Komatsu Compact Excavators — 2014 Spec Guide
Komatsu entered the compact excavator market in the mid-1990s. Today’s newest member of the compact family is the PC88MR-10: One of the only excavators in the industry that does not require a diesel particulate filter or selective catalytic reduction (SCR) to meet Tier 4 Final regulations, says Komatsu. Komatsu compact excavators have evolved alongside their larger siblings with improvements aimed at addressing customer needs such as a dozer blade for backfilling and auxiliary hydraulics for powering attachments, says Komatsu.
A power angle blade has been developed for some models to further improve productivity during back-filling, as well as auxiliary hydraulics with a foot pedal or optional joystick controls. Swing boom models also greatly add to the versatility of the compact excavator line making it possible to dig parallel to a structure such as a foundation or fence. There are three track options available — steel, rubber and road liner.
Common features include technologies like the CLSS (Closed-Center Load Sensing System) HydrauMind (Hydraulic Mechanical Intelligence) hydraulics system which gives the operator precise control at all times regardless of the load or multifunction use. Pattern change valves are also standard, allowing operators to switch from ISO to backhoe control patterns.
The KOMTRAX machine monitoring system allows managers to track their machines usage and fuel consumption. Komatsu compact excavators have construction size features, says the company, such as steel castings in key, high stress areas such as the boom foot and tip for long equipment life. Komatsu notes that its excavators are distinguished by the Komatsu designed and manufactured components that maintain the quality and reliability for which Komatsu is known. The phrase “Komatsu Harmony” means all major components are designed in-house to maximize efficiency.
Advice to Buyers
“Durability and reliability are important factors that should not be overlooked when purchasing a compact excavator,” explains Rob Orlowski, excavator product manager with Komatsu America Corp. “Steel castings used in work equipment can be more resistant to torsional stresses than fabrications. Major components that are designed in-house can make a big difference in quality and the overall operator experience because they work together harmoniously as compared to outsourced components. Ground clearance is also important and should be taken into consideration. A few inches of additional ground clearance can make a big difference and help a compact excavator maneuver over and around the tight confines of a jobsite.”
