Tag Archive for 'Komatsu'

Komatsu America Corp. Launches New D65-16 Crawler Dozers

Published on June 27, 2010 in Equipment & Products. 0 Comments Tags: , , , , .

New D65-16 Powered by Next Generation SIGMADOZER Blade and New Transmission Technology for Powerful and More Productive Dozing

Komatsu America Corp. today introduced its new line of D65-16 crawler dozers.  Komatsu’s new crawler dozers are powered with

Komatsu D65-16 Crawler Dozers

the fuel efficient 8.27 Liter, EPA Tier 3 emission certified Komatsu SAA6D114E-3 engine.  These new models push with a net (ISO 9249 / SAE J1349) 205 HP at 1950 rpm.  A standard (EX), low ground pressure (PX) and a wide (WX) track models are available, offering customers flotation and weight distribution options to best match their applications.  Operating weight ranges from 43,690 lbs to 48,940 lbs depending on the version.

Developed primarily for heavy dozing and finishing operations, the new model combines the revolutionary SIGMADOZER blade with a highly efficient automatic transmission with torque converter lock-up to achieve exceptional productivity and fuel economy.  A new Komatsu 6-way Power Angle Tilt (PAT) blade is also available for all models, making it a perfectly balanced and agile tractor for light and medium dozing operations as well as providing precise grade cutting required for site prep, golf course or house pad applications.

The new dozers are equipped with the latest KOMTRAX® technology which sends machine operating information to a secure website utilizing wireless technology. Hour meter, location, cautions, load ratio, fuel consumption and maintenance alerts – to name a few of its features – are relayed to the web application for analysis.  The KOMTRAX fleet monitoring system increases machine availability, reduces the risk of machine theft, allows for remote diagnosis by the distributor, and provides a wealth of other information to drive business efficiency and productivity.

Special features of these new crawler dozers include:

Choice of the next generation SIGMADOZER blade for unsurpassed productivity and grading, or PAT blade for maximum versatility and performance

The D65EX and WX can be equipped with SIGMADOZER, providing the machine with a large blade capacity of 7.34 yd³ and 7.72 yd³ respectively.  Based on a completely new excavation theory, SIGMADOZER dramatically improves dozing performance and increases productivity by 15% over conventional Semi-U blades as proven on the larger D155AX-6 and D275AX-5 dozers.

The blade features a new frontal design concept adopted for digging and rolling up at the center of the blade increasing soil holding capacity while simultaneously reducing sideway spillage.  It also reduces digging resistance producing a smoother flow of material enabling the dozing of larger amounts of soil with less power.

A PAT blade with highly durable box structure C-Frame is optionally available for each model.  The hydraulic blade tilt and angling function expands versatility and productivity in a variety of applications.  The manually adjustable blade pitch further expands the versatility and productivity in many applications

New automatic transmission significantly improves fuel economy

The D65-16’s have a new automatic transmission with lock up torque converter that greatly reduces fuel consumption and offers greater power train efficiency.  The lockup mechanics of the torque converter automatically transfers engine power directly to the transmission, reducing fuel consumption by up to 10 percent.  Because of the efficiency of the electronically controlled engine and transmission, fuel consumption is decreased while machine power is maintained.

Two gearshift modes – automatic or manual – can be easily selected to fit the appropriate application: automatic for all general dozing offers the choice of 4 forward and reverse speeds and manual for dozing and ripping rough ground offers the choice of 3 forward and 3 reverse speeds.  For operating efficiency, the automatic gearshift transmission shifts to the optimal gear range based on the working conditions and load.

Two selectable Working Modes – E and P – match machine performance to the application. The E Mode is chosen for all general dozing, leveling and spreading applications providing adequate speed and power while saving up to 10% fuel.  The P Mode is chosen for slot dozing, ripping or other applications requiring higher production where engine power has priority over fuel consumption.

Newly designed joystick controls for power and comfort

Komatsu’s ergonomically designed Palm Command Control System (PCCS) gives operators maximum control, offering a relaxed posture and superb fine control to minimize operator fatigue.  Thumb push buttons simplify transmission gear shifting.  The pilot controlled hydraulic blade and ripper control joystick offers excellent blade and ripper fine control.

Engine speed is controlled using an easy-to-operate electronic throttle control dial, which eliminates maintenance of linkage and joints.   Powerful turns under various work conditions are achieved with the Hydrostatic Steering System (HSS), which is driven by an independent hydraulic pump and motor to transmit power to both tracks without interruption. Counter-rotation is available for minimum turning radius, providing excellent maneuverability

New cab design creates optimal operator environment

The new D65-16 crawler dozer’s comfortable working environment, allows the operator to concentrate on the work at hand for increased productivity.  The new larger cab is now integrated with ROPS (Roll-Over Protection Structure) and moves the standard air ride operator’s seat 3 inches higher and 4 inches closer to the blade for excellent front, side and rear visibility.  The dozer’s viscous cab mounts reduce shocks and vibration even over adverse conditions and the interior cab decibel has been decreased to 75db for a quiet work environment.  A new, large 7” color LCD monitor in the cab displays all machine information.

Convenient maintenance equals reliability

Knowing that maintenance is critical for successful equipment uptime, Komatsu has designed the D65-16 with easy routine maintenance in mind.  Daily engine checks are grouped at the left hand side of the engine compartment. A manually reversing fan allows for quick cleaning of the radiator without leaving the cab.  The D65-16 also comes standard with PLUS undercarriage.  This rotary bushing system doubles the undercarriage life over prior conventional systems significantly lowering O&O costs.

*SIGMADOZER is a registered trademark of Komatsu Ltd., Japan.

Komatsu America Corp. Demonstrates Its “Green” Hybrid PC200LC-8 Excavator In Los Angeles

Published on March 18, 2010 in Industry Activities and National. 0 Comments Tags: , , , , , , , , .

Late in 2009, Komatsu America introduced the first of ten Hybrid PC200LC-8 excavators into the U.S. market to test the innovative equipment that was designed to reduce environmental impact by saving fuel and reducing green house emissions.  On March 11, 2010, representatives from Komatsu, along with representatives from the California Air Resources Board (CARB), the

From left to right: • Erik Wilde, VP, Product Marketing, Komatsu America Corp. • Dan McGrew, VP, Business Development, Griffith Company • Leonard Savala, CEO, Savala Equipment Company, Inc. • Dave Grzelak, Chairman & CEO, Komatsu America Corp. • Stephen Cheung, Port Liaison, Energy and Environment, Office of Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa, City of Los Angeles Sean Savala, President, Savala Equipment Company, Inc.

office of Los Angeles Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa, the contractor Griffith Company, and Savala Equipment Company, Inc.—which has been using a Hybrid PC200LC-8—gathered for a demonstration of the hybrid excavator at work at the Port of Los Angeles.

The Komatsu hybrid excavator is one of a number of other kinds of “green” machines that the Port of Los Angeles has introduced or tested, resulting in reduced diesel emissions that comply with a Clean Air Action Plan that was adopted in November 2006 by the ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach.

“We’re really in the process of seeing a complete transformation of this port as well as the trucking and construction industries,” noted Mary Nichols, chair of the California Air Resources Board. “We’re actually cleaning the air one piece of equipment at a time, and the machine being showcased today and others are going to help us meet our goals of energy efficiency and diversification of the fuel supply.”

Brea-based contractor Griffith Company has seen positive results with the Hybrid PC200LC-8. Dan McGrew, VP of Business Development for the Griffith Company said that they were skeptical at first, but the hybrid excavator “surpassed all expectations while using 30% less fuel.” McGrew noted that the hybrid excavator has a shorter cycle time than a conventional excavator, and concluded, that Komatsu’s Hybrid PC200LC-8 is a “fantastic machine.”

There are 700 of Komatsu’s hybrid excavators already in use at construction sites in China and Japan. “Komatsu’s decision to apply its engineering excellence to the largest construction machine segment clearly signals our commitment to developing environment-friendly equipment,” said Dave Grzelak, chairman and CEO of Komatsu America Corp.

Powered by the Komatsu Hybrid System, the Hybrid PC200LC-8 uses a newly developed electric swing motor, power generator motor, capacitor and diesel engine. Komatsu developed its revolutionary hybrid system to work on the principle of swing energy regeneration and energy storage using the Komatsu Ultra Capacitor system.  Komatsu’s Ultra Capacitors provide fast energy storage and instantaneous power transmission.

In tests comparing the standard PC200LC-8 hydraulic excavator to the Hybrid PC200LC-8, the hybrid model reduced fuel consumption by approximately 25-40%, depending on the application.

Editor’s Note: Site-K Construction Zone and the ACP magazines have been covering the introduction of the Komatsu Hybrid Excavator since its introduction in November of 2009. If you are interested you can click here to review previously posted and published articles.

Komatsu America Commemorates The 930th Production Of Its Model 930E Haul Truck

Published on March 2, 2010 in Equipment & Products and National. 0 Comments Tags: , , , , , .

Komatsu America Corp. commemorated the production of the 930th unit of its Ultra Class 930E Electric Drive Truck. The celebration took place at its Peoria Manufacturing Operation and included an address from Vice President and General Manager, Rod Schrader in addition to a photo shoot for employees.

Introduced in 1996, the 930E is the best selling ultra class mining truck in the world. Currently, there are fleets of 930s located in North America, South America, Africa, Asia and Australia.

Komatsu designs and builds the 930E electric drive truck in Peoria where union craftsmen assemble and test the final product before shipping it around the world.  The factory has a long history of innovation, and built its first electric drive mining truck in 1967.  Those early trucks were limited to 120-ton capacity and would be dwarfed by today’s modern trucks that are equipped with state-of-the-art satellite diagnostic systems for remote monitoring.

“The 930E represents Komatsu’s genuine passion to see our customers succeed,” said Don Lindell, product manager for Mining Trucks.  “We continue refining the features of the truck to lower operating cost per ton based on data from real world performance.”

Collahuasi, a 14-year customer of Komatsu with over 40 trucks at one site, will be receiving unit number 930 when it is shipped from the Komatsu factory in Peoria.  Located in the mountains of northern Chile, Collahuasi is one of the largest copper resources in the world; boasting upwards of five billion tons.

The 930E is used as a part of Komatsu’s Autonomous Haulage System that allows the trucks to operate without drivers.  Because of its technology and reliability, the 930E is often used for remote and difficult applications.

The 930E has a payload capacity of 320 tons. Depending on the model, it is available with 2,700 or 3,500 horsepower diesel engine connected to an AC electric drive system.  The total weight carried by the six 12’ high tires is 1,106,670 lbs.

Engine:

Make and model Komatsu SSDA16V160*
Fuel Diesel
Number of cylinders 16
Operating cycle 4 cycle
**Rated brake power @ 1900 rpm 2,700 HP 2014 kW
***Flywheel power @ 1900 rpm 2,550 HP 1902 kW
Weight (wet) 21,182 lb 9608 kg

Electric Drive:

*Wheel motor application depends upon gross vehicle weight, haul road grade, haul road length, rolling resistance and other parameters. Komatsu and G.E. must analyze each job condition to assure proper application.
*Optional ratios available.

AC/DC CURRENT
Alternator GTA-41
Dual impeller in-line blower 12,000 cfm 340 m³/min
Control AC Torque Control System
Motorized wheels* GDY106 Induction Traction Motors
Ratio* 32.62:1
Speed (maximum) 40 mph 64.5 km/h

Weight Distribution:

Empty vehicle weight (wet, 100% fuel, no options, std Komatsu body, std tires):
Front axle / 47% 219,826 lb 99711 kg
Rear axle / 53% 243,557 lb 110476 kg
Total EVW 463,383 lb 210187 kg
Gross vehicle weight (Nominal):
Front axle / 33% 365,201 lb 165651 kg
Rear axle / 67% 741,469 lb 336323 kg
Total 1,106,670 lb 501974 kg
Nominal payload* 643,287 lb 291790 kg
320 U.S. ton
*Nominal payload is defined by Komatsu America Corp. payload policy documentation. In general, the nominal payload must be adjusted for the specific vehicle configuration and site application. The figures above are provided for basic product description purposes. Please contact your Komatsu distributor for specific application requirements.

Komatsu America Introduces Hybrid Excavator

Published on November 7, 2009 in Equipment & Products. 1 Comment Tags: , , , , , , , .

On November 5, 2009, Komatsu America Corp. (KAC) introduced its newest “Green Machine,” the Hybrid PC200LC-8 excavator, into the North American market. This introduction took place at the company’s Cartersville, GA training center. DaveHybridPC200-Press-Release2 Grzelak, chairman and CEO of KAC, took great pride in introducing the newest addition to the Komatsu line of excavators. Before getting into the company’s history of “greening” its products, Grezlak introduced the Matt Santini, Mayor of Cartersville.

David W. Grzelak, Chairman and Chief Executive Office, Komatsu America Corp.

David W. Grzelak, Chairman and Chief Executive Office, Komatsu America Corp.

Grzelak gave attendees an overview of the company’s involvement with hybrid technology and its efforts to make its products more environmentally friendly. Two years ago Komatsu introduced the Sigmadozer blade for the D155 and D275 dozers that increases productivity while fuel efficiency by more than 10%; it also introduced large capacity wheel loaders with larger torque convertors that improved fuel efficiency more than 10%. Komatsu also produces notably efficient thermoelectric modules that can waste heat into electricity and high performance wire saws use to precision cut the silicon wafers that are used to make solar cells. The company also produces diesel electric off highway haul trucks that have haulage capacities of 300 tons.

In 2007 Komatsu introduced a hybrid forklift that uses a similar regenerative electrical energy system via capacitors. There are more than 400 of these currently operating in Japan. These forklifts achieve a 20% reduction in energy use compared to the standard electric powered models.

Grzelak pointed out that the CO2 reducing actions of a Hybrid PC200LC-8 operating 2,000 hrs per year emits 25 tons less than the conventional PC200LC-8. This is equivalent to 591 x 5,000 gallon tanker trucks.

Matt Santini, Mayor of Cartersville GA

Matt Santini, Mayor of Cartersville GA

Substantial “green” impact

Komatsu’s goal is to meet increasing global environmental concerns through the development of innovative equipment designed to reduce environmental impact, including CO2 reduction. By developing a successful hybrid excavator in the largest construction machine segment (20-22 ton), Komatsu’s green technology will have a substantial impact on saving fuel and reducing green house emissions.

“Komatsu’s decision to apply its engineering excellence to the largest construction machine segment, clearly signals our commitment to developing environment-friendly equipment”, Grzelak says. “Since the company’s inception, Komatsu has been setting the global standard for technology and engineering excellence and today that tradition continues with the introduction of the Hybrid PC200LC-8 excavator.”

Cutting-edge technology

Powered by the Komatsu Hybrid System, the Hybrid PC200LC-8 uses a newly developed electric swing motor, power generator motor, capacitor and diesel engine. Komatsu developed its revolutionary hybrid system to work on the principle of swing energy regeneration and energy storage using the Komatsu Ultra Capacitor system. Komatsu’s Ultra Capacitors provide fast energy storage and instantaneous power transmission.

The kinetic energy generated during the swing-braking phase is converted to electricity, which is sent through an inverter and then captured by the Ultra Capacitor. This captured energy is then discharged very quickly for upper structure rotation and to assist the engine as commanded by the hybrid controller when accelerating under workload conditions.

In tests comparing the standard PC200LC-8 hydraulic excavator to the Hybrid PC200LC-8, the hybrid model reduced fuel consumption by approximately 25-40%, depending on the application.
During the demonstration session of the program, skilled operators, one running the new hybrid machine and the other running a standard version of the same machine went head to head to illustrate the fuel savings potential. The standard machine was operating at a fuel consumption rate of 4.1 gallons per hour compared to the hybrid’s consumption rate of 3.2 gallons per hour. This is around a 47% fuel savings. Both machines were equipped with furl monitoring gauges.

The hybrid is on the left and the standard on the right.

The hybrid is on the left and the standard on the right.

The specs

The Hybrid PC200LC-8 is powered by the turbocharged and air-to-air after-cooled Komatsu SAA4D107E-1 which provides138HP. With an operating weight of 43,643 to 47,260 pounds, the Hybrid PC200LC-8 has a bucket capacity of 0.66 – 1.57 yd3. The Hybrid PC200LC- has the same working forces and performance levels of the conventional PC200LC-8.

The innovative cab design assures operator comfort because the viscous cab damper mounts reduce vibration. A 7” LCD monitor provides easy-to-read gauges and onboard diagnostics as well as displaying the rear-view monitoring system for viewing the work area to rear of the machine.

KOMTRAX on board

The Hybrid PC200LC-8 is also equipped with the latest KOMTRAX technology which sends machine operating information to a secure website utilizing wireless technology. Data such as operating hours, fuel consumption, machine location and machine utilization are relayed to the web application for analysis. The KOMTRAX fleet monitoring system increases machine availability, reduces the risk of machine theft and provides a wealth of other information to drive business efficiency.

The Hybrid PC200LC-8 excavator was introduced to the Japanese market in June 2008, and has been successful in reducing fuel consumption. In addition, Komatsu introduced the Hybrid to the Chinese market in August this year.

Armando Najera explains the inverter, convertor and control assembly on the hybrid.

Armando Najera explains the inverter, convertor and control assembly on the hybrid.

Komatsu Hybrid Technology

Komatsu Harmony is fundamental in matching the diesel/electric Hybrid system to the hydraulic requirements to provide high productivity with low fuel consumption. The Hybrid controller synchronizes the conventional engine and hydraulic pumps with electric assist to provide a unique operational experience. The more the operator uses the Hybrid technology by swinging and regenerating energy, the greater is the fuel consumption benefit

Hybrid Excavator Energy Flow

The hybrid system drives the upper structure with an electric motor. The electric motor is also used to regenerate energy as the upper structure slows down. Fuel consumption is improved by the ability to use the regenerated energy to assist during high power demands allowing the engine to run at an optimum speed for high efficiency.

Hybrid_ExacavatorUltra Capacitor for Energy Storage

In construction equipment, the energy demand is high and occurs in a short amount of time. Combined with a high frequency of demand, the electrical energy requirements to operate construction equipment cannot be met with current battery technology.

Hybrid_Exacavator2The “Komatsu Hybrid System” uses an “Ultra Capacitor” to instantaneously store and give off electrical energy efficiently. This capacitor charges and discharges at a much faster rate than the slower chemical reactions that take place in batteries. The instantaneous charging and dis- charging characteristics of a capacitor match the high-energy demand and frequent cycles needed by an excavator.

Hybrid_Exacavator3Swing Motor/Generator

The Hybrid PC200LC-8 uses an electric swing motor that rotates the upper structure and recovers energy during swing braking. A special housing, which circulates cooling water and lubricating oil, further enhances durability.

Hybrid_Exacavator4Inverter (Converter) and Ultra Capacitor

The inverter receives AC energy and converts it to DC energy from two sources:

1. Recovered energy from the swing motor/generator

2. Charging power from the engine’s generator/motor

The converted DC energy from these two sources is quickly stored in the Ultra Capacitor. The stored DC energy is then quickly released and converted to AC to power the swing motor and to assist the engine RPM. A special housing allows cooling water to circulate further enhancing durability.

Hybrid_Exacavator5Generator/Motor

The generator motor is built-in between the engine and hydraulic pump for effective power transmission to the hydraulic pumps. The generator can charge the capacitor during periods when no work equipment or travel operations are used. The generator motor also receives power from the capacitor for engine assist, as commanded by the Hybrid controller.

Hybrid_Exacavator6Energy Management

The machine monitor panel includes a “Hybrid Operation Monitor” screen to display energy flow as the machine operates. The monitor screen can be changed to display status of capacitor charging and discharging and engine assist by the generator/motor as energy flow. The Hybrid controller manages energy flow making it seamless for the operator.

The work equipment is operated hydraulically by energy generated by the engine as in the conventional equipment (red arrows). Swing is driven by electrical energy from the capacitor and generator (yellow arrows).

Energy generated during swing deceleration is regenerated and is stored in the capacitor (green arrows). Some of the regenerated energy assists the engine through the generator/motor and assists work equipment operation.

Hybrid_Exacavator1This article will be appearing in the December issues of all ACP magazines.

Komatsu America Corp. Introduces D375A-6 Dozer

Published on September 3, 2009 in Equipment & Products. 0 Comments Tags: , , , , .

Komatsu America Corp. (KAC) recently introduced its new D375A-6 crawler dozer for use in mining and heavy construction applications. Following an extensive amount of customer input and feedback, the new dozer includes technological enhancements for even greater productivity.

A highly efficient Komatsu SAA6D170E-5 engine with an operating weight of 157,940 lbs powers the new D375A-6. The dozer delivers 636 gross hp @ 1800 RPM (SAE J1995,  610 hp net @ 1800 rpm – SAEJ1349)while maintaining high fuel efficiency and meeting all EPA Tier 3 and EU stage 3A emissions requirements. Combined with new features and upgrades, the D375A-6 is an outstanding crawler dozer.

IMG_0868

According to Richard Smith, product manager-mechanical drive equipment, the new dozer’s design and engineering updates are based on, “direct input from customers. The increase in horsepower, for example was because they said they need more power in some applications. The D375A-6 has two power modes: 1-maximum power at 610 hp and 2-economy at 525 horsepower.

Komatsu invited customers and trade press editors to see the first machine run through its paces at the company’s demonstration and training facility located in Cartersville, GA. More than 70 end-users from across the country were there to see the new machine in action.

Productivity Performance

The D375A-6 increases net engine output by 85 HP to 610 HP at 1800 RPM.  As with the previous -5EO model, a reduction in fuel consumption is realized because of the automatic transmission with lockup torque converter.  Komatsu’s electronic powertrain control system produces an efficient and effective drawbar pull.

IMG_0801An updated Full-U 28.8 cubic yard blade allows for increased production without increasing blade width or reducing digging force.  The shape of the blade is similar to the next-size-class-larger Komatsu dozer, the D475A-5EO.  The overall-dozing capability is increased compared to the prior model without compromising visibility and balance. In fact several of the operators commented on the balance of the machine, noticing that the blade was placed back, closer to the cab. Smith confirmed the fact that the blade was approximately 8 inches back.

Operator Enhancements

A large multi-lingual user-friendly LCD (liquid crystal display) multi-color monitor enables an operator to perform work efficiently and accurately.  Excellent screen visibility is achieved with the use of TFT (Thin Film Transistor) enabling viewing at various angles and lighting conditions.  Komatsu-designed function keys enable multi-function operations.  Various meters, gauges and warning functions are centrally arranged for simple start-up, inspection and prompt warning of any abnormalities.

To assist in environmentally aware and energy saving operation of the machine, an easy-to-read “eco gauge” is displayed on the right side of the multi-monitor screen.  For energy saving operation, the operator simply operates the machine with the eco gauge in the green range.D375A-6_cab

The operator-friendly monitor is easy to see and read. It provides the operator with a full array of information and machine control switches. Service intervals are conveniently available on the monitor.

Standard Mining Specifications

There are sixteen new, standard mining specifications including but not limited to: high mounted headlights; battery and starter isolator box;CRW_1380_RJ centralized grease points; and manual engine stop switches.  Optional mining specifications include right and left hand platforms with handrails and HID work lights.  A variable piston pump derived from the successful D475A-5EO hydraulic system replaces the previous tandem gear pump for efficiency and reliability.