NEW ENGINE technology prompted industrial and construction giant Komatsu to launch an unprecedented 25 new machines at the Hunter Valley, NSW this month.
Komatsu, executive general manager construction, Dean Gaedtke said the equipment was designed to comply with US Tier 4 emissions regulations.
Mr Gaedtke said the new excavators, loaders, trucks and graders generated a 90 per cent reduction in emissions compared to the previous generation.
Resulting in fuel consumption savings of between five and fifteen per cent
- Dean Gaedtke
“At the same time, Komatsu has introduced new electronic-control systems throughout the new machines,” he said.
“Ensuring engine power, hydraulic requirements and transmission output is optimised.
“Resulting in fuel consumption savings of between five pc and 15 pc, depending on models and applications.”
Mr Gaedtke said the new machines were compatible with the latest version of Komatsu’s proprietary telematic-based remote monitoring system, Komtrax.
Load up
Two new general purpose wheel loaders, were launched at the event.
The 143 kilowatt (192 horsepower) WA380-8 and the 203 kW (272 hp) WA470-8.
Komatsu Australia, national business manager quarries, Richard Feehely said both machines featured a dual power engine mode, allowing operators to maximise fuel efficiency in general work while being able to increase power for tough digging applications.
“Our SmartLoader logic system optimises engine torque for all applications to further cut fuel consumption,” he said.
”It functions automatically and doesn’t interfere with operation, saving fuel without decreasing production or performance.”
The next generation WA500-8 and WA600-8 production loaders, were also launched, rated at 264 kW (354 hp) and 395 kW (529 hp) respectively.
New grader
Komatsu have also upgraded the GD655-6 grader, which features a 134 to 165 kW (180 to 221 hp) rated engine, depending on gear and operating mode.
Komatsu, national business manager, Phil Atley said a feature of the grader was the unique transmission system.
“It provides the option of full powershift or our lock-up torque converter,” he said.
”Which delivers power for tough grading, or low-speed fine control.”
Mr Atley said this feature allowed high power for tough grading, or low-speed for fine control.
“Lock-up torque converter transmission with electronic control has been designed and manufactured specifically for Komatsu graders,” he said.
“Providing on-the-go, full power shifting as well as inching capability and automatic shifting in higher ranges.”
Mr Atley said machine durability was also enhanced through a reinforced blade circle and a change to the resin in the circle wear plate material.
The launch also included 15 new excavators, two hydrostatic-drive toolcarrier loaders and four new dump trucks.