Leah Harnack hosted Editor-in-Chief Lori Ditoro during the Komatsu Demo Days.Lori Ditoro
Before going into the field to see and operate equipment, the Komatsu team gave us a safety review and talked about the company’s goals and industry trends.
Solutions and trends discussed included:
- Technology: Predictability with digital solutions including smart construction, intelligent machine control and 3D machine guidance are some of the trends around tech.
- Sustainability goals: Power source options and options for your current fleet should be considered. Komatsu to be carbon neutral by 2050.
- Power options include electric, hydrogen, hybrid and renewable biodiesel.
- Labor challenges: Contractors should upskill and retain talent.
- Komatsu has the Komatsu Academy to help with education.
- Other factors that can help with workforce issues are digitalization and automation.
Operating the Dozer
I have operated construction equipment but never a dozer. I was a little intimidated because the D71PXi-24 is the largest Komatsu hydrostatic transmission dozer. However, with the help of the Komatsu experts and the fully integrated automation, the process was simple.
After moving dirt into a pile, I was able to get everything back to grade automatically with grade control. It also has tilt assist, allowing for 80% less operator input, and track mapping.
First Time in a Hybrid Excavator
Several excavators were available to operate including the PC900LC-11, Komatsu’s largest construction excavator. However, I decided to try the HB365LC-3 hybrid excavator because I’d never been in a hybrid machine.
The all-electric swing system has four components:
- Electric swing motor
- Capacitor-sin to a battery
- Inverter (DC to AC)
- Motor generator coupled to the engine
The bucket and boom (hydraulic functions) are 15% more productive than a diesel-only excavator and fuel consumption is 20% lower, and the excavator produces fewer emissions.
Smart Construction Solutions
The Komatsu team shared its technology solutions, too. The jobsite management system includes:
- Logistics materials in the right place
- Drones, terrain mapping
- Timecards
- A scheduling solution (no lost time)
- Cycles for equipment
- Other Equipment at the Demo Days
- In addition to the dozers and excavators, Komatsu had wheel loaders, including the WA475-10 with auto idle and new lift equipment.
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