Komatsu teases XT

Komatsu America Corp has released a sneak peek of its new XT-5 Series of track feller bunchers.

The new models, which are expected to hit the market in the fourth quarter of this year, include the non-leveling XT430-5, the XT435L-5, XT445L-5 and XT465L-5, which replace the prior XT-3 Series machines.

The XT-5 Series ranges in operating weight from 30,100 kg to 33,800 kg and features a new, more powerful fuel-efficient EPA Tier 4 Final engine, gull-wing style engine hood, increased lift capacity, heavy-duty undercarriage, redesigned and relocated cab, new hydraulic and cooling systems, forestry-specific guarding and Komtrax telematics system technology.

"We have been systematically gathering and analyzing voice-of-the-customer input to define our next generation of feller bunchers," said Mitsuhiro Utsumi, vice president of forestry product marketing for Komatsu America Corp. "This new XT-5 Series represents the culmination of translating that entire input into feller bunchers, which truly meet the needs of today's demanding loggers. Shipments of the XT445L-5 model will start in the fourth quarter of 2018, with the other models to follow."

The new 310 peak hp, Cummins QSL9 9-litre engine provides more horsepower, torque and displacement and lowers fuel consumption by as much as 10 per cent, due to advanced engine and hydraulic system control designs. Lift capacities at full reach have been increased by 77 per cent on the XT430-5, XT435L-5 and XT445L-5, and by 15 per cent on the XT465L-5. As well, the XT465L-5 now readily operates the Quadco 61 cm cutting capacity disc saw heads.

The Komatsu forestry cab has been relocated to the left of the boom for industry commonality. Cab design changes provide superior lines-of-sight to each track. Standard rearview and optional right-side view monitoring systems further enhance the operator's view. Furthermore, 11 LED lights provide superior visibility for night operations.

Komatsu's highly intuitive, IQAN-MD4 digital control system programming allows up to three different operators to program their individual control patterns for increased multi-operator productivity. An IQANsync mobile phone app is available to allow remote access to perform IQAN system functions.

The new Komatsu heavy-duty undercarriages significantly increase service life, according to the company and include:

The XT-5 machines also include larger capacity, hydraulic piston pumps for the implement, attachment and disc saw, which operate at 500 rpm lower speed, while providing high flow. Each pump has pressurized suction inlets to reduce cavitation risk. Boom, arm and rear hydraulic tubes and hoses have robust forestry-specific guarding that improve protection and shed debris.

The new cooling system features a larger radiator, charge air cooler and a single hydraulic cooler. All coolers have been relocated to the rear of the machine to minimize debris buildup. Separate radiator and hydraulic oil cooler fan controls provide the cooling needed to maintain temperatures. Both fans have an auto-reversing function to help purge debris and maintain cooling efficiency.

A new gull-wing style engine hood folds down to provide an elevated service work platform. As well, four other service doors swing wide to provide service access. An innovative new hydraulic tank design features two tanks, which require 55 per cent less total hydraulic oil and a refill requires only 171 litres. The attachment control valve has been relocated from the main control valve to the arm for ease of service.

Komatsu's Komtrax remote equipment monitoring and management telematics system is standard on the XT-5 machines. It utilizes satellite-based technology to transmit valuable information such as location, utilization and maintenance records to a website. Komtrax provides advanced machine troubleshooting capabilities by monitoring machine health and issues caution and abnormality alerts. There is no subscription fee for the life of the machine.