Komatsu HD1500-7 Provides Power, Reliability

Mon September 23, 2013
Komatsu

Powered by a turbocharged Komatsu SDA16V159E-2 engine, Komatsu's HD1500-7 has a nominal payload of 158.9 tons (43.3 t) and delivers 1,487 hp (1,109 kW) at 1,900 rpm. With the incorporation of VHMS and integrated payload meter as standard equipment, the HD1500-7 offers owners and operators a system for monitoring both the application and performance of this haul truck.

Power Plant

The Komatsu SDA16V159E-2, 16 cylinder, turbocharged diesel engine provides reliability while incorporating today's latest technology. The engines' Centry electric engine management system continuously monitors engine conditions and automatically adjusts for peak operation. A pre-lube system eliminates wear from both cold and hot starts for longer engine life. The optional Cense engine diagnostic system is integrated with KOMTRAX Plus (former VHMS) and provides real-time data for maintenance and operations personnel.

Drive System

As compared to the previous model, the HD1500-7 will feature an enhanced engine damper assembly, driving the Komatsu seven-speed, electronically controlled transmission. Both the front and rear propulsion shafts have been redesigned to provide a smooth transition of power to the updated final drive assembly. The final drive housing is cast with 55,000 lb. (24,948 kg) yield strength material and has been re-contoured to more effectively reduce stresses on the drive components. The final drive features planetary gear teeth with a larger profile and the internal drive shaft diameter has been increased to match the torque requirements of the drive train.

Performance

Compared to its mechanical drive competition, the HD1500-7 has more than 4 percent more horsepower, providing a 10 percent speed advantage on an effective 12 percent grade at maximum GVW. Downhill, the difference is even greater, with the HD1500-7 providing an 18 percent speed-on-grade advantage while traversing a negative 10 percent effective grade, fully loaded. In addition, the HD1500-7 has the tightest turning diameter in its class, a full 10 ft. (3.05 m) less than the competition. These distinct differences between the HD1500-7 and other trucks in its weight class translate to shorter cycle times, greater hauling efficiency, and a lower cost per ton, according to the manufacturer.

Parts Interchangeability Drives Success

The HD1500-7 has been designed to standardize many components with previous 530M/HD1500-5 mining trucks. This effort to make many components common between models gives access to an existing pool of new and remanufactured parts inventory to help maintain the HD1500-7. Service technicians can build on their experience with existing models.

Some of these common items include:

• Rim assemblies
• Front and rear suspensions
• Hoist cylinders
• Dump body
• Engine assembly including the radiator (SDA12V160 only)
• Fuel tank/hydraulic tank
• Most consumable items, (filters, belts and hoses)

Optional Equipment

The HD1500-7 is available with many of the same options that have proven to be valuable to existing Komatsu rear dump truck owners. These include:

• Arctic protection package
• Hot starts (engine oil, coolant, hydraulic tank)
• Deck-mounted mufflers
• Disabled truck quick disconnects
• Pressure fueling — remote LH
• Komatsu designed specialty body (where needed)

When matched with the Komatsu PC3000 hydraulic excavator, the HD1500-7 provides an excellent haulage complement, according to the manufacturer.

For more information, visit www.komatsuamerica.com.

This story also appears on Construction Equipment Guide.