2018 International Forest Industries IFI Feb March 2018 Digital | Page 56

The levelling system on all Komatsu units benefits from the ‘Komatsu concept’ Komatsu’s harvester line-up of six individual models goes from the smallest Komatsu 901, optimal for thinning, to the large Komatsu 951 for final felling. All harvesters are based on the same pioneering technology, although the technology has been adapted for each machine to provide its unique characteristics – whether that entails creating an agile thinning machine or a powerful final felling machine. All models have a focus on operator ergonomics, machine stability, low energy consumption and good visibility. All to achieve maximum productivity. New to market: Komatsu 901XC The newest edition to the Komatsu harvester line-up is the eight- wheeled Komatsu 901XC, following the concept of the Komatsu 931XC. The 901 XC is a harvester for thinning in steep terrain and on soft ground. The eight wheels, combined with the Komatsu concept, ensures a stable machine with great manoeuvrability and low ground pressure. The cab-levelling function, which keeps the cab horizontal, is a feature common to all Komatsu harvesters. It provides a particular advantage when working in steep terrain since the crane’s slewing force are, by this function, retained whether the machine is working uphill, downhill or sideways in hilly conditions. The crane functionality together with the stability of the Komatsu 901XC makes it easier to perform precise crane movements and select the right tree, especially at long reaches when the crane is fully extended. The 901XC, as well as the 931XC, is part of Komatsu Forest’s new product series designed for challenging conditions where XC stands for eXtreme Conditions, such as steep terrain and wet ground. The series also includes tools such as the Komatsu Traction Aid Winch. Hydraulics All Komatsu harvesters have Komatsu Forest’s unique three- pump hydraulics, 3PS, with two-circuit hydraulic system. The unique pressure and flow optimisation enables significantly faster operation without losing power as the 3PS enables several crane and head functions to be used simultaneously with maximum hydraulic power and low energy losses. “Which means that you can utilise the engine performance to its maximum,” the manufacturer said. Transmission Komatsu Forest’s unique transmission gives the machines impressive starting tractive force and offers unique interaction between engine, control system and transmission. The hydrostatic, power-optimised transmission enables engine power to be fully utilised, providing excellent climbing ability. The Komatsu 901XC has reinforced Cardan shafts in the powertrain – everything to ensure top performance in demanding terrain. There are also several pre-set and task-specific driving The newest edition to the Komatsu harvester line- up is the eight-wheeled Komatsu 901XC modes. “The result is maximised productivity and benefit from every ounce of horsepower and every litre of diesel,” Komatsu stated. Operator environment Visibility and operator comfort are priorities in all Komatsu harvesters 54 International Forest Industries | FEBRUARY / MARCH 2018 All Komatsu harvesters have a high-performance operator environment. Some of the many benefits include the large cab volume, good visibility, noise reduction, smart placement of the screen for maximum visibility and remote control/key for controlling the electrical switch on and off, controlling lights, central locking of the cab and controlling the diesel heater. The levelling system keeps the cab horizontal, which means the operator is always sitting comfortably and relaxed. The cab itself, together with the crane, can be rotated 360°, providing a large working area. There are also a number of options, such as a variety of choices for optimal and effective working lights, floor heating, as well as three different joystick systems, including the model EME, which is especially designed for good ergonomics with more functions that are easily accessible on the joysticks, like sequence functions. The daily inspection can be performed simply and efficiently without needing to open the hoods. It is easier to access the inspection points and the most important ones can be monitored from the cab. Stability