Komatsu Develops New Engine Technologies in Response to Next Emission Regulations in Japan, North America and Europe

Komatsu Ltd. (President & CEO: Kunio Noji) has developed a new diesel engine technology which is compliant with new emission regulations in Japan, North America and Europe. While present emission regulations in effect are very stringent on nitrogen oxides (NOx) and particulate matter (PM) in Japan, North America and Europe, upcoming regulations require further reduction of NOx and PM down to about 10%, which calls for a very advanced level of technologies on the part of manufacturers.

To reduce NOx, we need to lower the combustion temperature, which will, in most cases, increase the amount of PM and worsen fuel economy. Therefore, the development of diesel engines necessitates reduction of both NOx and PM at the same time, while improving fuel economy. In addition, construction equipment engines are also required to generate high performance, always at maximum power output and torque due to the nature of demanding use.

Komatsu has engaged in integrated production of diesel engines for construction equipment from R&D. Ranging from 3.3- to 46-liter emission engines*, they are mounted on PC120 hydraulic excavators and other medium-sized equipment to large haul trucks. Furthermore, by taking advantage of in-house development and production of engines, hydraulic units, control systems and major components, we have designed engines and equipment structures as an integrated whole and introduced engines which generate best possible performance under all kinds of conditions. By integrating leading-edge technologies into our proprietary engine technologies accumulated over the years, we have developed new engine technologies capable of reducing environmental impact while improving fuel economy.

*including some engine models which are jointly developed and manufactured by Cummins Inc.

We have improved the design of the combustion chamber located above the piston in order to further reduce not only NOx and PM but also fuel consumption and noise.

The electronic control system performs high-speed processing of all signals from sensors installed in the equipment body and engine to ensure total control of the equipment according to all kinds of conditions of use. It reduces fuel consumption and noise in addition to NOx and PM.

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