Komatsu upgrade mining excavator

The upgraded Komatsu PC1800-6 excavator’s twin Komatsu SAA6D140E-3 engines now feature electronic governors and common-rail fuel systems to comply with EPA Tier II air-quality regulations. Engine oil and filter changes are now set at 500h intervals against the previous 250h recommendation.

The engines power an open-centre, pilot-operated hydraulic system that features four high-volume variable-displacement pumps for fast cycle times. An independent two-pump swing circuit further enhances the PC1800-6’s speed and flexibility. The standard 15.7yd3 bucket can load a 100-ton truck in four or five passes.

The excavator features three working modes as well as a heavy-lift mode that provides the operator with around 7% more boom lifting force if needed. The PC1800-6 also offers a two-mode boom setting that allows the operator to choose a smooth mode for fine work or a power mode for heavy-duty applications.

The PC1800-6 comes as standard with Komatsu’s new vehicle health monitoring system (VHMS), an integrated monitoring system that provides self-contained diagnostics, a preventive maintenance scheduler, gauge panels with operator warning overrides and downloadable machine performance history.

The excavator is built with extended component life cycles. The revolving frame and centre frame have increased plate thickness and larger castings for added durability. The boom and arm offer increased section size and plate thickness, as well as continuous two-sided groove welding for maximum strength and reliability in tough digging conditions.

A new cab features improved visibility, pressure-proportional controls and a double-slide mechanism which allows the suspension seat and controllers to move in unison or independently. Viscous cab mounts reduce noise and vibration and two independent large-capacity air-conditioning/heater/ defroster systems maintain operator comfort.