Komatsu Germany Mining division and Canadian-based SMS Equipment have revealed the latest development in Komatsu’s fleet of hydraulic mining excavators for surface mining: the PC9000. The OEM confirmed that the new model will be the largest in Komatsu’s hydraulic mining excavator portfolio. It is optimized to suit Komatsu’s 830E through 980E mining truck sizes, improving cycle times and lowering the overall cost-per-ton of material moved.
“More productive and more efficient while achieving highest safety standards, the PC9000 marks an exciting evolution of our surface mining lineup,” said Peter Buhles, vice president sales & service at KGM.
“Komatsu is focused on creating value together. In developing the PC9000, we gathered input from our global customers and distributors to create a machine that responds to the mining industry’s emerging needs and is suitable for any type of surface mining application.”
The PC9000 features an extended reach aimed at supporting customers’ growing Autonomous Haulage Systems while a redesigned hydraulic system leads to lower emissions. A larger bucket and higher digging forces help improve cycle times.
The inaugural machine will be delivered to an undisclosed SMS Equipment client in Alberta’s oil sands region of Canada.
“Helping customers increase productivity and safety while reducing emissions is a big part of what we do as an equipment solutions provider,” said Dennis Chmielewski, executive vice president, Mining at SMS Equipment.
“That includes maintaining a continual feedback loop with customers and manufacturers that ensures customers’ needs in the field are translated to future equipment models, as was the case with this machine.”