Used Komatsu 210-8 Excavator

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Here is a detailed introduction to the Komatsu PC210-8 hydraulic excavator in English. The PC210-8 (often called the PC210LC-8 in its long undercarriage variant) is a mid-sized, 20-ton class excavator that has been a global workhorse in construction, quarrying, and infrastructure projects. Built on Komatsu’s proven Dash-8 technology, it balances power, precision, fuel efficiency, and operator comfort.

Overview

The Komatsu PC210-8 represents the eighth generation of Komatsu’s 20-tonne excavator line. It is designed to deliver high productivity with reduced operating costs. With an operating weight of around 20–22 tonnes, it is ideally suited for general excavation, trenching, loading, demolition, and material handling. The machine incorporates Komatsu’s advanced hydraulic technology, a robust frame, and intelligent electronic control systems that set a benchmark for reliability in demanding conditions.

Engine and Performance

At the heart of the PC210-8 is a Komatsu SAA6D107E-1 engine. This is a water-cooled, 4-cycle, direct-injection, turbocharged and after-cooled diesel powerplant that meets strict emission standards (EPA Tier 3 / EU Stage IIIA equivalent, depending on the market).

Displacement: 6.69 litres
Net power output: 110 kW (148 HP) at 2,000 rpm
Peak torque: High torque is available at low engine speeds, ensuring strong digging force and quick response without excessive fuel burn.
Ecot3 Technology: Komatsu’s advanced electronic fuel injection system optimises combustion, reducing particulate matter and NOx emissions while lowering fuel consumption by up to 10% compared to previous models.

The engine is coupled to a highly efficient cooling package. The radiator, hydraulic oil cooler, and after-cooler are arranged in parallel, and a hydraulically driven fan with a viscous clutch reduces noise and power drain by running only when needed. A reversing fan option is available to automatically clean out debris from the cooling cores, a vital feature in dusty or fibrous environments.

Hydraulic System

The PC210-8 uses Komatsu’s proprietary CLSS (Closed-Centre Load Sensing System) hydraulics. This system senses the load on each actuator and supplies exactly the required flow of oil, eliminating waste and giving the operator precise control.

Main pumps: Two variable-displacement axial piston pumps deliver a maximum flow of 2 × 214 L/min.
Total hydraulic flow: Combined with a gear pump for the pilot circuit, the system reaches impressive flow rates for fast cycle times.
Maximum working pressure: 37.3 MPa (380 kgf/cm²) for the implement circuit, allowing massive breakout forces.
Boom and arm regeneration circuits automatically recirculate return oil during lowering, improving speed and saving fuel.
Working modes: The operator can select from Power Mode, Economy Mode, Lifting Mode, Breaker Mode, and Attachment Mode. Each mode adjusts engine speed and pump output to match the task, optimising fuel efficiency or precision.

Digging forces are exceptional for this weight class:

Bucket breakout force: up to 114 kN (11.6 tonne-force)
Arm crowd force: up to 90 kN (9.2 tonne-force)

Undercarriage and Structural Durability

The PC210-8 is offered in a standard (PC210-8) and a long undercarriage (PC210LC-8) version. The LC variant provides superior stability for heavy lifting and working on soft or uneven ground.

Track frame: The X-shaped, box-section track frame is designed using finite element analysis to resist twisting and impact loads.
Track shoes: Available in widths from 600 mm to 800 mm (grouser shoes), with triple grouser shoes as standard for excellent traction and minimal ground disturbance.
Rollers and idlers: Sealed and lubricated track rollers and idlers extend service life, while the full-length track guards protect the undercarriage in rocky conditions.
Swing system: The swing bearing is a single-row, shear-type ball bearing with an internal gear. The swing motor delivers smooth acceleration and braking, with a swing speed of up to 12.4 rpm.

The boom and arm are fabricated from high-tensile-strength steel plates. Key stress areas are reinforced with thick castings, and all welding is automated for consistent quality. The box-section boom design resists bending and torsional forces during side loading or heavy digging.

Operator Environment

Komatsu places a strong emphasis on operator comfort to reduce fatigue and boost productivity over long shifts.

Cab: The highly rigid cab meets ROPS (Roll-Over Protective Structure) and FOPS (Falling Object Protective Structure) standards. It is mounted on viscous isolation dampers to suppress vibrations and noise. Interior noise is kept as low as 70 dB(A).
Seat: A high-back, air-suspension seat with adjustable armrests and lumbar support is standard. The entire console, including the joysticks, moves with the seat to maintain an ergonomic posture.
Joysticks: Low-effort, proportional hydraulic pilot control levers give fine metering for precise grading and leveling.
Display: A large, full-colour 7-inch LCD multi-function monitor shows machine health, fuel consumption, maintenance intervals, and the feed from the standard rear-view camera. All warnings and settings are accessible via a simple menu.
Climate control: An automatic air-conditioning system with optimised air outlets provides a comfortable working environment in all weather conditions.
Visibility: The narrow front cab pillar and large glass area, combined with a standard rear-view camera, give outstanding all-round visibility.

Technology and Monitoring

The PC210-8 was among the first in its class to be equipped with advanced telematics and electronic control as standard.

KOMTRAX (Komatsu Tracking System): This satellite-based monitoring system transmits machine data (location, working hours, fuel usage, error codes, maintenance alerts) to a secure web portal. Fleet managers can remotely track machine utilisation, set geo-fences for security, and plan maintenance, significantly reducing downtime and the risk of theft.
Equipment Management Monitoring System (EMMS): The onboard diagnostic system continuously monitors engine and hydraulic health. It provides real-time fault codes and alert levels to the operator and technician, allowing rapid troubleshooting.
Auto-deceleration: When the pilot controls are in neutral for a set time, the engine automatically returns to low idle, saving fuel and reducing noise. The moment a lever is touched, the engine instantly revs back to the set working speed.
Power Max function: A button on the joystick temporarily boosts hydraulic power for 8 seconds, giving an extra 7% of digging force to break through tough material.

Maintenance and Serviceability

Komatsu designed the PC210-8 for easy, ground-level daily maintenance, which encourages proper servicing and maximises uptime.

Engine access: The gull-wing style engine hood opens wide, and the bonnet tilts forward for easy access to the engine, filters, and cooling package.
Filters: All main filters (engine oil, fuel, hydraulic oil) are grouped behind removable side panels and are accessible from ground level. A standard fuel pre-filter with a water separator protects the fuel system.
Lubrication: Centralised greasing points for the boom, arm, and bucket linkage reduce service time.
Extended intervals: Engine oil and filter changes are set at 500 hours, hydraulic oil at 5,000 hours (with long-life oil), and coolant at 5,000 hours, reducing operating costs.
Ecology drains: The engine oil drain and radiator coolant drain are equipped with easy-to-use, environmentally friendly coupling valves that prevent spills.

Attachments and Versatility

The PC210-8 is highly adaptable. An auxiliary hydraulic circuit with proportional control is factory-fitted or can be added. This enables the use of a wide range of attachments:

Buckets: General purpose, heavy-duty rock, trenching, and tilting buckets.
Breakers: One-touch breaker mode sets optimal flow and pressure.
Grapples and shears: For demolition and scrap handling.
Compactors, augers, and rippers: For various specialised applications.

Quick couplers (both mechanical and hydraulic) can be integrated seamlessly, allowing the operator to change attachments in seconds without leaving the cab (with hydraulic coupler).

Key Specifications (PC210LC-8)

Specification	Value
Operating weight	20,700 – 21,800 kg (varies with config)
Engine model	Komatsu SAA6D107E-1
Net power	110 kW (148 HP) @ 2,000 rpm
Bucket capacity	0.66 – 1.30 m³ (heaped, ISO)
Max. digging depth	6,620 mm
Max. vertical wall depth	5,980 mm
Max. reach along ground	9,875 mm
Max. dumping height	6,760 mm
Bucket breakout force	114 kN (ISO)
Arm crowd force	90 kN (ISO)
Swing speed	12.4 rpm
Travel speed (Low/High)	3.0 / 4.1 / 5.5 km/h (depending on spec)
Tail swing radius	2,750 mm
Overall track length	4,460 mm
Track shoe width (std)	600 mm (triple grouser)
Fuel tank capacity	400 litres

Conclusion

The Komatsu PC210-8 is a well-engineered excavator that set a high standard for reliability, fuel efficiency, and operator comfort in the 20-ton class. Its combination of a powerful, low-emission engine, a responsive closed-centre hydraulic system, and intelligent monitoring technology makes it a productive and cost-effective choice for contractors. Even as newer models with Tier 4 Final emissions have emerged, the PC210-8 remains a highly respected and widely used machine around the world due to its proven durability and ease of maintenance.

Non flooded

No accident

Original product

Used Komatsu 210-8 Excavator

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