Special Feature Environmental Performance of Excavators

Since our founding, the KOBELCO CONSTRUCTION MACHINERY GROUP has constantly striven to develop state-of-the-art environmental technology. At KOBELCO, we are very proud of the environmental performance of our hydraulic excavators through achievements such as low fuel consumption performance that is among the best in the world, low noise generation that is considerate of the surrounding environment, and the development of environmental engines that provide clean exhaust gas, and we plan to continue to improve such positive performance.

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1AIS(Auto Idle Stop)

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   The engine is stopped when the safety lock lever is lifted up. This eliminates wasteful idling during standby, thereby saving fuel and reducing CO2 emissions as well.

2Low Noise

Complies with the basic values of "Ultra-low noise type of construction machinery" as approved by the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism. (Application submitted)

3Fuel Consumption Approx.12％ Reduction
(Compared to the H-mode of SK200-9 model)

Pursuing Even Lower Fuel Consumption

We have achieved improved fuel consumption performance in all modes in comparison with previous models by introducing a new boom/arm regeneration that efficiently controls the hydraulic flow and reducing pressure loss. We have achieved an approximate 38% reduction in fuel consumption over the past 10 years.

4CO2 Emission Approx.22％ Reduction
(Compared to Eco-Mode of the SK200-8 model)

The fuel consumption of our machines has been reduced, thereby decreasing CO2 emissions, by the continuous development of low-fuel consumption functions such as our unique hydraulic system and AIS. CO2 emission of the new model (10 model) has been reduced by approximately 22% in comparison with the 8 model.

5Nox emission Approx.88％ Reduction
(Compared to SK200-9 model)

1. Satisfies 2014 Exhaust Gas Regulations

   The engine exhaust system is equipped with an urea SCR*1 system that breaks down NOx*2 into harmless nitrogen and water. The combination of this system with exhaust-gas after-treatment devices*4 that thoroughly collect and incinerate PM*3 provides extremely clean exhaust gas.
   
   ※1. SCR：Selective Catalytic Reduction
   ※2. NOx：Nitric oxide
   ※3. PM：Particulate matter
   ※4. Exhaust-gas after-treatment devices:DPF or DOC

   

6The Collision Reduction System(K-EYE PRO)

We have newly developed the collision reduction system (K-EYE PRO) equipped with an automatic stop function. This system includes a function that detects nearby persons and objects not only when the machine is moving but also when only rotating, and decelerates or stops operation when a person or object is detected nearby. It also enables operation in a direction where no hazards are detected even after stopping in order to improve work procedures and provide safety.

The leading edge SK Series Model 10 was innovatively developed from the 8 Model, which had become a landmark model thanks to its incredible fuel consumption performance, and it was first introduced in Japanese market in 2016. For this new model, we pursued "Power meets efficiency". In order to achieve a machine that could operate continuously with great durability in all kinds of conditions and environments, we had to make detailed adjustments to match each region. Takayuki Doi, in charge of technical development of electrical systems, talked to us about the full model change for this popular model. "Finding a way to improve fuel performance while also further improving power and durability seemed like an impossible challenge. We had to revise everything from the shape to the layout of parts and wiring in order to provide the necessary capabilities for environments that differ completely in terms of temperature, humidity, dust and method of use." The model first went on sale overseas, where users could not hide their surprise at how the new model could provide advanced energy-saving functions as well as power even in severe working environments.
KOBELCO is also a global pioneer in hybrid excavators. The "SK200H-10", a flagship model that incorporates all the best hybrid technology, was launched in 2016. It was the first 20-ton class vehicle in the industry to use lithium ion batteries. In comparison with conventional capacitors, these batteries improve the electrical storage capacity, durability and assist efficiency. This allowed us to change swinging operation from hydraulic fluid to electric-motor power. Making swinging operations completely electrical provides smoother quicker swinging performance.

Development was started in 2011. Further advancing low-fuel consumption while also increasing power was an issue even for a hybrid machine. The project team focused their attention on lithium ion batteries, which had never been used for passenger vehicles in Japan at that time. The coordination with KOBE STEEL’s Kobe Corporate Research Laboratories and battery manufacturers enabled us to proceed with the first domestic development.
"We made numerous small batteries and tested them repeatedly while changing various conditions." A few years later, actual on-vehicle testing started. "It was also necessary to perform actual testing under severe environments. We even went to Finland in mid-winter to perform cold climate testing." The final result was the birth of a new technology aimed at achieving new low-fuel consumption without sacrificing power or speed.
KOBELCO will continue to create excavators with continuously durable operation that are environmentally friendly even under the harshest conditions.