Large-capacity torque converters head list of features that make WA470-6, WA480-6 productive and efficient
Komatsu grew its mid-size lineup of Tier 3-compliant wheel loaders with the addition of the WA470-6 and WA480-6 models, which feature large-capacity torque converters that provide excellent tractive effore, improved acceleration and improved climbing ability in a wide range of applications.
“The WA470-6 and WA480-6 are excellent in material handling; charging asphalt or concrete plants that use ramps to feed hoppers; general construction; load-and-carry and agricultural applications,” said Rob Warden, Product Manager Wheel Loaders. “The large-capacity torque converters offer several benefits, including greater productivity in V-cycle loading applications; faster gear upshifting and ability to achieve higher gear ranges; and higher travel speed for load-and-carry or hopper feeding applications.”
Those advantages offer increased production, while the large-capacity torque converters and Komatsu Tier 3 engines provide optimal power and efficiency for lower per-ton costs. Users can maximize power and efficiency by selecting from two operating modes. E mode provides maximum fuel efficiency for general loading, while P mode allows for maximum power in hard digging and hill climbing. An eco indicator informs the operator when the machine is maximizing fuel efficiency.
“Our studies show that these loaders increase production, while decreasing V-cycle times and fuel usage compared to previous models, no matter which mode is used,” said Warden. “Those are major factors for choosing a WA470-6 or a WA480-6, but that’s not the entire picture. We have other features that work to increase productivity and lower owning and operating costs.”
Among them are spacious cabs designed to reduce operator fatigue and increase productivity. Wide, pillar-less, flat glass gives excellent visibility in all directions, and the viscous-mounted ROPS/FOPS structure offers low noise and vibration for better comfort. Air conditioning is located in the front of the cab so the operator has increased seat reclining and backward slide adjustment. The new Pressure Proportional Control (PPC) levers provide fingertip control for easy operation. the lever console can be adjusted, along with the large arm rest, to suit individual operator needs.
Easy operation, maintenance
Along with fingertip controls, operation is easier with the automatic transmission with Electronically Controlled Modulation Valve (ECMV). The automatic transmission selects the proper gear speed based on conditions such as travel and engine speed. The ECMV allows for smooth gear and direction changes. With the touch of a finger, the operator can controls a kick-down switch to automatically downshift from second to first when beginning a digging cycle. It automatically switches back to second in reverse. in addition, the kick-down switch activates the loader’s Power mode when it’s in first gear or Economy Mode. It keeps the transmission in third or fourth gear when autoshift is selected.
Efficient operation and engines help keep costs down, and Komatsu added to that by building the WA470-6 and WA480-6 loaders with integrated production systems to create reliable machines with low maintenance costs and easy service access. Each is equipped with Komatsu’s Equipment Management Monitoring System (EMMS), which allows the operator to track machine function on an easy-to-read monitor. The standard automatic, reversible, hydraulic radiator fan allows the operator to quickly clean out the cooling system, either at a preset interval or instantly with the flip of a switch.
KOMTRAX comes standard
Equipment owners can further track machine performance and maintenance schedules with KOMTRAX, standard on both loaders. KOMTRAX offers information such as daily fuel consumption, working hours, hour meter, location, cautions and maintenance alerts using wireless technology. Users can log onto a secure Web site to find all the information they need to stay informed.
“There are a whole host of reason for choosing a WA470-6 or a WA480-6,” observed Warden. “They’re efficient, productive and reliable in a wide range of applications, making them among the best value in their size class. Those who may have been using a WA450 or WA480 in the past, which the new models replace, will find that the new loaders will significantly outperform the previous models in terms of efficiency.”
To see video of the machines, log onto www.videocpi.com. For more information on the WA470-6 and WA480-6 loaders, contact your sales representative or our nearest branch location.
Good and big wheel loaders.
Comment by jack — February 9, 2010 @ 12:49 am