Improved hybrid technology, new-generation engine and total vehicle control systems combine to set new standards for fuel savings, performance and power

LAS VEGAS, March 8, 2017 - Komatsu America Corp., a leading global heavy equipment manufacturer, today introduced the new HB365LC-3 hybrid excavator at CONEXPO-CONAGG 2017. It features improved hybrid and total-vehicle-control systems, to help reduce fuel consumption by up to 20 percent, - depending on application - while maintaining or exceeding operating performance, compared to 36-ton, non-hybrid excavators.

“The new 36-ton-class HB365LC-3 excavator is built for power and production first, with the considerable fuel savings an added benefit,” said Kurt Moncini, Komatsu America senior product manager. “We applied everything we learned when we debuted the HB215LC-1, the world’s first fully-electric hybrid excavator in 2011. Now, we have the perfect balance of performance and fuel efficiency,” Moncini said.

Komatsu’s unique, fully-electric hybrid system uses an electric swing motor, which captures swing deceleration energy that would normally go unused, and makes it available to do work. The energy captured during each swing cycle is stored in an ultra capacitor, which provides energy for the swing system. The diesel engine also has a motor/generator for fast charging the capacitor when required, and to rapidly increase engine RPM from an ultra-low idle, for quick hydraulic response when boom, arm and bucket controls are activated.   

What makes the Komatsu system unique is the 100 percent electric swing system. The hydraulic power normally needed by the swing system is now completely available for boom, arm and bucket power, helping to improve digging cycle time and production.

To meet EPA Tier 4 Final certified requirements, the SAA6D114E-6, 269 HP engine combines a Komatsu Diesel Particulate Filter (KDPF) and Selective Catalyst Reduction (SCR) system with Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF) to meet NOx emission aftertreatment requirements.

Features and benefits of the new HB365LC-3 include:

Tier 4 Final Certified Engine Technology:

• A powerful and fuel efficient 8.85 liter, Komatsu SAA6D114E-6 engine, with 269 Net HP and the following technologies to meet EPA Tier 4 Final emission requirements:
  
  • Komatsu Diesel Particulate Filter (KDPF) aftertreatment system to reduce particulate matter.
  • Selective Catalyst Reduction (SCR) system, with Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF) injection, to help reduce NOx emissions. The SCR catalyst has no scheduled maintenance, and the same life expectancy as the engine.
  • Auto idle and auto idle shutdown systems to reduce fuel consumption and provide better management of nonproductive extended idle time.

New Performance Features Include:

• The revolutionary Komatsu Hybrid System, using swing energy regeneration and an ultra-capacitor to provide fast energy storage and instantaneous power transmission.
• Special hybrid control logic helps increase boom up and arm out multifunction speed, for improved productivity.
• New temperature-controlled viscous fan clutch helps reduce parasitic load on the engine and lowers sound levels.
• New KOMTRAX 5.0, shown on a large, 7-inch color screen, relays vital machine data, for easy monitoring and quick operator action.
• New Operator ID system records KOMTRAX machine operation and application data for up to 100 individual ID codes.
• Six working modes (P, E, L, B, Att-P, Att-E,) provide a wide range of performance and fuel efficiency, with energy-saving guidance incorporated into the monitor.
• Optional auxiliary hydraulic attachment circuit, with return filter, accumulator and programmable flow through the monitor, which can store up to 10 individual flow settings and customizable attachment names. Two-way attachments can also run in economy mode.

Comfortable Cab Design - Standard Features Include:

• A high-back and heated suspension seat, with new adjustable armrests that can be easily positioned to different heights without tools.
• An upgraded, high-resolution, LCD color monitor incorporates a standard rearview camera display with gauges.
• ROPS certified cab design conforms to ISO 12117-2 and meets Operator Protective Guard (OPG) (ISO 10262) top guard standards.
• Auxiliary jack to connect MP3 players or other digital devices for playback through the standard stereo speakers.
• Two 12-volt power ports provide a convenient power source for recharging and powering personal electronics.
• Standard secondary engine shutdown switch.
• A standard ISO/Backhoe pattern change valve simplifies changing control patterns to suit different operator preferences.

Designed for Easy Maintenance:

• The DEF tank and pump are in separate compartments for easy service access.
• High resolution LCD color monitor displays information and incorporates new Tier 4 Final technology that helps improve, simplify and manage maintenance.
• Engine Oil Check and engine/fuel filters are grouped on one side of the machine for easy maintenance access.
• Removable debris screen helps keep the engine and hydraulic cooler cores clean

The HB365LC-3, whether rented, leased or purchased, is covered by the Komatsu CARE^® program for the first three years or 2000 hours, whichever comes first. Komatsu CARE includes scheduled factory maintenance, a 50-point inspection at each service and up to two complimentary Komatsu DPF exchanges and up to two DEF tank flushes in the first five years.

Komatsu America Corp. is a U.S. subsidiary of Komatsu Ltd., the world’s second largest manufacturer and supplier of earth-moving equipment, consisting of construction, mining and compact construction equipment. Komatsu America also serves forklift and forestry markets. Through its distributor network, Komatsu offers a state-of-the-art parts and service program to support its equipment. Komatsu has proudly provided high-quality reliable products for nearly a century. Visit the website at www.komatsuamerica.com for more information.

Note: All comparisons and claims of improved performance made herein are made with respect to the prior Komatsu model unless otherwise specifically stated. Materials and specifications are subject to change without notice.

Komatsu America Corp. is an authorized licensee of Komatsu Ltd.  KOMATSU^®, and Komatsu CARE^® are registered trademarks of Komatsu Ltd.  All other trademarks and service marks used herein are the property of Komatsu Ltd., Komatsu America Corp., or their respective owners or licensees.