Komatsu America Corp has introduced the Hybrid HB215LC-1 hydraulic excavator into the North American market. Now in its second generation, the HB215LC-1 builds on the first generation Komatsu hybrid excavator.
The HB215LC-1 is powered by the Komatsu hybrid system, which includes Komatsu’s electric swing motor, power generator motor, capacitor and a 141 hp (104 kW) diesel engine. Komatsu developed its hybrid system to work on the principle of swing energy regeneration and energy storage using the Komatsu ultra capacitor system. Komatsu’s ultra capacitors provide fast energy storage and instantaneous power transmission.
The kinetic energy generated during the swing-braking phase is converted to electricity, which is sent through an inverter and then captured by the ultra capacitor. This captured energy is then discharged very quickly for upper structure rotation and to assist the engine as commanded by the hybrid controller when accelerating under workload conditions.
The HB215LC-1 has an operating weight of 47,530 lbs. (21,559 kg) and a bucket capacity of 1.57 cu. yd. (1.2 cu m). Komatsu’s second-generation hybrid excavator has been designed for even easier serviceability. The HB215LC-1 has an additional service valve for use with hydraulic attachments and a pattern change valve as standard equipment. Also, the hybrid power train components are backed by a 5 year/7,000 hour warranty.
The HB215LC-1 saves an average of 25 percent fuel with an equivalent reduction in CO2 emissions as compared to the standard excavator model.