World launch for new Komatsu 730E-8

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South Africa has been chosen as the launch-pad to introduce Komatsu’s impressive new AC-drive 730E-8 dump truck to the world-market.

This series has become a stalwart of the local mining industry making, the choice of launch destination a fitting tribute for a truck that has played such an important role in the development of southern Africa’s mines. Since its introduction nearly 21 years ago, the 730-series has moved mountains and become the benchmark for large mining trucks in terms of productivity, reliability and durability.

In its latest guise, however, the 730E-8 dump truck has received a complete redesign and has been reconfigured and rebuilt from the ground up to become one of the world most modern dump trucks for today’s ultra-efficient mining methods. This requirement has resulted in engineers seeking incremental improvements on every single aspect of the previous model truck, from power output, to improved efficiency, reliability and durability.

Improving a winning formula

Komatsu South Africa manager mining business, Frikkie Booyens, says the trucks are soon to be unveiled at a ceremony hosted by the launch customer in the Northern Cape. Five new 730E-8 trucks will enter service at the iron ore mine where they are expected to significantly boost productivity.

He explains that the focus of mines has changed significantly in recent years and requirements for equipment have changed as well. Even the best machines from yesteryear need to be improved to meet new requirements that are able to make mines competitive on a global stage.

"The most significant upgrade over the previous model comes in the form of a new more powerful and efficient AC-drive power train. Like its heavier siblings in the 800 and 900-series, the move to more powerful AC wheel motors provides frictionless operation for improved performance and reliability, while significantly extending the periods between services and rebuilds.

"This not only allows the trucks to haul more loads per shift, up steeper inclines, but also to remain serviceable and productive for longer intervals between services compared with conventional DC wheel motor haul trucks. This means the new trucks will haul more loads per shift and move mountains more per annum than currently available models,” Frikkie says.

Tractive power

The wheel motor was designed for low-maintenance-high-power requirements of modern mines. It features a completely redesigned gear face to achieve drastically improved times between rebuilds. Delivering 373kW each, the motors have a standard gear ratio of 30.8:1 which provides the torque needed to navigate tough underfoot conditions of our mines.

Power is controlled with a unique traction control system to prevent spin and slide, while speed and cruise control is provided to allow operators to concentrate on the road and on the task at hand. With 2387kW of continuous retarding capability the operator is assured to be able to maintain safe operating speeds and with a tight 13.6 meter turning radius, is easily able to control the large vehicle.

Komatsu’s Payload Meter III provides accurate measure of loads to prevent overloading and is able to upload all parameters of the loading, movement, consumption and whereabouts of the truck to a remote control stations through its KOMTRAX Plus fleet management systems. The system also allows diagnostics on key engine, chassis and drive systems for optimization of maintenance schedules etc.

Strongest frame yet

Komatsu trucks are known for their durability and super-strong frames. This gives them the ability to keep working years beyond the usual calculated lifespan of a dump truck on a mine. Despite previous models’ already legendary frame strengths, the new Komatsu 730E-8 has gone a step further and been given the same Ultra-Class frame as its bigger brothers.

This allows it to easily handle 181 metric tonne (200 short tonne) payloads around the clock for years and has been designed to do so without failure. A simple and reliable hydraulic system compliments the rugged frame and is built to operate smoothly with little need for maintenance. Application specific load bodies are available to suit different mine types and a variety of productivity-enhancing options are available depending on individual requirements.

The Komatsu 730E-8 easily meets and exceeds the latest safety requirements and has been developed in conjunction with Komatsu’s main customers to make provision for future requirements as well. The cab and interior are designed to provide high levels of visibility and simple-to-use controls in a comfortable, productive environment. Displays and information required to effectively operate the machine are also readily available, making the Komatsu 730E-8 one of the easiest dump trucks in the class to operate and maintain.

"This truck is designed for productivity and despite its smart features and electronic aides is designed to be the toughest and most reliable mining truck in its class,” Frikkie concludes.

Tech specs

Nominal GVW: 328 401kg
Horsepower: 1492kW (2000HP)
Payload: 181 metric tonne (200 short tonne)
Engine: 16 cylinder Komatsu SSDA16V159E-2
Suspension: Hydro-pneumatic with rebound control
Weight (empty): 146 963Kg
Length: 13.7 meters
Height: 6.81 meters