July 19, 1999

Komatsu introduces 65-ton dump truck

Journal staff

VERNON HILLS, Ill. - Komatsu America International Co. introduces the 65-ton HD605-5 dump truck specifically designed for the quarry and heavy construction markets. Numerous design features provide optimum productivity, maneuverability, durability, safety and operator comfort.

"The HD605-5 is the quarry version of the HD465-5, Komatsu's 60-ton dump truck," says Lee Haak, Komatsu dump truck and wheel loader product manager. "It's modified to carry more weight with a 20 percent larger bed, yet it retains the speed and maneuverability of the smaller truck."

This truck may be huge, but it can do over 40 mph.

The 235,190 lb. HD605-5 features a durable, high-performance drive train; all electronic-controlled, seven-speed planetary transmission; advanced electronics; and a hydraulic system designed for power and control.

"The HD605-5 is ideal for quarry and rock applications because of its larger bed and hauling capacity," Haak says. "It can be fully loaded to 65 tons and with a bed of 52.3 cu. yd., bulkier materials, such as limestone, can be transported without spillage.

"Paired with a Komatsu WA700-1 wheel loader equipped with a 12-cu. yd. limestone bucket, it can be fully loaded in four passes making them an extremely productive team," Haak says. "The PC1100-6 also is a good match."

The HD605-5 is powered by the 715-hp Komatsu SAA6D170E emissionized engine which complies fully with EPA and CARB standards.

"It's the fastest truck in its class with a top-rated speed of 43.5 mph if conditions allow," Haak says. "An oil-cooled multiple disc retarder allows the truck to decelerate without frequent use of the brakes, permitting safe travel at higher speeds even down long, steep slopes.

"And because the HD605-5 has a superior power-to-weight ratio it climbs a grade faster as well," Haak continues. "It's a superior drivetrain because its an all-Komatsu drivetrain. The engine, torque converter, transmission, rear end, final drives, retarder/wet disc brake combination are all Komatsu designed, built, serviced and backed."

In addition to its speed, the maneuverability of the HD605-5 also offers a distinct advantage over other trucks in its class. "It's equipped with a MacPherson strut suspension connected to a lower cast steel A-frame that provides a wider space between the front wheel and the main frame," Haak explains. "As a result, the steering angle of the front wheel becomes larger, making the turning radius of the HD605-5 the same as a smaller 40-ton truck. The owner enjoys increased hauling production without having to enlarge present haul roads in order to use a 65-ton truck."

Productivity also is enhanced with K-ATOMiCS Komatsu Advanced Transmission with Optimum Modulation Control System.

"K-ATOMiCS provides a seven-speed fully automatic transmission that uses an advanced electronic control system to eliminate shift shock and torque cut-off to improve operator and engine efficiency," Haak says. "It automatically selects the optimum gear according to vehicle speed, engine rpm and the shift position chosen.

"This reduces transmission shock, prevents shift hunting and improves acceleration for improved cycle times. The result is continuous, smooth powerful acceleration from rest, smooth down shifting, synchronized engine speed when climbing slopes and slick clutch action for smooth stopping.

"Productivity is enhanced because shifting efforts are minimized, reducing operator fatigue," Haak continues. "By dramatically reducing jerk, the operator gains productivity advantages such as increased travel speeds and improved cycle times. Jerk reduction also cuts down on payload spills that result in costly haul road shut downs and clean-up operations."

"The HD605-5 truck is equipped with 2400R35 radial tires to get the maximum tmph (ton mile per hour) rating for our customers," Haak says. "We can also customize the tires to the application. Depending on the type of haul, there are different tread patterns and tire compounds available. Haul road surface, maximum speed, load type and temperature are all important in determining the correct type of tire to get maximum life."

The HD605-5 also is offered with several bed options. Beds can be ordered lined or unlined with floor thicknesses between 19 and 25mm.

And because the vehicle is equipped with a Roll-Over Protective Structure (ROPS) and offers an optional deck-mounted muffler, it can be used in belly dump and water tanker applications with minimal modification.

The HD605-5 two-door, walk-through cab includes a large, automotive-style dash. "Our customers prefer a modern, automotive-styled interior, so the cab is equipped with an electronically-controlled heater, air conditioner, tinted glass, intermittent wipers and turn signals," Haak says. "A tiltable steering wheel and adjustable seats with headrests assist in providing a comfortable ride."

In addition, the cab is mounted on rubber, viscous damping mounts to lessen vibration and noise. A hydropneumatic suspension allows for a smoother ride, which reduces fatigue and helps keep the operator productive.

"Dump trucks are constantly vibrating and bouncing, and if you can minimize that, you not only minimize fatigue, but the operator's productivity rate remains constant," Haak says.

Operators also benefit from light control efforts that allow them to maneuver the vehicle with one hand. For example, the electronically-controlled automatic transmission allows the operator to control direction and gear shifts while keeping his hand on the steering wheel. This enables instant gear changes with minimal effort, which eliminates the fatigue caused by constant shifting but does not sacrifice control, Haak explains.

The fully hydarulic steering system also allows for fast steering response and requires light effort even at law engine rpm which helps reduce operator fatigue and maximize productivity.

"We're very cognizant of all the lever efforts and the effort required to steer or shift," he says. "Komatsu controls are designed to simplify operation as well as increase productivity."

Features for operator safety include driver and passenger seat belts, multiple braking systems and an automatic back-up steering system. An electronic display monitoring system oversees the truck's operation, fluid levels and pressure levels, providing additional operational safety and reliability.

The HD605-5 includes a ROPS for operator safety. A rock deflector also extends from the bed of the truck overhanging the cab for additional operator protection.

"Our trucks are designed with the safety of the operator in mind at all times," Haak says. "All of Komatsu's truck components have been 'human-first' engineered to work together for the utmost in reliability and productivity."

Komatsu America International Company (KA) the second-largest supplier of construction equipment in North America, manufactures and markets the Komatsu, Dresser and Galion lines of hydraulic excavators, wheel loaders, crawler dozers, off-highway trucks and motor graders. Komatsu Mining Systems, Inc. (KMS), the second largest supplier of mining equipment in North America, manufactures and markets the Komatsu, Haulpak, DeMag and Modular Mining lines. Komatsu Utility Corporation (KUC), supplier of construction, utility and rental products, markets the Komatsu line of backhoe loaders, compact excavators, compact wheelloaders and compact dozers. KA; KMS; and KUC are supported by Komatsu Parts and Service and can be financed through Komatsu Financial. Visit Komatsu's website

Pacific North Equipment is the authorized, full-service, heavy equipment distributor for Komatsu, Dresser, Interstate, and Esco products in Washington, Oregon, Alaska, and eastern Russia.