New Komatsu dump trucks get engine upgrade

Komatsu has unveiled two new rigid dump trucks – the 40-tonne capacity HD405-8 and 63-tonne capacity HD605-8 rigid frame dump trucks which feature Tier-4 engines that Komatsu claims can reduce fuel consumption by up to seven per cent compared with previous models.

The HD405-8 and HD605-8 are designed for use in quarries, construction sites and smaller-scale mining operations and feature the Komatsu Traction Control System (KTCS) for optimum traction in all ground conditions – as well as Komatsu’s exclusive Automatic Retard Speed Control (ARSC) system that gives ultimate control over downhill travel speeds, even when fully loaded.

The HD405-8 is powered by the Komatsu SAA6D140E-7 engine rated at 383kW, while the HD605-8 is powered by the SAA6D170E-7 rated at 540kW.

In addition, the HD605-8’s engine doesn’t require the use of selective catalytic reduction (SCR) or Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF/AdBlue) to achieve Tier 4 emissions standards, which reduces both NOx and PM emissions by 90 per cent compared with their Tier 3 engine equivalents.

Both engines incorporate an advanced Komatsu electronic control system that performs high-speed processing of all signals from sensors installed in the vehicle for total control of equipment in all conditions of use.

Engine condition information is displayed via an on-board network to the monitor inside the cab, providing all necessary operating data to the operator.

Additionally, this data can be accessed and managed via Komatsu’s KOMTRAX telematics remote monitoring system.

According to Komatsu Australia’s National Business Manager for Quarries, Richard Feehely, both new trucks have been designed to deliver the safest, most productive and cost-efficient operation across a wide range of operating conditions.

“Operators have unmatched control and safety in even the most difficult operating conditions, through our integrated transmission and braking system – which is recognised as being the best in the industry,” he said.

Komatsu runs the K-Atomics automated transmission system with ‘skipshift’ function that allows for a smoother operation; fully hydraulic wet multiple-disc brakes and retarder (689 kW retardation on the HD405-8, 802 kW on the HD605-8); Komatsu Traction Control System (KTSC) and Automatic Retard Speed Control (ARSC).

“Our ARSC lets operators simply dial-in the downhill speed required for safe travel, allowing them to concentrate on steering the truck.”

Both trucks feature long wheelbases and wide treads for a lower centre of gravity, allowing higher haul speeds and superior driving comfort.

McPherson-strut type front suspension allow for an increased turning angle of the front wheels, resulting in a smaller turning radius for superior manoeuvrability on tight work sites.

Fuel consumption is further reduced by a range of energy-saving features, including an ‘ecology guidance’ function for the operator, auto-idle shutdown system, power and economy operating modes, and enhanced integrated of the hydraulics and transmission systems to reduce parasitic power losses.

Both trucks also incorporate payload meters (PLMs) which display payload data in the cab as well as reporting to KOMTRAX, to ensure optimum loads for maximum productivity and to assist in analysing production rates and working conditions.

“Our 40 and 60-tonne class trucks have built a reputation over many years for being the safest, most cost-efficient and productive trucks available; these two new generation Tier 4 trucks will further build on this, with their ultra-low emissions, even lower fuel consumption, and detailed data capture through on-board monitoring and KOMTRAX,” Feehely said.

“Quarries, contractors, plant hirers and smaller mining operations will be able to further lower their owning and operating costs, while achieving an unrivalled level of control and visibility of their production and operating variables.”