

CAPITAL EQUIPMENT NEWS
JULY 2015
10
T
he new HB215LC-2 hybrid hydrau-
lic excavator is the third genera-
tion model which is based on well
earned Komatsu hybrid experience. The
HB215LC-2 is the result of years of Komat-
su research and development exemplifying
the company’s firm commitment to quality,
reliability and environmental stewardship.
Komatsu was the first in the industry to in-
troduce a hybrid excavator. Since that intro-
duction in 2008, the company has sold over
2 500 hybrid excavators worldwide.
Komatsu continues to strengthen its inno-
vation leadership in the construction equip-
ment market by delivering an excavator that
features enhanced hybrid components, a
new efficient Komatsu EPA Tier 4 Interim
engine and powerful lift capacity and sta-
bility. Further refinement of Komatsu hybrid
technology has further improved the fuel ef-
ficiency of the HB215LC-2 while still deliv-
ering fast and powerful swing performance
for the operator. The HB215LC-2 has an in-
creased operating weight of 49 383 lbs. and
a bucket capacity of 1.57 yd
3
.
The hybrid excavator is equipped with the
full featured KOMTRAX
®
remote monitoring
technology. Data such as fuel levels, oper-
ating hours, location, cautions and mainte-
nance alerts are relayed to the web applica-
tion for analysis. A new Auto Idle Shutdown
function helps reduce idle time as well as
operating costs.
The HB215LC-2 does not have a scheduled
replacement interval for its Komatsu Diesel
Oxidation Catalyst (KDOC). The KDOC in-
tegrated design allows this simple system
to remove soot using 100 % “true passive
regeneration” without the need for a Die-
sel Particulate Filter (DPF). The KDOC is
designed for long life without a scheduled
replacement interval. Less complexity and
truly seamless operation for the operator
means lower owning and operating costs.
Also incorporated is a variable-flow turbo-
charger that provides optimal airflow under
all speeds and load conditions.
The HB215LC-2 is powered by the Komat-
su Hybrid System, which includes Komatsu’s
electric swing motor, power generator mo-
tor, ultra-capacitor and a powerful139 HP
(104 kW) SAA4D107E-2-A diesel engine.
Komatsu developed its revolutionary hybrid
system to work on the principle of swing ener-
gy regeneration and energy storage using the
Komatsu Ultra Capacitor system. Komatsu’s
Ultra-Capacitor provides fast energy storage
and instantaneous power transmission.
The kinetic energy generated during the
swing-braking phase is converted to elec-
tricity, which is sent through an inverter and
then captured by the Komatsu Ultra Capaci-
tor. When accelerating under workload con-
ditions that captured energy is discharged
very quickly for upper structure rotation and
to assist the engine as commanded by the
hybrid controller. The reserve power stored
by the hybrid technology equates to ap-
proximately 60 additional horsepower. This
reserve power is available to maximize ma-
chine performance by supporting the engine
or is used for swing power.
The HB215LC-2 saves an average of 20 %
fuel with an equivalent reduction in CO
2
emissions as compared to the standard ex-
cavator model. The new Hybrid HB215LC-2
offers power and efficiency, yet reduces en-
vironmental impact.
The new cab provides a more comfortable
and quieter work environment to help oper-
ators maximize productivity. The ROPS-cer-
tified cab, specifically designed for hydraulic
excavators, gains strength from a reinforced
box structure framework. The cab is mount-
ed on viscous isolation dampers that help
provide low vibration levels. A higher ca-
pacity air suspension high back seat and
heat are standard for improved comfort. In
addition to the standard radio, a remote-lo-
cated auxiliary input for connecting external
devices is provided to play music through
the stereo cab speakers. Additionally there
are two 12 volt power ports incorporated
into the cab.
A high resolution 7” LCD color monitor fea-
tures enhanced capabilities and the operator
can easily select up to six working modes to
match machine performance to the applica-
tion. The monitor panel provides information
on ECO guidance, operational records, fuel
consumption history, and utilization infor-
mation. A standard rearview camera with a
wide landscape display allows the operator
to view directly behind the machine.
Komatsu’s third-generation hybrid excava-
tor has been designed for easier serviceabil-
ity and adaptability. The HB215LC-2 has an
additional service valve for use with hydrau-
lic attachments and a pattern change valve
as standard equipment.
b
KOMATSU HYBRID HB215LC-2
hydraulic excavator