1980
More and more innovative technologies were applied to products with a heavy focus on hydraulic shovels. Using mechatronics for engine control was one of the examples of Japan's advanced electronics technology that surpassed the world standards.
Previous PC3 model had been well received in the market with its engine control system, "Electric OLSS", however, three years after the launch, the competition with other manufacturers was heating up more and more. It was time to redesign the model aiming for perfection in advancement.
With the newest control system, once you choose from four different modes; heavy excavation, excavation, correction, and fine operation, it automatically sets up the proper power mode.
PC200-5：Weight: 18900kg, Bucket capacity: 0.7m3
Around this time, using more specialized machinery based on the needs for each construction site and work became more common. Dismantling machinery and noise reduction machinery (photo) were developed based on PC200-5.
To celebrate the sales of 10,000 Avance series, Komatsu released special limited edition machinery, "Avance Limited".
Hydraulic excavator
Since its first emergence in 1951, it took only 50 years for the hydraulic shovel to establish its primary position on construction sites worldwide. Its size ranges from mini to super size depending on the scale of construction, and during the half century, it kept evolving by achieving a minimum rear-swing radius and adapting styles that would work with characteristics of each site. Mirroring the movement of a human hand, a hydraulic shovel will continue to evolve during the 21st century.
