BIA introduces the two latest Komatsu mobile excavators in the weight classes of 16 and 20 tons: the PW168-11E1 and PW198-11E1. As the digit 8 in the model name already indicates, these are machines with a short swing radius. The new machines, like the two lighter short radius PW148-11 and PW158-11, and the conventional models PW160-11 and PW180-11, are developed and built at the Komatsu factory in Hannover, Germany.
The PW198-11 was already presented as a prototype at Bauma 2022. These new models are an addition to the Komatsu range of wheeled excavators; thus, the other models remain still available.
Powerful and efficient
The powerful Komatsu engines of 148 hp/110 kW (PW168) and 173 hp/129 kW (PW198) comply with European Stage V standards and are compatible with environmentally friendly HVO diesel. Thanks to higher power and lower consumption, the PW198 is about 20% more productive than the PW180-11, the conventional 20-ton wheeled excavator. The diesel particulate filter only needs to be replaced every 8000 hours. The machines also received upgraded axles and gearbox.
Both machines were developed simultaneously and share many components. They have a similar undercarriage and an almost identical upper structure (PW198 measures 5cm more at the rear). They also have a similar boom design. Of course, they are both available with a mono-boom or two-piece boom.
With their height of 3.1m, the PW168 and PW198 are the lowest in their category, allowing them to be transported on a standard low loader, limiting the transport height to 4m. Like any mobile excavator, the PW168 and PW198, with the addition of regulatory equipment, are designed for road travel. For this reason, plastic mudguards can also be ordered from the factory.
All components are strategically placed for optimal weight distribution. The center of gravity is lower, and the engine is positioned towards the rear. This makes the machines extremely stable, offering the highest lifting capacity in their weight classes, both forward, backward, and sideways.
Ergonomics and safety
To facilitate maintenance, some adjustments have been made, such as a service hatch for the AdBlue tank, easily accessible inspection points, a wide service step, and centralized oil and fuel filters. The status of the filters and service interval can also be checked from the cabin.
As with any Komatsu machine, special attention has been given to the operator's working environment for the PW168 and PW198. The spacious cabin has a smaller and more ergonomic steering wheel, which can also be folded further for better access. The new heated and ventilated Grammer seat has an adjustable lumbar support for hours of comfortable work. The noise level has also been reduced. The new ergonomic proportional joysticks can operate both attachments and the machine's direction (up to 15 km/h), ensuring smooth and intuitive manipulation of the machine.
Machines like these often operate on busy construction sites, making good visibility of the surroundings crucial for safety. Therefore, they come standard with the KomVision 360° camera system, large windows, and an upper structure with a lowered right front for better visibility from the cabin.
New for the PW168 and PW198 are provisions for installing a retrofit 3D guidance system. Thanks to mounting points for sensors, antenna, controller unit, and monitor, the machines can be quickly and easily upgraded with intelligent machine control. An aspect that is becoming increasingly important in the quest for greater efficiency on the construction site.
In summary, the PW168-11E1 and PW198-11E1 represent a new generation of mobile excavators with advanced features, a compact design, and environmentally friendly performance, making them efficient and future-proof for various applications.
