Komatsu PC360 Hydraulic System Detailed Overview

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Machine Brief
The Komatsu PC360LC series crawler excavator is engineered for powerful performance in heavy construction, mining, and earthmoving operations. It features advanced hydraulics designed to improve efficiency, versatility, and operator control.
Hydraulic System Architecture

• Utilizes Komatsu's Electronic Closed-Center Load Sensing (E-CLSS) system, branded as HydrauMind, which dynamically adjusts pump output based on demand, optimizing fuel use and machine responsiveness.
  
• Features two variable displacement axial piston pumps supplying multiple hydraulic circuits including boom, arm, bucket, swing, and travel functions.
  
• The system offers a maximum combined pump flow rate of approximately 535 liters per minute (141 gallons per minute).
  

Hydraulic Pressure Settings

• Implement circuits (boom, arm, bucket): approx. 380 kg/cm² (54 MPa / 5,400 psi)
  
• Travel circuits: approx. 380 kg/cm² (54 MPa / 5,400 psi)
  
• Swing circuits: approx. 295 kg/cm² (41 MPa / 4,200 psi)
  
• Pilot control circuit pressure: approx. 33 kg/cm² (3.3 MPa / 470 psi)
  

Key Components

• Hydraulic Cylinders: Powerful cylinders for boom, arm, and bucket with bores ranging from 140 to 160 mm and strokes between 1,285 mm to 1,825 mm.
  
• Swing Motor: Hydrostatic swing motor with planetary reduction offering smooth rotation at approx. 9.5 rpm and swing torque around 11,386 kg·m (82,313 ft-lbs).
  
• Travel Motors: Hydrostatic axial piston motors powering each track independently with hydraulic and mechanical brake systems for safety and control.
  
• Hydraulic Tank Capacity: 188 liters (approximately 49.7 US gallons)
  

System Benefits

• The Closed-Center Load Sensing system ensures hydraulic oil is only pumped where needed, improving fuel efficiency and reducing heat generation.
  
• Electronic control enables precise and smooth multi-function operation, increasing productivity during complex tasks like simultaneous boom lift and swing.
  
• Six working modes allow operators to select optimized machine responses tailored for power or economy, breaker operation, attachment control, or lifting tasks.
  

Additional Features

• Auto idle and deceleration functions improve fuel savings during idle times.
  
• Self-diagnostic systems monitor hydraulic and engine performance to facilitate maintenance.
  
• Robust cooling system with suction-type fan and radiator fly screen protects hydraulic components from overheating.
  

Terminology

• Closed-Center Load Sensing (CLSS): Hydraulics system architecture that reduces unnecessary flow, pumping only what is required.
  
• Variable Displacement Pump: Pump capable of adjusting flow output to match system demand.
  
• HydrauMind: Komatsu’s proprietary advanced hydraulic control software integrated with engine management.
  
• Hydrostatic Travel: Drive system where hydraulic motors power tracks for variable speed and precise maneuvering.
  
• Swing Torque: Rotational force applied during slewing operation.
  

Summary
The Komatsu PC360 crawler excavator stands out with its sophisticated HydrauMind electronic hydraulic system, combining dual variable displacement pumps with smart load sensing for efficient, powerful hydraulic performance. With pressure settings designed to meet heavy lifting, fast cycle times, and smooth operator control, it strikes a balance between high productivity and fuel efficiency, making it an ideal machine for demanding earthmoving and construction tasks.