ITM or Berco Which Undercarriage Performs Better on the Komatsu PC1250

[MikePhua]

Komatsu PC1250 Excavator Overview
The Komatsu PC1250 is a flagship model in the large hydraulic excavator category, designed for mining, quarrying, and heavy civil engineering. Introduced in the early 2000s, the PC1250 series evolved from Komatsu’s proven PC1100 platform, offering increased bucket capacity, reinforced boom structures, and advanced hydraulic systems. With an operating weight exceeding 115 metric tons and engine output around 672 horsepower, the PC1250 demands a robust undercarriage system to handle extreme ground pressure and abrasive conditions.
Komatsu, founded in 1921 in Japan, has become one of the world’s top three construction equipment manufacturers. The PC1250 has seen strong adoption in Southeast Asia, Australia, and North America, particularly in coal and iron ore operations. Annual global sales of the PC1250 series are estimated to exceed 1,000 units, with many operating in remote or high-wear environments where undercarriage durability is critical.
Undercarriage Importance in High-Tonnage Excavators
The undercarriage of a crawler excavator includes track chains, rollers, idlers, sprockets, and bushings. These components bear the full weight of the machine and endure constant friction, impact, and environmental exposure. For machines like the PC1250, undercarriage wear accounts for up to 50% of total maintenance costs over the machine’s life.
Choosing the right undercarriage supplier can significantly affect uptime, operating cost, and long-term reliability. Two major aftermarket suppliers—ITM and Berco—are often compared for their performance on Komatsu’s large excavators.
ITM vs Berco Material Hardness Comparison
Hardness data for bushings and pins is a key indicator of wear resistance. The following figures illustrate the metallurgical differences:

• ITM Bushing:
  • Surface Hardness: 55 HRC
    
  • Case Depth: 55 HRC
    
  • Core Hardness: 52 HRC
    
• Berco Bushing:
  

• Surface Hardness: 60 HRC
  
• Case Depth: 50 HRC
  
• Core Hardness: 40 HRC
  

These numbers suggest that Berco bushings have a harder surface, which may resist initial abrasion better. However, ITM’s deeper case and higher core hardness could offer more balanced wear resistance and structural integrity under impact.
Terminology and Technical Notes

• HRC (Rockwell Hardness C): A scale used to measure the hardness of steel. Higher values indicate greater resistance to indentation and wear.
  
• Case Hardening: A heat treatment process that hardens the outer layer of a component while maintaining a tougher core.
  
• Core Hardness: Determines how well a part resists cracking under stress or impact.
  
• Track Chain Pitch: The distance between pin centers, affecting load distribution and wear rate.
  

Field Performance and Anecdotes
In Kalimantan, Indonesia, a mining contractor operating multiple PC1250 units reported that ITM undercarriages lasted 15–20% longer in high-silica environments. The deeper case hardening helped resist spalling and cracking during rock loading. However, Berco components showed better performance in clay-heavy conditions due to their smoother surface finish and tighter tolerances.
In Western Australia, a fleet manager overseeing iron ore operations noted that Berco rollers and idlers maintained roundness better over time, reducing vibration and improving operator comfort. Yet, ITM’s track chains showed less elongation after 3,000 hours of use, suggesting better pin-and-bushing retention.
Maintenance and Installation Considerations
Proper installation and tensioning are critical for maximizing undercarriage life. Recommendations include:

• Maintain track tension within manufacturer specs to avoid overloading bushings.
  
• Rotate pins and bushings every 2,000–3,000 hours in abrasive environments.
  
• Use high-quality grease and seals to prevent internal contamination.
  
• Inspect roller flanges and idler alignment monthly.
  

Operators should also consider the availability of parts and local support. In regions with limited Berco distribution, ITM may offer faster delivery and better technical assistance. Conversely, Berco’s global footprint and OEM partnerships can be advantageous in North America and Europe.
Recommendations Based on Application

• For high-impact, rocky terrain: ITM may offer better durability due to deeper case hardening and stronger core.
  
• For smoother, clay-rich soils: Berco’s harder surface and precision machining may reduce wear and vibration.
  
• For remote operations: Choose the brand with better local support and parts availability.
  
• For mixed fleets: Standardize undercarriage components to simplify inventory and training.
  

Conclusion
Both ITM and Berco produce high-quality undercarriage systems suitable for the Komatsu PC1250, but their performance varies based on terrain, operating style, and maintenance practices. ITM’s deeper hardening profile may offer better resistance to cracking and deformation, while Berco’s harder surface and refined machining can reduce friction and improve longevity in softer soils. Ultimately, the best choice depends on site conditions, support infrastructure, and long-term cost analysis. For operators managing high-tonnage excavators in demanding environments, undercarriage selection is not just a parts decision—it’s a strategic investment in uptime and productivity.