tracks - and without compromising of dig depth, loadover height or reach.

The minis - weighing in at 2.7 and 3.2 tonnes - will also lead the field by being the first on the market to feature a full-size cab with flat glass throughout for cost-effective replacement.

Innovation features strongly on the new machines with the engine and hydraulics located under separate bonnets at the rear and on the side for easy serviceability.

"The new products will be a boon on housebuilding sites where space is at a premium and on roadworks projects where zero tailswing will reduce lane closures to a minimum," JCB said.