Komatsu Launches Largest Hydraulic Mining Excavator

Benrath, Germany - Komatsu Germany Mining Division., a mining excavators’ producer, has officially launched the PC9000-12 globally, marking the debut of the largest hydraulic mining excavator in Komatsu’s portfolio. After a successful introduction in Canada, the machine is now being offered worldwide through Komatsu’s dealer network.

The PC9000-12 represents the next step in Komatsu’s surface mining equipment range, built to deliver higher productivity, greater efficiency, and lower cost per ton for large-scale mining operations. Designed for extreme surface mining environments, the excavator is available in diesel Tier 4, diesel unregulated, and electric-drive configurations, giving mining companies flexibility based on site conditions and emissions requirements.

As the biggest model in Komatsu’s PC series, the PC9000-12 offers the largest bucket capacity, longest reach, and highest digging force in the lineup. It is available in both front shovel and backhoe versions, with a 46-cubic-meter front shovel bucket or a 49-cubic-meter backhoe bucket.

The machine is designed to load Komatsu mining trucks in the 240- to 400-short-ton class in just three to five passes. With a payload of over 80 tons per pass, the PC9000-12 can load a Komatsu 980E truck in five passes in less than 150 seconds. Under ideal operating conditions, this can support production rates of around 8,000 tons per hour.

Komatsu has also developed the PC9000-12 with future mine operations in mind. The excavator supports efficient double-sided loading and is compatible with Komatsu’s FrontRunner Autonomous Haulage System. Operator safety and comfort are also key features, with a spacious ergonomic cab and advanced monitoring systems designed to improve visibility, awareness, and reduce fatigue during long shifts.

Peter Buhles, Vice President Sales & Service, said the PC9000-12 sets a new standard for global surface mining operations, combining versatile shovel and backhoe options with diesel and electric drive choices to meet the needs of major mining sites worldwide.

The first PC9000-12 was delivered in May 2025 to an oil sands operation in Canada. SMS Equipment supported the launch in the Canadian market, working alongside Komatsu and the customer during commissioning and introduction.

With more than a century of mining technology expertise, Komatsu Germany Mining Division continues to strengthen its position in ultra-large hydraulic mining excavators for surface mining applications.

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