Komatsu Introduces 150-Ton-Class Haul Truck

Oct. 31, 2022

The Komatsu HD1500-8E0 rigid frame off-highway haul truck is purpose-built for mining, quarry, and aggregate applications. 

It has a 1,570-horsepower Tier 4-F Komatsu SDA16V159E-3 engine and features a redesigned cab, along with a MacPherson strut-type, hydropneumatic suspension designed to provide operators with a smooth and comfortable ride.

It is also equipped with hydraulic, wet multiple-disc brakes on all four corners. The continuously cooled, large-capacity brakes also act as a highly responsive retarder, providing operators with confidence at higher speeds when traveling downhill. Downhill descent can also be controlled by setting a desired travel speed with the automatic retard speed control (ARSC), which applies the brake retarder to maintain the desired setting,

A tight turning radius (36 feet 9 inches) allows operators to maneuver in and out of tight spaces when spotting to be loaded or positioning to dump. The MacPherson strut-type independent front suspension features an A-arm wheel-to-mainframe design for wide spacing and easy access to the engine bay.  

Komatsu’s Traction Control System (KTCS) provides control in loose or slippery haul road conditions by monitoring the rear wheels for slippage and automatically applying pressure to the independent wheel brake assemblies. 

The HD1500-8E0 has a 7-speed, fully automatic transmission with two configurable reverse speeds. Komatsu’s advanced transmission with optimum modulation control system (K-ATOMiCS) provides electronic shift control with automatic clutch modulation, promoting optimized clutch engagement at every gear to provide smooth shifting without losing torque, offering a comfortable ride while helping to reduce material spillage, the company says.

An integrated payload meter (PLM) manages the payload of each hauling cycle, analyzing production volume and the working conditions of the machine.

Designed with a convenient control layout, the ergonomic operator cab is equipped with an air suspension seat to help dampen vibrations. Seat heater and ventilator are equipped as standard. To help improve operator comfort, hydropneumatic suspension provides a smooth ride over rough terrain, while the low noise engine, fan clutch and cab sealing are meant to provide a quiet, low decibel operating environment.

The KomVision, a 360-degree monitoring system uses six cameras for a real-time view of surroundings. A two-screen mode allows the operator to view the 360-degree bird’s eye view and any of the 6 cameras to be viewed simultaneously—on a dedicated monitor.

Designed for convenient preventative maintenance and servicing, a ground-level service center is located at the bottom of the HD1500-8E0‘s hydraulic tank, putting engine, transmission, brake control, and hydraulic oil filling evacuation ports accessible in one central location. The standard, automatic greasing system helps minimize maintenance time by automatically supplying grease at predetermined intervals. A battery disconnect switch, located on the left side of the vehicle, is accessible from the ground level. For security during maintenance, there are tie-off anchor points for safety harnesses.

The cold weather package includes electric heating elements for engine oil pan, coolant, steering, hoist oil tank, transmission oil pan, and brake oil tank, which plugs into an external power supply. The engine is also equipped with a standard cold weather ether starting aid system.

About the Author

Frank Raczon

Raczon’s writing career spans nearly 25 years, including magazine publishing and public relations work with some of the industry’s major equipment manufacturers. He has won numerous awards in his career, including nods from the Construction Writers Association, the Association of Equipment Manufacturers, and BtoB magazine. He is responsible for the magazine's Buying Files.