With surging demand for power and minerals, there is reasonable scope for construction equipment this year. The equipment manufacturer has already been upgrading its machines to better deal with tough site conditions. SK Jaruhar, Advisor – Support Services, Kobelco Construction Equipment India Pvt Ltd talks about features that minimise breakdowns, enhance fuel efficiency and durability thereby buoying productivity.

How do you see the demand for your products in mining this year?
Being the election year, there is likelihood of a drop in demand in the first quarter (Q1) and part of Q2. Thereafter, things should get streamlined, especially if the present government returns to power. Overall activity is expected to be good considering the demand for power as well as for major minerals like iron ore, bauxite, copper, etc.

What makes customers choose you?
Kobelco Excavators are already the preferred choice, primarily due to their high productivity and excellent site support through a growing network of dealer touchpoints. Latest Japanese technology with high reliability are highly beneficial for the customers. The company has been improving the durability of their machines not only in respect of structure, but also by introducing new features which allow them to minimise breakdowns. For example, the air, fuel and oil filtration systems have been upgraded to meet the tough site conditions.

Please share your latest offering in mining segment and how does it meet the demand of worksite.
Our initial foray into select mining applications was through our 35+ Ton Excavator, which made a real impact in the Granite and Marble mining segment. This was followed by the 50+ Ton model, the vSK500HDLC, which was well accepted in OB removal tasks especially in coal, iron ore and limestone mining. The latest version of this model, the SK520XDLC under the Gen-10 series, has enhanced capabilities and offers higher productivity, durability and reliability. We also offer a fully imported 80 Ton Excavator, the SK850LC, which is capable of improving the overall site productivity with better matching with the larger tippers.

How can machine productivity be enhanced?
Machine productivity is the result of features like engine fuel efficiency, operating efficiency of hydraulic system, boom and arm regeneration systems, machine durability and component reliability, Operator work environment with faster and precise controls. Higher machine productivity is achieved through innovative changes to minimise energy losses. Improved component reliability with longer service lives and structural durability increase machine working duration and output.

Suggest measures to make equipment more reliable and fuel-efficient for mines.
The features built into the machine design for increased productivity, as stated above, need to be sustained properly through timely scheduled and preventive maintenance services. A proficient operator and the use of genuine filters, lubes and spare parts can help achieve high levels of productivity throughout the economic life of the equipment.

Higher machine productivity is achieved through innovative changes to minimise energy losses.
SK Jaruhar, Advisor – Support Services, Kobelco Construction Equipment India Pvt Ltd