Vernon Hills, IL, May 9, 2006”Komatsu America Corp. today introduced its new WA380-6 wheel loader which delivers optimum fuel efficiency, operator comfort and reliability. Designed for sand and gravel, commercial and industrial applications, the WA380-6 employs the latest technological advancements which enable operators to work comfortably and productively in a variety of conditions.
The WA380-6 has a net horsepower of 191 HP and an operating weight between 38,760 and 39,260 pounds. All major components including the engine, torque converter, transmission, hydraulic units and electric parts are engineered and manufactured by Komatsu under a strict quality control system. The new wheel loader has a general purpose bucket capacity of 4.3 yd³ and a dumping clearance of 9™8 with the standard bucket.
The WA380-6 is also 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 loader include:
Increased fuel efficiency for optimal productivity
The new WA380-6 gets its exceptional work capacity from a Komatsu SAA6D107E engine with an Electronic Heavy Duty Common Rail fuel injection system that provides the optimum combustion of fuel. Without sacrificing power or machine productivity, the engine meets EPA Tier 3 emission regulations. The wheel loader™s fuel consumption is greatly reduced because of the low-noise, high-torque engine and the combined with CLSS (Closed-Center Load Sensing System).
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
With the largest cab area in its class, the WA380-6 was designed to make it safe and easy for operators to work a full day, increasing productivity. 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. In addition, the wide pillar-less flat glass provides excellent front visibility.
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. 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, the WA380-6 wheel loader was 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 WA380-6 is 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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