SURFACE LOADING
The PC9000-12 is now available worldwide through Komatsu’ s global dealer network
Load factors
Paul Moore looks at latest developments with both rope shovels and hydraulic excavators, from new launches to repowers and digital monitoring solutions
For the world’ s largest mines, going bigger is one way to maximise productivity. Komatsu Germany Mining Division( KGM) after a long wait in the market recently announced the global launch of the PC9000-12, described as“ the largest and most innovative hydraulic mining excavator in Komatsu’ s portfolio.” Following its successful market introduction in Canada, the PC9000-12 is now available worldwide through Komatsu’ s global dealer network.
Representing the next evolution in Komatsu’ s surface mining lineup, the PC9000-12“ is engineered to help mining operations achieve higher productivity, improved efficiency and lower cost per ton – while delivering the power, performance and reliability customers rely on.” Designed to operate in the toughest mining environments, the PC9000-12 can be configured with diesel Tier 4, diesel unregulated or electric drive. This flexibility allows mining companies to align their equipment selection with regulatory requirements and site-specific conditions.
As the largest model in the PC series, it offers the highest bucket capacity, longest reach and highest digging power in the PC series, ultimately leading to optimised cycle times, increased output and reduced production costs. The PC9000-12 is globally available in both front shovel and backhoe configuration, equipped with a 46 m ³ front shovel or a 49 m ³ backhoe bucket. It is precisely optimised to load Komatsu’ s largest mining trucks in the range of 240- 400 short tons in a 3-5 pass match. With a payload of more than 80 tons per pass, it can load a Komatsu 980E truck in just five passes in under 150 seconds. Under optimal conditions, this translates into production rates of around 8,000 tons per hour.
Built with future-ready mine sites in mind, the PC9000-12 is designed for efficient double-side loading and is compatible and integrated with Komatsu’ s FrontRunner Autonomous Haulage System. At the same time, operator comfort and safety remain central to the machine’ s design.“ The spacious, ergonomically optimised operator cabin and advanced monitoring systems support reduced operator fatigue, improved visibility and enhanced situational awareness – enabling high performance throughout every shift.”
“ Representing the next evolution in our product lineup, the PC9000-12 sets a new benchmark for global surface mining operations,” said Peter Buhles, Vice President Sales & Service.“ With its versatile configurations – including face shovel and backhoe, as well as diesel and electric drive options – we can efficiently serve all major mining operations worldwide. The PC9000-12 delivers the power, performance and reliability our customers expect, while supporting higher productivity, lower emissions per ton and seamless integration with autonomous haulage systems.”
The inaugural PC9000-12 was delivered in May 2025 to the Suncor Fort Hills oilsands operation in Canada. SMS Equipment acted as launch partner for the Canadian market, supporting the successful introduction and commissioning of the first machines in collaboration with Komatsu and the customer. With more than 100 years of expertise in mining technology, Komatsu Germany Mining Division says it continues to define standards in
Komatsu 4800XPC at Antamina
ultra-large hydraulic mining excavators for surface mining worldwide.
Staying with Komatsu but moving to rope shovels, copper-zinc miner Antamina reached a new milestone in its journey toward operational excellence in January 2026 by becoming the first and only mine in Peru to operate the world’ s largest shovel. The addition of the Komatsu P & H 4800XPC, one of the most advanced electric shovels globally, it adds strengthens its production capacity, raises safety and efficiency standards, and consolidates the development of its talent, reaffirming its position as a world-class mining operation. The new shovel has a loading capacity of up to 135 t per pass, representing an increase of between 30 and 35 t compared to the equipment currently in operation. This technology allows for the loading of an ultraclass truck in just three passes, compared to the four passes previously required, optimising loading cycles and significantly improving operational efficiency.
“ The commissioning of the world’ s largest shovel is a milestone for Antamina and for the country’ s mining industry. This advancement reflects our commitment to innovation and safety, and reaffirms our vision of operating with world-class standards,” stated Carlos Cotera, Vice President of Operations at Compañía Minera Antamina.
In addition to its impact on productivity, the shovel incorporates an advanced operational control system, which allows for more precise and controlled movement of the bucket during material unloading into the truck hoppers, reducing the risks associated with the manoeuvre and contributing to a safer operation. The cab has been designed according to ergonomic criteria, with excellent visibility, improving working conditions and operator well-being.
The equipment assembly process took approximately 90 days, during which outstanding safety performance was achieved, with zero accidents resulting
20 International Mining | MAY 2026