Komatsu is looking to reinforce its longwall system powered roof supports (PRS) with the multifunctional Joy Compak Next Gen hydraulic control system, helping, it says, improve the performance of customers’ PRS and facilitate the shearer cutting rate with exceptional cycle time performance.

Engineered to be durable and reliable in rugged environments, the Joy Compak system features corrosion-resistant materials on valve block assemblies, components and the main body. With a reduced number of components to lessen wear and tear, the spool valve in the system is engineered to handle higher flow rates, to help reduce the risk of part failure and promote extended life, Komatsu said. Providing flexibility to suit the individual needs of your operation, the Joy Compak Next Gen hydraulic system can be conveniently upgraded or retrofit to any PRS system (regardless of manufacturer).

The high-performance valve technology of the Compak hydraulic control system helps improve cycle times by up to 12%, compared with the previous model. Designed with operators in mind, this hydraulic system’s overall size is reduced by up to 27% and weight by up to 30%, the company says, making it easier to position, while improving accessibility. Hosing position has also been conveniently located for better access, it added.

The reliable hydraulic valve system helps control modern automated longwall powered roof supports from the Faceboss electronic control system using solenoid control or through manual control with the solenoid push button override function. Ergonomically positioned for ease of access, operators can control the main override function easily and effectively through an integrated push button within the solenoid, Komatsu says.

Seals play a crucial role in the functionality of the hydraulic spools that operate roof support functions, and Komatsu’s seal technology helps prevent leakage in your hydraulic spools, it says. A simplified, standardised hydraulic circuit design helps provide a reduction in the number of spool valves without impacting performance of the Compak hydraulic system. This design minimises fitting and connecting hoses, to help reduce potential leak points.

Komatsu says the system can easily expand (over 16 functions) to increase functional requirements to suit the operation’s needs. For example, a standard 10-spool valve can be expanded through separate two- and four-spool expansion modules.

To help reduce lead times for replacement parts and streamline maintenance, the hydraulic control system features a modular design incorporating a series of standard components. Easy to change cartridge-style construction makes replacement straightforward and manageable, with manifolds, valve assemblies, cartridge valves and fittings all standard as part of the system’s modular design. The modular approach also makes upgrades easy, the company added.