South Korea has made a significant breakthrough in the localization of "super mini excavators." On the 11th, HPTS (Hydraulics & Pneumatics), a leading company in hydraulic and pneumatic systems located in the D&D Special Zone, announced that it has successfully developed a "small coal mining equipment (mini excavator)." This development marks a turning point for South Korea, as it now has the potential to break its long-standing reliance on imported mini excavators from technologically advanced countries like Germany and Japan.
The project was supported by the Small and Medium Business Administration through conditional funding for new product development. HPTS collaborated with Ulsan University to conduct joint research and development, ensuring the technology was both innovative and practical.
Following the successful development, HPTS held an on-site demonstration of the mini excavator in Daede District last month. Over 20 officials from the Korean Coal Company attended the test. According to the company's representative, most of the equipment used in Chinese coal and mining companies is imported, often outdated, and requires extensive maintenance. After witnessing the live demonstration, the attendees expressed high satisfaction with the performance and design of the new excavator.
Traditional large machinery is not suitable for narrow underground tunnels, and conventional excavation methods are inefficient. The newly developed mini excavator, measuring 0.7 meters in width, 3.5 meters in length, and 1.5 meters in height, can rotate between 90° and 180°, with a traction force of 2,000 kg. Its performance was optimized through simulation testing of hydraulic and mechanical systems.
To ensure safety in hazardous environments, all components were treated with explosion-proof and anti-corrosion measures, making it suitable for use in coal mines where flammable gases and dust are common. Li Yongji, CEO of HPTS, explained that most domestic mines have narrow tunnels with a width of only 3 meters and a height of 2.4 meters. Additionally, the working conditions are harsh, with high levels of gas, dust, and difficult temperatures. With an average annual working depth of over 20 meters, human labor is often avoided, making mechanization essential for improving efficiency.
Li added proudly: "This excavator is designed with the driver’s comfort in mind. There is ample space for the operator, and the controls are simple enough for anyone to learn quickly."
Priced at approximately 100 million won, the mini excavator has already attracted interest from coal companies, with 15 units ordered shortly after its launch. HPTS aims to sell between 50 and 60 units in China this year.
Beyond mining, the excavator has found applications in construction, civil engineering, and agriculture, proving its versatility and potential for broader market adoption. This achievement highlights South Korea's growing capabilities in developing specialized machinery tailored to challenging environments.
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