Komatsu tests world's first hydrogen-combustion-powered mining hauler
The company has developed a proof-of-concept version of the HD785
Komatsu Ltd. has developed a new concept by equipping its flagship dump truck, the HD785, with a hydrogen combustion engine. The company has begun to test the new truck at its Ibaraki Plant in Hitachinaka City. This test marks the world's first attempt to fit a large dump truck with a hydrogen combustion engine. Komatsu aims to accumulate knowledge on hydrogen engine use, which could lay the foundation for future development of hydrogen-powered construction and mining equipment.
Komatsu innovates new power sources for carbon neutrality
Komatsu has been advancing the development of new power sources to help achieve carbon neutrality. Together with the technological expertise of KEYOU GmbH, a German startup company that specializes in the development and implementation of hydrogen engines for large trucks, Komatsu has been able to focus on this innovation.
The concept machine is equipped with a hydrogen combustion engine and hydrogen tank system, which are co-developed by Komatsu and KEYOU. The hydrogen tank is mounted on a platform beside the operator's cab to maximize hydrogen storage capacity. Also, to ensure clear visibility for the operator, cameras and monitors have been installed both inside and outside the cab. The proof-of-concept tests will evaluate driving performance, continuous operating hours, fuel efficiency, and verifying safety measures related to high-pressure hydrogen gas usage.
Compared to batteries and hydrogen fuel cells, the use of hydrogen combustion engines in construction and mining equipment can offer lower costs because the power-train components of existing diesel-powered machines can be used without replacement. As well, with virtually zero CO2 emissions, some mining contractors have expressed interest in adopting hydrogen engines as one of the options to achieve carbon neutrality at their sites. While there are challenges such as safety management and infrastructure for hydrogen supply, Komatsu will work to address these issues in collaboration with industry associations and other related stakeholders.
Under its mid-term management plan, Komatsu has set the goal of reducing CO2 emissions by 50 percent from its products in use and in our production operations by 2030, with the challenging target of achieving carbon neutrality by 2050. To date, the company has introduced hydraulic excavators, tethered electric hydraulic excavators, and small and medium-sized battery-powered hydraulic excavators to the market.
In addition, Komatsu is working on various environmentally responsive technologies from all aspects, including the utilization of carbon-neutral fuels, the development of power supply systems for battery-equipped construction equipment, proof-of-concept tests for hydrogen fuel cell-powered excavator, and the development of a power-agnostic truck.
Komatsu remains committed to addressing diverse environmental needs through in-house technological development, open innovation, and strategic partnerships while aiming for the achievement of carbon neutrality.
