Komatsu America Corp has announced the new WA480-8 Wheel Loader, which the company claims “hits the sweet spot” for multiple application versatility.
The new machine combines higher production with lower fuel costs, improved operator comfort and enhanced serviceability.
New operator-friendly design features include the optional advanced joystick steering system (AJSS), which eliminates the steering wheel, and with it, a major cause of operator fatigue.
Also, the new “generous curves” bucket design fills and retains material better, making the machine nearly eight per cent more productive than the previous model.
“The WA480-8 is the perfect tool for quarry, infrastructure and non-residential construction applications,” said Craig McGinnis, product marketing manager for Komatsu America Corp.
“It’s the perfect three-pass loader for on-highway trucks and hoppers.”
The wheel loader is powered by a 299 hp, 11.04 litre Tier 4 Final SAA6D125E-7 engine, which consumes up to 20 per cent less fuel than its Tier 3 predecessor. Komatsu Auto Idle Shutdown also helps to reduce idle time and save fuel.
As well, nearly 20 years of emissions technology development allowed Komatsu designers to create an engine that reduces Nitrogen Oxides (NOx) by more than 80 per cent compared to the Tier 3 model.
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The Komatsu Diesel Particulate Filter (KDPF) and other after treatment components are designed in conjunction with the engine for efficiency and long life. More than 95 per cent of KDPF regeneration is performed passively, with no action required from the operator and there is no interference with machine operation.
In-cab enhancements
An integrated load meter system displays data directly to the machine’s main monitor and remotely via Komtrax. As well, load sub-total and cancel functions are available via buttons integrated into the machine work levers. Load meter is only available on two-lever, two-valve machine configurations.
For operator comfort, an air-suspension, high-back, heated seat softens machine vibrations, while cast frame structure increases strength. Furthermore, the cab is equipped with seat-mounted electronic pilot control levers with F-N-R switch for operator ergonomics and convenience.
A separate, full colour, rearview monitor comes standard, as well as an auxiliary jack, two 12-volt ports and a 15 cm, full colour, high resolution monitor that is equipped with Ecology Guidance.
Auto dig
The new auto dig system controls bucket tilt and lifting by sensing pressure applied to the work equipment. The system, according to Komatsu, is able to reduce operator fatigue and optimize bucket load.
For maintenance, a new swing-out rear door and standard auto-reversing fan allow easy access to wider fin space radiator for ease of cleaning, and gull-wing engine doors provide quick, convenient access for daily checks and service items.
Sight gauge at DEF fill cap to minimize overfilling. The DEF fill cap has a convenient magnetized holster to hold cap while filling and a sight gauge fill cap helps to reduce overfilling.
The wheel loader is also equipped with additional hinged panels on each side of machine for easy access to regeneration components, while an optional engine pan and oil heaters available for easier starting in colder conditions.
