Komatsu recently unveiled a P&H 2100BL electric rope shovel monument. The site will serve as a landmark at its Elko, Nevada, location. A symbol of engineering excellence and mining innovation, the shovel has been relocated from Milwaukee, Wisconsin, to serve as a monument to the legacy of P&H Mining Equipment and the company’s history of manufacturing in the U.S.
The history behind the P&H 2100BL
The P&H 2100BL, manufactured in 1979, has played a significant role in Komatsu’s mining operations for more than four decades. Now standing prominently in front of the Elko facility, the machine is as tall as a five-story building and weighs over one million pounds. Its visibility from the I-80 highway makes it a striking testament to the industry’s progress and the impact of Komatsu’s equipment in the mining sector.
Komatsu’s Elko service centre is a regional hub for mining and construction support. Since initiating development of the site, Komatsu has invested a total of $57 million to build and expand the facility in response to contractor needs. The service centre, which officially opened in 2019, is equipped to service haul trucks, hydraulic shovels, electric rope shovels, and other mining support equipment. In 2023, Komatsu further reinforced its presence in Elko with the addition of a 50,000-square-foot warehouse, enhancing parts availability for local mining and construction operations.
The arrival of the P&H 2100BL monument underscores Komatsu’s commitment to honouring its past while continuing to advance mining technology. The community is invited to visit and experience this historic machine up close, offering a unique opportunity for families and industry professionals alike to appreciate the evolution of mining equipment.
“The P&H 2100BL electric shovel is a remarkable piece of engineering. Its journey from Milwaukee to Elko marks a significant moment in our company’s history,” said Tom Suess, Komatsu’s vice president and general manager for U.S. Mining Distribution. “This machine will now be prominently displayed in front of our Elko facility, symbolizing the evolution of mining technology, the enduring legacy of P&H Mining Equipment, and Komatsu’s deep connection to and pride in being part of the Elko community. We are excited to share this iconic shovel with the community and celebrate its past and future contributions to the industry.”
