Rolling Meadows, IL,September 22, 2006”Komatsu America Corp. today announces the addition of the WA450-6 and the WA480-6 to their fleet of Wheel Loaders. The WA450-6 has a net horsepower of 272 HP, an operating weight between 48,920 and 49,430 pounds and a dumping clearance of 10™3 when equipped with a 5.5 yd3 general purpose bucket. The WA480-6 has a net horsepower of 299 HP, an operating weight of 54,200 and 54,830 pounds and a dumping clearance of 10™6 when equipped with a 6.0 yd3 general purpose bucket.
The machines are equipped with the latest Komtrax technology which sends the machine operating information to a secure website utilizing wireless technology. Hour meter, location, cautions and maintenance alerts to name a few of its features are relayed to the web application for analysis. The Komtrax fleet monitoring system increases machine availability, reduces the risk of machine theft, allows for remote diagnosis by the distributor, and provides a wealth of other information to drive business efficiency and productivity.
Special features of the new wheel loaders include:
Increased fuel efficiency and maximum productivity
Both machines get their power and productivity from a Komatsu SAA6D125E-5 diesel engine with an Electronic Heavy Duty Common Rail fuel injection system providing fast throttle response while optimizing fuel combustion. The loader™s fuel consumption is greatly reduced because of the low-noise, high-torque engine and the large capacity torque converter with maximum efficiency in the low range, combined with CLSS (Closed-Center Load Sensing System). The engine is EPA Tier 3 emissions certified without sacrificing power or machine productivity.
With two selectable operating modes that are easily adjustable, the engine effortlessly adapts to different working conditions. The E mode provides maximum fuel efficiency for general loading and the P mode has a maximum power output for hard digging operation and hill climbing. For load and carry or hill-climb operations, the torque converter with optional lock-up transmission provides increased production efficiency, reduced cycle times and optimum fuel savings. An Eco Indicator informs the operator when the machine is maximizing fuel efficiency.
New large cab provides excellent operator environment
The loader is designed with a wide and spacious cab to reduce operator fatigue and making it safe and easy for operators to work a full day, increasing productivity. A wide pillar-less flat glass provides excellent front visibility, and the wiper arm covers a large area providing excellent visibility on rainy days. The cab™s low-noise design of 72 dB(A) creates a comfortable working environment. The new roomy cab is mounted with Komatsu™s unique viscous mounts to keep noise at a minimum and provide a low-vibration, clean operating environment and its built-in ROPS/FOPS structure protects the operator. The layout of the cab has also been improved for easy access to levers. The air conditioner has been relocated to the front of the cab to increase seat reclining and backward slide adjustment.
Easy Operation
New PPC control levers have been implemented so that the operator can easily operate the work equipment with fingertip controls, reducing fatigue and improving fine work equipment control and productivity. The work equipment lever console can be moved forward or backward and the large arm rest can be adjusted up or down to provide the operator with a variety of comfortable operating positions.
The automatic transmission with ECMV (Electronically Controlled Modulation Valve) makes operating functions easier and more efficient and ensures a more comfortable ride. It automatically selects the proper gear speed based on conditions such as travel and engine speed, and includes two switches that make operating the machine easier. With the touch of a finger, the kick-down switch automatically downshifts from second to first when beginning the digging cycle; in reverse, it automatically upshifts from first to second. The kick down switch also acts as a power up switch when the machine is already in first gear and economy mode. Conversely, the hold switch keeps the transmission fixed to either the third of fourth gear speed when auto shift is selected.
Easy maintenance for a reliable machine
To reduce costly downtime, both loaders were designed for easy service and maintenance access. Using strict quality control, Komatsu manufactures all machine parts with an integrated production system to create a reliable machine with very low maintenance costs.
The machines are equipped with the exclusive Komatsu EMMS (Equipment Management Monitoring System). The easy-to-read monitor keeps the operator informed of all machine functions, including fluid and filter change intervals and troubleshooting memory display functions. An automatic reversible automatic hydraulic radiator fan allows the operator to quickly clean out the cooling system at preset intervals or with the flip of a switch.
Komatsu America Corp. is a U.S. subsidiary of Komatsu Ltd. which is the world™s second largest manufacturer and supplier of construction, mining and compact construction equipment. Through its distributor network, Komatsu offers a state-of-the-art parts and service program to support the equipment. Komatsu has proudly been providing high-quality reliable products for nearly a century. Visit the website at www.komatsuamerica.com for more information.
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