Komatsu introduce new WA900-8 wheel loader
New heavyweight loader said to offer highest productivity in class with greater fuel efficiency
DESIGNED for maximum operating comfort, the new WA900‐8 wheel loader offers many other customer advantages, including a modulation clutch and variable traction control, an auto kick-down and a rev/min set. Combined with Komatsu’s redesigned extra‐large 14.5 cubic metre bucket with its optimized maximum fill factor, the WA900‐8 is said to offer the highest productivity of any wheel loader in its class – and up to 17% more fuel efficiency.
The all‐new Komatsu WA900‐8 gives the operator a safe, stable and comfortable work environment. With its 116-tonne operating weight, the WA900‐8 has 23,200kg rated load capacity in a standard boom configuration and a 20,500kg rated load capacity in high-lift boom configuration.
‘Komatsu designed the WA900‐8 wheel loader with one major goal in mind,’ said Jo Monsieur, group manager for large machines at Komatsu Europe, ‘and that was to provide customers with an ultimate tool to let them safely and comfortably achieve lowest cost‐per‐tonne production.
‘Not only does this new machine include an efficient engine and offer the highest rated load, but its new and super-comfortable cabin is the largest ever on a Komatsu wheel loader.’
With environmental concerns growing worldwide, along with a need for cleaner engines, the WA900‐8 meets the latest EU Stage V emission regulations with its Komatsu‐designed, developed and manufactured engine and after-treatment systems, which comprise two diesel particulate filters, two variable-geometry turbos, a heavy-duty and cooled exhaust gas recirculation system, new engine control modules and a closed crankcase ventilation system. No AdBlue is required.
As standard, Komatsu offer up to 14.5 cubic metre buckets that have a redesigned spill guard, increased radius and floor angle, and provide better penetration and higher fill factors to boost productivity and income. Their ultra‐strong teeth and enlarged sweeper wings help increase uptime and reduce tyre damage.
A standard high-accuracy payload meter (PLM) monitors and tracks productivity and efficiency to within 1.5% accuracy, to avoid overloading dumptrucks.
The modulation clutch system gives operators precise control of rim pull, for fast work equipment speeds, and a smooth approach for truck loading, whilst the variable traction-control system optimizes rim pull on all ground conditions, minimizes tyre slippage and reduces maintenance costs.
On‐board Komatsu SmartLoader Logic, a fully automatic engine control, yields precisely enough torque for each work phase, based on the application. By automatically switching between Economy and Power modes, it considerably reduces fuel usage, with no loss of productivity.
The new-generation WA900‐8 wheel loader’s hydraulics are improved with a CLSS hydraulic system that delivers power on demand via the variable-displacement piston pumps. It keeps the hydraulic oil cool and increases both work speed and fuel economy. Fuel savings are further promoted through the Auto Idle Shutdown system and by ECO guidance tips on the in‐cab monitor.
A new supersized ROPS/FOPS cabin provides a completely redesigned, spacious, sturdy and safe operating environment, with a wide and unobstructed view of the work area. After dark, visibility and safe maintenance are improved by 22 LED lights.
For increased safety and operating confidence, KomVision, a visual aid designed by Komatsu to help avoid contacts or collisions due to blind spots, reduces risks of machine damage and injury. On the WA900‐8, five network cameras create a bird’s‐eye view of the immediate surroundings on a dedicated monitor. An extra rear‐view camera sends a colour image with a distance indicator line on the cabin monitor.
For easy and safe servicing, technicians can attach lanyards to anchored tie‐off points well placed around the WA900‐8. Standard safety lockout switches at the rear of the machine can be quickly reached from ground level in an emergency or a critical situation.
Engine maintenance points are grouped, and various ladders, stairs and handrails provide safe access to all filters. The optional service centre allows the wireless download of KOMTRAX Plus data, along with faster and easier oil servicing and sampling. Brake life has been increased with an improved fully sealed hydraulic brake system, and the front frame and the loader linkage have been redesigned for greater strength and durability.
A new, fully adjustable, air‐suspended, heated and ventilated seat with an adjustable bolster and integrated standard EPC levers, makes life on the job site easier, as do the colour TFT monitor and a range of new tools and functions. A new fold‐up trainer seat allows in‐cab operator training.
For less experienced operators, the Auto Digging system, the Semi‐Auto Approach and the Semi‐Auto Dump can assist to provide a consistent performance. The new right‐hand side console is integrated in the seat. Switches and Bluetooth radio are easily accessible on the overhead console, and the new front panel is styled with a similar look and feel as other Komatsu machines.
