2017 International Forest Industries Magazines February March 2017 | Page 49

Komatsu 931 XC
Komatsu 931XC – 8WD done right The Komatsu 931XC approaches eight wheels differently than other manufacturers . Naturally , it is built around Komatsu ’ s unique and well-proven chassis concept with an articulated joint and swing axle , a tilt function for the crane and cab , and Komatsu ’ s load-sensing stabilizer – a concept that has proven to be effective for several decades .
What ’ s special about the Komatsu 931XC is that the swing axle is replaced with a unique
swing bogie . The new bogie further improves stability with improved ground contact and a lower centre of gravity .
The central placement of the crane ensures that the machine ’ s
weight is evenly distributed between all eight wheels . This , and the fact that the Komatsu 931XC is the lightest harvester in its class , means that it performs outstandingly well on soft ground .
“ The design provides excellent handling characteristics as the machine follows irregularities in the terrain exceptionally well ,” the manufacturer said . “ In short , it ’ s a harvester with low ground pressure , great stability , and good comfort that provides the right conditions for effective production in steep terrain as well as on soft grounds .”
Operator comfort and ergonomics For Komatsu harvesters , increased emphasis has been placed on operator ergonomics . The machine design with the centrally placed crane and cab means that the operator always has great visibility and doesn ’ t have to turn his or her head when working , for instance , in thinning operations along narrow access roads .
Machine stability is another
key factor to operator comfort , this in combination with the machine levelling function Autolev provides a comfortable working environment . The option Autolev Advanced adds cab damping , for even more comfort .
The remote-controlled keyless system can control the heating and the main circuit-breaker / lighting from a distance of up to 300 m ( about 1,000 ft ). The keyless system is coded by the operator so that when the operator activates the main circuit-breaker they are automatically logged in to MaxiXplorer with the appropriate operator profile .
Optimal manoeuvrability in difficult terrain is key for a harvester to be truly productive
Komatsu
Komatsu 951
International Forest Industries | FEBRUARY 2017 / MARCH 2017 47