Komatsu’s three-pump hydraulics develop a better workflow

11.05.2020

Komatsu’s three-pump hydraulics are part of the explanation behind the high productivity offered by our harvesters. This is something that Martin Johansson at Xtreme Loggers of Dorotea, Västerbotten County, northern Sweden, can attest to.
“I produce more because I can use several functions at the same time without losing power,” says Martin, who operates a Komatsu 951.

The three-pump hydraulics, or 3PS as they are also known, mean that there are three different hydraulic circuits, one of which always acts as a transmission pump while the other two are automatically coordinated to power the machine’s hydraulic functions. In practice, this means that you can perform several tasks at the same time and maintain a significantly faster pace. Martin has been using 3PS for about four years and says that it plays a major role in his high productivity, although he also notes that you need to hone your technique to make the most of it. 

“I remember that 3PS increased production the very first month, but even today I’m still learning more. If, like me, you’re competitively inclined, you’ll always find small details to work on, and with that much capacity there’s always room for improvement.” 

What do you find so special about 3PS? 
“It’s the fact that you can use several functions at the same time. Such as crawling forwards while collaring and cutting a stem. Because you can do this, your production increases. It lets you develop a better workflow compared to having to remain stationary while cutting, for example.”  

Another advantage is lower fuel consumption. Have you noticed this? 
“Yes, certainly. Hourly fuel consumption isn’t reduced, but because you produce more timber each hour, fuel consumption per cubic metre of processed timber is lower.”  

When do you think 3PS performs best? 
“All the time, actually, because there’s never a lack of power. But if I have to give an example, then when you’re able to move forwards while working fast, then production really peaks,” Martin ends.