Komatsu debuts hybrid-powered excavator

Illinois-based Komatsu America Corp. now is offering the PC365LC-11 excavator, which it says features a refreshed exterior design, an enhanced operator cab and several new standard and optional features optimized for the North American construction market.

Komatsu describes the PC365LC-11 as the only excavator in its class featuring an innovative electric swing system with “boom-up” power assist. The dedicated electric swing motor improves swing speeds and operational efficiency, reducing cycle times in multifunction applications, delivering up to a 15 percent increase in productivity, according to the equipment provider.

An ultracapacitor on the PC365LC-11 stores an additional 70 electric horsepower for acceleration when the engine is in ultra-low idle for instantaneous power to the work equipment on demand, providing a hybrid power aspect to the machine.

The excavator’s ultra-low idle state reduces fuel consumption by up to 20 percent, according to Komatsu, extending runtimes and lowering total cost of ownership.

All electrical energy used in this system is generated during normal operation and stored in the ultracapacitor, without external charging needed. “Without the need for hydraulic power for swing operations, this power is fully available for the boom, arm and bucket cylinders,” says Komatsu.

Optimizing hydraulic flow further reduces digging or material handling cycle times and reduces work equipment lag while also making the PC365LC-11 significantly quieter, says the equipment provider.

“The PC365LC-11 was engineered for excellence in multifunction applications by leveraging its innovative electric powertrain system to boost jobsite productivity while reducing fuel consumption,” says Matthew Moen, a Komatsu product manager. “To highlight these performance enhancements, we’re emphasizing the concept of ‘multifunction plus’ as the defining feature of this machine.”

Other features not always included in previous models include some offering what Komatsu calls greater operator comfort for long shifts, including a new premium heated air-suspension operator seat with improved cushioning and multiple adjustments. New proportional joysticks offer what Komatsu calls “an intuitive, ergonomic feel that’s easy to use, helping reduce operator fatigue and wrist stress.”

Among the safety features, a KomVision camera system comes as standard and provides what the company calls a real-time bird’s-eye view of the machine and its surroundings to help improve situational awareness.

An optional Smart Construction 3D Machine Guidance provides operators in the field and managers in the office access to three-dimensional design and topography data that can help control load volumes and promote optimized operations.

The attachment control system can include an additional hydraulic piping line designed to allow operators to configure and store flow rates and target pressures for multiple types of attachments.

The system provides for quick switching between attachments with accurate, preconfigured hydraulic settings tailored to each tool, says Komatsu. Optional hydraulic quick coupler piping also can be factory installed, including the Lehnhoff quick coupler system.

The PC365LC-11’s electric powertrain components are covered by a seven-year/15,000-hour transferable warranty, says Komatsu.