Komatsu has officially launched the first two machines in its Dash 7 wheel loader range, which has been designed to increase productivity while significantly reducing fuel use, emissions and ownership costs for Komatsu customers across a range of industries.
The first two models released in the range are the 24.36 tonne, 4.65-5 cu m bucket capacity WA470-7 and the 36.41 tonne, 5.6-7 cu m bucket capacity WA500-7 – both targeted at face loading and sales loader applications in quarry operations.
According to Richard Feehely, Komatsu Australia’s National Business Manager – Quarries, the Dash 7 range leverages Komatsu’s global technology leadership, while responding directly to the needs of operators and owners from the frontline of their businesses, by incorporating cutting edge mechanical and digital technologies and the highest levels of operator comfort.
Mr. Feehely said the Dash 7 range had been designed to improve customer productivity while lowering the cost of ownership.
“Reducing operating costs is front of mind for Australian quarrying, construction, materials handling and local government businesses, and the Dash 7’s technology and efficiency react to market needs for cleaner, greener machines with exceptional performance,” he said.
Producing more power and using less fuel, all Dash 7 Loaders are powered by Komatsu’s Tier 4 Interim Engines, with emissions certified to EPA Tier 4 Interim and EU Stage 3B.
“Komatsu’s new Tier 4i engines combine next generation high-pressure common rail fuel injection (HPCR), Komatsu’s variable geometry turbocharger (KVGT), cooled exhaust gas recirculation technology and the Komatsu diesel particulate filter (KDPF) to reduce fuel consumption and emissions while delivering exceptional performance,” said Mr. Feehely.
Komatsu’s latest SmartLoader Logic technology also plays a key role in cutting costs and maximising efficiency on the new loader range.
“This technology constantly evaluates information on load and working conditions from sensors throughout the driveline and work equipment, then continuously modifies engine torque to ensure that no excessive engine power is used – saving fuel without impacting on production,” he said.
Other fuel saving technologies incorporated in the new Dash 7 wheel loader range includes Komatsu auto idle shutdown, a dual mode engine power select system, variable displacement piston pumps and closed-centre load sensing hydraulics that prevent loss from wasted hydraulic oil.
At the same time, Komatsu’s Eco-Guidance system provides live fuel saving recommendations to operators via the main screen while logging information to assist fleet managers in identifying and managing operator efficiency.
“While increasing productivity, the new range of wheel loaders takes a multi-tiered approach to reduce fuel consumption. The new range will see customers extract more from their investment,” Mr. Feehely said.
A redesigned cabin and dashboard offers improved operator ergonomics and a comfortable environment, with a significant reduction in cabin noise intrusion. A rear view monitoring system and large multi-lingual LCD monitor ensure visibility and functionality from any seating position.
“The new interior is representative of Komatsu’s ‘as standard’ high level of spec, with drastically reduced noise at the operator’s ear,” Mr. Feehely said.
“Comfort and ease of access is key to operator effectiveness and the Dash 7 is the latest word on ensuring the people who use Komatsu machines are as happy as the people who own them.”
Maintenance is also made easier through the use of wide core coolers on all models, and a hydraulically driven cooling fan incorporating an automatic reverse function, to save the operator from carrying this out manually.
Swing-out rear fenders allow easy access to gullwing-type engine doors for daily checks and servicing.
Larger models in the Dash 7 loader range also incorporate an extended platform with full handrails, which have been added for safe access to engine pre-cleaners.
The Dash 7 range includes the latest version of Komatsu’s KOMTRAX remote monitoring system, giving increased owner piece of mind and assured lifecycle costs thanks to three-year/6000 hour premium warranty, three-year/2000 hour KOMplimentary scheduled maintenance and 24-hour parts support.