Downer takes first five big Komatsus

The Komatsu 830E-5 is a 230 metric tonne capacity dump truck said to be the most technologically advanced 240-US ton class truck Komatsu has produced to date.

It incorporates new engine and drive system features that deliver improved performance, intelligent parasitic load control on the engine, up to 80 per cent lower particulate matter (PM2.5) emissions and better fuel efficiency.

Ryan Kirkwood, Downer's General Manager Plant, said the purchase of these new 830E-5 trucks was a result of the company's long-standing operational history with Komatsu electric-drive dump trucks.

"For a number of years, we have successfully operated large fleets of Komatsu 830Es and 930Es - both internally and for clients," he said.

"It was an obvious decision to transition to the new 830E-5 for a key project in Western Australia.

"We are moving towards an optimised excavator-to-truck match capacity, which offers significantly more benefits, beyond just efficient operational productivity," said Kirkwood.

"Considering our long-standing relationship with Komatsu and the trucks we already have in operation, the new 830E-5s provide synergies in operator training, as well as the ergonomic benefits that come with a new design."

Key factors in Downer's decision to purchase the first five 830E-5s in Australia included their improved reliability, low maintenance intensity - including extended service consumable hours, long-term mechanical availability, and proven extended frame lives beyond 80,000 hours.

According to Jason Arthur, Komatsu's National Product Manager - Mining, improvements over Komatsu's proven 830E-1AC include improved levels of operator safety and comfort, increased speed on gradients through horsepower variations, and higher payload capacity.

"The 830E-5 model also has significantly increased parts commonality with our larger 930E-5 model, allowing for reduced stocking levels on sites running both models," he said.

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"Incorporating the latest technology engine and drive system technology, the 830E-5 provides significantly lower noise levels, an 80% reduction in particulate matter emissions, and reduced fuel consumption as part of our drive to achieve lower-energy mining operations.

"It's also a highly flexible platform, offering future technology expansion capabilities including machine autonomy and trolley-assist options that provide alternatives to diesel fuel and reduce Scope 1 emissions," said Arthur.

Brief specs:
Standard payload: 230 tonnes
Capacity (2:1 heaped): 158 cu m
Loading height: 6.26m
Engine: Komatsu SDA16V160 diesel rated at 2500hp (1865 kW) gross (2700hp option available)
Drive: AC current with AC torque control system
Max speed: 64.5 km/h
Continuous rated electric dynamic retarder: 3207 kW
Tyres: 50/80 R57
Overall length: 14.65m
Overall width: 8.95m