Komatsu debuts specialty demolition excavator

Chicago-based Komatsu will debut its PC490HRD-11 demolition excavator in North America at the 2024 National Demolition Association (NDA) annual convention. That event takes place March 6-9 in San Antonio, Texas.

Komatsu describes the new excavator as a highly versatile machine that’s easily reconfigurable for changing work demands. The model features a 362 horsepower engine, or 270 kilowatt electric configuration, and is engineered to help customers achieve higher efficiency at the demolition job site, the company says.

The PC490HRD-11 uses Komatsu’s in-house boom change system that includes oversized quick connectors for the hydraulic lines. The connectors are designed to minimize back pressure and oil heating without restricting oil flow, Komatsu says.

The system also features hydraulically powered pins mounted inside the main boom structure to help reduce the risk of damage to the equipment during reconfiguration.

Komatsu says the hydraulically expandable undercarriage enables the tracks to be narrowed for transportation and then expanded for working. A tilting demolition cab allows the operator to use joysticks to position the cab for an optimal view.

The PC490HRD-11 offers six different working arrangements, with a boom extension for higher reach or extended digging boom.

Komatsu says for the first time it will be featuring a special demolition specification of the 257 horsepower (192 kilowatt electric configuration) PC360LC-11 excavator at the show. The demolition version of the PC360LC-11 will be launched in the North American market within the next 12 months, according to the company.