Komatsu Showcases Rugged PC230F-11 Forestry Processor At ConExpo

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The PC230F-11 processor that Komatsu displayed at ConExpo has an Auto Power Max feature that provides an 8.5-second burst of extra horsepower when a sudden difference in load weight is detected. (Photo courtesy of Komatsu.)

Attendees of the recent ConExpo-Con/Agg trade show had the opportunity to view the latest in forestry equipment from Komatsu, the PC230F-11 processor. The machine boasts an extra-durable exterior, a high and wide undercarriage, larger class-size components, and other features that help it stand up to rugged work environments. It also has an Auto Power Max feature that automatically senses sudden changes in load weight and provides an 8.5-second burst of extra horsepower, which proves especially handy during the delimbing process.

The PC230F-11 Up Close

The PC230F-11 is equipped with a 6-cylinder, 4-cycle, direct-injection Komatsu SAA6D107E-3 engine rated for 197 horsepower (147 kilowatts) at 2,050 rpm. Komatsu says the Tier 4 Final-compliant power plant is more fuel-efficient than its predecessor. The processor also has a variable-pitch-reversing fan to improve airflow and a 214.8-gallon (813-liter) fuel tank situated in the counterweight that provides twice the capacity as the tank in the previous PC210LL-10 model.

The PC230F-11 provides up to 29 feet (9 meters) of reach, 58,334 pounds-foot (79,090 newton-meters) of swing torque, and a swing speed of 11.7 rpm. Komatsu says the machine’s powerful swing system and large swing circle make easy work of moving large trees. Productivity also gets a boost from the dependable maneuverability the undercarriage provides, the company says.

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To stand up to demanding conditions of forestry work sites the Komatsu PC230F-11 includes features like heavy-duty glass throughout the cabin with extra reinforcement where it’s needed most. (Photo courtesy of Komatsu.)

A Rugged Design

The PC230F-11 has numerous design touches to help tackle high-debris environments and withstand falling limbs and other potential damage. The cabin is outfitted with thick glass all around, and the machine has 0.25-inch (0.63-centimeter)-thick heavy-duty rear compartment doors and 0.27-in. (0.7-cm)-thick heavy-duty under guards. There’s also a dustproof net for the radiator and oil cooler, and the right corner guard has a tree deflector. The wide-fin radiator, meanwhile, is protected by heavy-duty forestry screens.

To keep operators comfortable and safe while putting in long days, the PC230F-11 has grip-strut walkways and low-vibration viscous cab floor mounts. The high-back, cushioned air-suspension seat inside the climate-controlled cabin can be heated or cooled. To enhance operator visibility of the jobsite, customers can equip the processor with an optional sideview camera.

Source: Komatsu