Komatsu Releases New Compact, Tight-Tailswing PC78US-11 Excavator For Cramped Work Environments

    Posted On: September 10, 2021

    The PC78US-11 has a 67.7-horsepower Komatsu SAA3D95E-1 engine and a viscous fan clutch that Komatsu says combine to lower the excavator’s fuel consumption by up to 13%. (Photo courtesy of Komatsu.)

    Komatsu this week announced the new compact PC78US-11 tight-tailswing excavator, designed to operate in limited-space environments such as underground utility settings, roadways, bridges, and urban areas. The PC78US-11 employs a high-efficiency 67.7-horsepower (50.5-kilowatt) Komatsu SAA3D95E-1 water-cooled, three-cylinder, four-cycle engine and viscous fan clutch. Komatsu says the power package lowers fuel consumption by up to 13%. The fuel savings come in part from a smart, simplified catalytic system that Komatsu says removes soot sans diesel particulate filter, translating to lower maintenance and ownership costs.

    Faster & More Responsive

    The PC78US-11 has a transport-friendly design and a conventional boom with a greater raising angle that yields a reduced front bucket swing radius. Komatsu says the excavator also provides a faster boom up/swing speed, which combines with a quick, responsive arm for easier excavating, leveling, and greater overall efficiency. Operators have six working modes at their disposal to match the excavator to a given task.


    Komatsu’s new compact PC78US-11 excavator was designed with a tight tailswing that makes it ideal for jobsites where space is at a premium. (Photo courtesy of Komatsu.)

    The PC78US-11’s climate-controlled cab is equipped with a high-resolution monitor that provides feeds from a rearview camera. The cab also features a sliding door for easier ingress and egress, air suspension seating, a large ceiling hatch, a pull-up front window, and a removable lower windshield. External LED work lights on the cab and boom improve visibility during nighttime work.

    Versatile Excavating

    Komatsu says the excavator’s standard high-flow auxiliary hydraulics and proportional joysticks provide operators with incredible job versatility and precise attachment control. Additionally, Komatsu says the new moldboard profile of the PC78US-11’s standard 7.58-foot (2.3-meter) grading blade enhances backfilling and light grading efficiency compared to previous models. The excavator has a bucket capacity of 0.12- to 0.26 cubic yards (0.09- to 0.20 cubic m).

    Source: Komatsu

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