The Hitachi ZX350LC-7 SLF is a perfect blend of power and precision

When Hildebrand OHG, a civil engineering firm based on Lake Constance, took on the challenge of dredging four harbours within a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it turned to the German Hitachi Construction Machinery dealer, Kiesel.

A Hitachi ZX350LC-7 SLF super long front excavator was supplied and customised by the dealership for the important project and was key to meeting its strict environmental and archaeological requirements.

A delicate challenge in a protected area

Dredging just 10 to 50 centimetres underwater in a protected zone demands extreme precision. The project’s location in the Lake Constance water supply area and a UNESCO World Heritage Site means every operation must avoid damage to the environment and fragile archaeological remains. Additionally, the risk of unexploded ordnance from WWII bombing raids required thorough site preparation.

Precision from the Hitachi ZX350LC-7 SLF

“Here on the pontoon, there is a ZX350LC-7 super long front, with a range of 20 metres,” says Managing Director Florian Hildebrand.

“The machine is equipped with Leica Geosystems 3D machine control, which is suitable for underwater use, to maintain precise dredging depths, ensuring compliance with environmental regulations.”

The machine’s 37.5-tonne operating weight and 210 kW engine provide the strength and stability needed for this demanding hydraulic engineering task. A reinforced undercarriage and heavy counterweight enhance stability on the pontoon, while the use of bio-oil and HVO fuel underline Hitachi’s commitment to lowering emissions.

Hildebrand’s specially developed bucket attachment handles the highly liquefied sediment with reliability, scooping and loading the material onto barges efficiently. This precision and performance ensure uninterrupted operation, even under challenging conditions.

A tailored solution from Hitachi Construction Machinery dealer

Expert customisation and ongoing support from Kiesel have been essential to the project’s success. From attachments and parts to training and maintenance, the dealer provides a complete package that keeps the ZX350LC-7 SLF running smoothly.

“The reliability of the machine is crucial, as repairs on the pontoon would be expensive,” explains Florian. “With Kiesel, we have a partner we can rely on, and this project confirms that.”

This partnership guarantees that Hildebrand can focus on the task at hand, confident that its equipment meets the highest standards for performance, safety, and environmental responsibility.

Reliable performance for projects

So far, the ZX350LC-7 SLF has worked reliably with no breakdowns. Its smooth operation on the pontoon combined with precise machine control means that Hildebrand meets tight dredging tolerances while protecting the lake’s delicate ecosystem.

For projects requiring a blend of power, precision, and environmental care, the Hitachi ZX350LC-7 SLF – delivered and supported by Kiesel – sets the benchmark for excellence in construction machinery.