Komatsu Australia has announced the release of its biggest ever haul truck, the massive 363-tonne rated 980E-4.
Built for bulk material movement, the big Komatsu is powered by a SSDA18V170 diesel engine configured to Tier 2 emissions standards capable of pushing out 2611kW and delivering a top speed of 60km/h.
The truck also features a GE Mining dual insulated-gate bipolar transistor (IGBT) AC electrical drive system which Komatsu says helps deliver the lowest brake-specific fuel consumption in its class. This in turn provides the customer with the lowest cost-per-tonne possible.
“Komatsu was the first to introduce AC drive systems for ultra-class mining trucks in 1996, and has ever since continued to demonstrate to our customers in Australia and globally the incomparable performance and reliability that Komatsu trucks provide,” Komatsu Australia national product manager Scott Harrington says.
“The 980E-4 is based on the proven high quality Komatsu design that will deliver exceptional productivity and outstanding availability over the whole life of the asset, to provide our customers with the lowest cost per tonnage haulage option.”
In addition to its fuel efficiency, the 980E-4 has been designed to make maintenance as easy as possible in order to keep the machine up and running. Removable power modules, a simple hydraulics system with a single common tank, and oil-cooled multiple disc brakes for reduced break wear all contribute to the truck’s uptime.
Komatsu says that without maximised uptime, the reduced cost-per-tonne price won’t be reached by the customer.
“Komatsu ultra class mining trucks – including the new 980E-4 – will continue to provide industry leading availability performance,” Harrington says.
“This outstanding reliability allows our customers to maximise and maintain productivity targets through optimum use of loading tools, consistent planning of maintenance activities and efficient use of labour personnel.”
The 980E-4’s cab has also received an overhaul with adjustable air-suspension seats, an instrument panel with easy-to-use controls, air-conditioning and an automatic retard speed control engine braking system.
 |