Komatsu America Corp.’s (KAC) PC78US-8 compact hydraulic excavator is designed for increased production and added operator comfort, when compared to previous models. The new excavator is well-suited for a variety of construction, utility, landscaping and other small- to mid-sized applications, according to the manufacturer.

The PC78US-8 is equipped with KOMTRAX technology, which sends machine operating information to a secure Web site utilizing wireless technology. Data such as operating hours, machine location, maintenance notifications, out of area notifications, machine utilization, and residual fuel levels are just a few of the features that are relayed to the Web application for analysis. The KOMTRAX fleet monitoring system increases machine availability and reduces the risk of machine theft.

Special features of the PC78US-8 include:

Power and Performance

The PC78US-8 gets its power from a Komatsu SAA4D95LE-5 engine with a net horsepower of 55 hp (41 kW). The direct injection engine is EPA Interim Tier IV emissions certified.

The PC78US-8 has an operating weight of 16,240 lbs. (7,366 kg) and features a maximum digging height of 24 ft. 11 in. (7.6 m), a maximum digging depth of 15 ft. 5 in. (4.7 m), an arm crowd force of 7,760 lbs. (3,520 kg) and a bucket breakout force of 13,780 lbs. (6,250 kg).

Advanced Hydraulics

Using Komatsu’s HydrauMind hydraulic system, the PC78US-8’s pressure compensating CLSS system ensures each function works according to its control input regardless of the load, giving the operator precise control. Utilizing an engine speed sensing system, engine speed is maintained regardless of load condition, ensuring that the engine’s full power potential is available.

Auxiliary hydraulics come as standard equipment, and the flow can be adjusted from the operator’s seat via the 7 in. color multifunction monitor. Flow range can be adjusted from 5.3 to 33 gpm (20 to 125 Lpm) depending on the attachment requirements.

Customized Applications

Five working modes allow the operator to tailor machine operation to the given application, either maximizing power during difficult workloads (power mode) or conserving fuel when the job doesn’t require maximum power (economy mode).

When placing pipe or other objects, lifting mode reduces engine RPM, providing fine control. Breaker and attachment modes are available to provide single or bi-directional flow depending on the attachment being used. (Breaker, thumb, grapple etc.)

Service and Maintenance

A number of features facilitate ease of maintenance, including an engine hood that can be opened in confined spaces providing access to key service points, and a wide opening side hood that provides access to the fuel and hydraulic tanks, selector valve for auxiliary hydraulics, washer fluid, and overflow for radiator.

For more information, visit www.komatsuamerica.com.

This story also appears on Truck and Trailer Guide.

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