Upgrades to Komatsu’s wheeled excavators promise multiple benefits

2300 Komatsu’s upgraded wheeled excavators, the PW180-11 and the PW148-11, have been designed to deliver greater efficiency, versatility and improved operator comfort with a range of updates on previous models.

“A lot of work went in to the redesign of these wheeled excavators, with a dramatic increase in versatility for customers,” says Sebastian Zienau, product manager at Komatsu Europe. “Joystick steering, an integrated system for controlling tools and the factory-installed quick couplers also boost performance and efficiency.”

Both excavators have Komatsu EU Stage IV engineers. The PW180-11, with operating weights between 17,600kg and 20,600kg, has a Komatsu SAA6D107E‐3 engine providing 123 kW/165 HP at 2000 rpm. Compared to the PW180-10, the new model delivers 3? lower fuel consumption.

The PW148-11 has an operating range between 14,200kg and 17,160kg. Its Komatsu SAA4D107E-3 engine delivers 90 kW/121 HP at 2,100rpm and is 13% more efficient than its predecessor.

Features aimed at improving operator comfort include a new boom suspension system, new seat designs with suspended consoles and an upgraded widescreen monitor panel. Joystick steering is also available as an option.

Either machine can be equipped with either a truck-type automatic hitch or a car ball-type hitch for a trailer up to 8 tonnes, with electric and hydraulic hook ups. The trailer’s functions can then be operated from the cab’s joysticks.