Komatsu America Corp. announces the introduction of the PC228USLC-8 hydraulic excavator. A leader in excavator technology, Komatsu's latest tight tail series builds on the proven reputation of its previous model with hydraulic system enhancements, improved operator control and comfort, increased lift capacity and stability, and lower fuel consumption.

The PC228USLC-8, with an operating weight of 53,195 to 54,405 pounds, is powered by a Komatsu SAA6D107E-1 engine. The electronically controlled HPCR (High Pressure Common Rail) fuel injection system is EPA Tier 3 emissions certified, provides low noise operation, and remains extremely fuel efficient while delivering superior power and productivity.

The PC228USLC-8 is equipped with the latest KOMTRAX technology which sends machine operating information to a secure website 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 monitors machine availability, reduces the risk of machine theft and provides a wealth of other information to drive business efficiency.

Special features of the new PC228USLC-8 include:

Short Tail Swing Radius and Round Cab Design
The PC228USLC-8 tail is more compact than a conventional excavator, which allows the machine to work in confined areas for road, bridge, and urban applications. The boom foot position and raising angle is higher than on the PC200LC-8, giving the machine a shorter swing radius for the work equipment. The round cab design allows the cab to swing within the same turning radius as the counterweight, further enhancing the versatility of this model in tight working conditions.

Increased Lift Capacity and Stability
The PC228USLC-8 features 2,865 pounds of additional counterweight. With this additional counterweight mass, the lift capacity over the front and side of the machine is increased providing higher machine performance when heavy lifting is required.

Hydraulic System Enhancements
Using a Closed Center Load Sensing (CLSS) system, the hydraulic system of the PC228USLC-8 has been enhanced to increase efficiency, lower hydraulic loss, and lower fuel consumption. The excavator features "variable speed matching," a highly efficient matching technique that optimizes the performance of both the engine and hydraulic systems, giving the operator power on demand when needed. Increasing the piping size on the bucket circuit and adding a new quick return valve have also reduced hydraulic loss. These hydraulic system enhancements have increased speed and productivity, yet reduced fuel consumption.

New Large Multi-Color Monitor
The easy-to-view 7" LCD monitor enables accurate smooth work and displays data in 12 languages for global support. There are five modes of operation that may be selected through the monitor panel: Power Mode, Economy Mode, Lifting Mode, Breaker Mode and Attachment Mode. The monitor panel also displays the automatic air conditioner, machine maintenance tracking, and the image from the standard, counterweight-mounted rearview camera system.

Enhanced Operating Efficiency through Ease of Maintenance and Serviceability
In order to reduce costly downtime, the PC228USLC-8 provides access for ease of service and maintenance. The radiator, hydraulic oil cooler, and charge air cooler are mounted side by side, making it simple to maintain and service these components when required.

The machine is equipped with the exclusive Komatsu EMMS (Equipment Management Monitoring System), which performs three main functions that are displayed on the large LCD color monitor. EMMS continually monitors all critical excavator systems, alerting and guiding the operator should an abnormality occur, which can help keep a small problem from becoming a major service issue, thereby contributing to reduced-operation costs. EMMS also tracks the preventative maintenance schedule, provides on-board tracking, and advises current required maintenance. In addition, the system provides error codes and troubleshooting assistance to mechanics in order to minimize diagnosis and repair time.

Built For Durability And Reliability
All major components on the new PC228USLC-8 including the engine, hydraulic pumps, motors, and control valves are exclusively designed and produced by Komatsu. The boom and arms exhibit long-term durability and are highly resistant to bending and torsional stress due to large cross-sectional structures, high tensile strength steel, interior partition walls, and large one-piece castings.

Highly reliable and exclusively designed electronic components such as controllers, connectors, sensors, and wiring have undergone extensive testing to ensure reliability in the harshest conditions. The electronic connectors are DT-type and seal against dirt and moisture. For additional reliability, metal guard rings protect all hydraulic cylinders. Hydraulic hoses are equipped with O-ring seals versus conventional taper seals to help prevent leaks. Long replacement intervals for hydraulic oil, engine oil, and filters keep the machine up and running for increased hours on the job.

Versatility To Match Different Job Applications
The PC228USLC-8 is equipped with five working modes and Power Max control. These modes are designed to match engine speed, pump flow, and system pressure to specific application requirements, providing the operator with the flexibility to match equipment performance to the job at hand. Since many excavators operate a wide variety of working attachments, the PC228USLC-8 is equipped with Breaker Mode (single action circuit) and Attachment Mode (double action circuit), allowing the operator to adjust hydraulic flow directly from the cab through the large monitor panel. The attachment flow control has been improved and is more flexible for effortless attachment adjustments. In hard digging applications, a one-touch Power Max Function increases digging force by 8% for 8.5 seconds, creating a noticeable difference in digging performance.

Cab Enhancements Provide Comfortable Working Environment
A wide spacious cab with a high back operator seat provides excellent support and comfort for reduced fatigue and higher productivity. The highly pressurized cab minimizes the amount of dust that enters the operator's compartment, while its rigid frame offers wide visibility and has excellent sound absorption. The multi-layer viscous cab mounting system incorporates longer stroke and the addition of a spring. Combined with a high rigidity deck, the new cab damper mounting reduces noise and vibration levels at the operator seat. A high capacity automatic heater/defroster/air conditioning system is incorporated into the new monitor panel and is provided as standard equipment.

*All comparisons are to the Komatsu model PC228USLC-3.

KOMTRAX is a registered trademark of Komatsu Ltd.

Komatsu America Corp. is a U.S. subsidiary of Komatsu Ltd. which is the world's second largest manufacturer and supplier 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 the equipment. Komatsu has proudly been providing high-quality reliable products for nearly a century. Visit the website at http://www.komatsuamerica.com for more information.