Komatsu has just launched two new general-purpose wheel loaders, the 143 kW WA380-8 and the 203 kW WA470-8, which both feature Komatsu’s low-emission Tier 4 final engines, designed to deliver lower fuel consumption than their previous-generation equivalents.
The WA380-8 has an operating weight of 18.35-19 tonnes, depending on configuration, takes buckets ranging from 2.7-3.6 cu m and is powered by a Komatsu SAA6D107E-3 engine rated at 143 kW net. Fuel consumption is significantly lower than the WA380-6, the previous model in this size loader sold in Australia and New Zealand.
The 24.2-25.2 tonne WA470-8 has bucket capacities from 3.8-4.7 cu m, and is powered by a Komatsu SAA6D125E-7 rated at 203 kW net, with fuel consumption 6% improved over the WA470-7 that preceded it.
According to Richard Feehely, Komatsu Australia’s National Business Manager, Quarries, applications for the WA380-8 include everything from civil construction and local government, to sales loading, concrete batch work, log handling with appropriate attachments, waste and recycling, while the WA470-8 is designed for sales loading, logging, waste and mulch handling.
“The engines on both loaders incorporate Komatsu’s electronic control system performing high-speed processing of all signals from sensors installed in the vehicle, providing total control of equipment across all conditions of use,” he said.
A dual power engine mode on the two loaders lets operators select either Economy mode, giving maximum fuel efficiency in general loading works, or Power mode for maximum output in tough digging applications. Feehely said the two loaders also feature Komatsu SmartLoader Logic engine system, which controls engine torque to match machine demands.
“For example, engine torque needs are higher for digging in V-shape loading, but lower when driving with an empty bucket. Our SmartLoader Logic system optimises engine torque for all applications to further cut fuel consumption. It functions automatically and doesn’t interfere with operation, saving fuel without decreasing production or performance,” he said.
Other fuel-saving features include Komatsu’s closed-centre variable displacement pump technology for the hydraulics, delivering precise hydraulic flow when required, and an auto idle shutdown function. Engine condition information is displayed via an onboard network to the monitor inside the cab, providing all necessary operating data to the operator. This data is also accessed and managed via Komatsu’s advanced KOMTRAX telematics remote monitoring system, ensuring owners and fleet managers stay well on top of all maintenance requirements.
KOMTRAX monitors and transmits far more detailed data about engine conditions and operation, giving unmatched visibility into the health of equipment – and any potential issues. To further improve operating and fuel efficiency, Komatsu-designed powertrain systems on the two loaders are matched precisely to engine output, as well as incorporating additional productivity enhancements. These include a large capacity torque converter with an enhanced lockup and automatic gear shifting within a mode select system.
“Our large capacity torque converters give greater productivity and efficiency in tough conditions,” explained Feehely, “and our enhanced torque converter lockup helps further reduce fuel consumption in load-and-carry and some loading applications by directly transmitting more engine power to the drivetrain.”
The automatic transmission and its mode select system give the option of using manual shifting, or two levels of automatic shifting, depending on workload requirements. Operator comfort and ease of operation have also been improved on both new loaders, through features such as a new operator seat with new low-effort EPC (electronic pilot control) levers, low noise design – only 72 dBA at operator’s ear.
An optional mono lever configuration also incorporates proportional control of the third function via a rocker switch, giving the operator thumb control of attachment functions such as a 4-in-1 or high-dump bucket. Additional operator comfort and control enhancements include an electronically controlled suspension system, remote bucket and boom positioning, and automatic kick down to first gear when entering the pile.
“With these two new machines, Komatsu brings the latest advances in emissions reduction, fuel-saving, machine management, and productivity improvements to these very popular classes of loader,” stated Feehely.
“They can load and carry more metres of material or tonnes of payload at a lower cost, and with lower fuel burn – while giving owners and fleet managers unrivalled operational data across all applications – including advance warnings of upcoming service requirements as well as any potential machine or component issues.”
Brief specs of the two machines are:
WA380-8: Operating weight, 18.35-19 tonnes; engine, Komatsu SAA6D107E-3, rated at 143 kW; transmission, automatic full powershift with lockup torque converter; maximum speeds, F/R, 37.5/37.5 km/h; bucket capacity range, 2.7-3.6 cu m; static tipping load (GP bucket, bolt on cutting edge) at 40° full turn, 13,440 kg; bucket breakout, 16,100 kgf; dump clearance, 4095 mm.
WA470-8: Operating weight, 24.4-25.2 tonnes; engine, Komatsu SAA6D125E-7, rated at 203 kW; transmission, automatic full powershift with lockup torque converter; maximum speeds, F/R, 38.3/39 km/h; bucket capacity range,, 3.8-4.7 cu m; static tipping load (GP bucket, bolt on cutting edge) at 40° full turn, 17,460 kg; bucket breakout, 19,600 kgf; dump clearance, 4360 mm.
More information on these two new products can be accessed here.