Komatsu adds two new Dash 8 wheel loaders

Staff WriterFebruary 27, 2018, 3:52 pmFebruary 27, 2018

Komatsu Australia has revealed two new wheel loader models – the WA270-8 and WA320-8 – in its Dash-8 range.

Both loaders feature Komatsu’s fourth-generation hydrostatic drive transmission system, as well as its versatile parallel Z-bar (PZ) linkage system which combines high breakout forces with parallel lift throughout the lifting cycle.

The WA270-8 – replacing the WA250PZ-6 – is powered by a Komatsu SAA6D107E-3 engine rated at 111kW and offers bucket sizes from 1.9-2.7 cubic metres, while the WA320-8 – replacing the WA320PZ-6 – is powered by a Komatsu SAA6D107E-3 rated at 123 kW and has bucket capacities ranging from 2.3-3.2 cubic metres. Both engines are configured to Tier 4 Final emissions standards.

Komatsu Australia says it skipped the Tier 4 Interim-equipped Dash 7 range, opting to go straight from Dash 6 to 8 to ensure customers are getting the latest in emissions and fuel efficiency technology.

“These latest wheel loaders incorporate all the new technology developments introduced in both the Dash 7 and Dash 8 upgrades, including improved performance and safety, reduced fuel consumption, superior operator ergonomics and significantly enhanced maintainability,” Komatsu Australia national business manager Richard Feehely says.

The Dash 8 models both have increased straight and full-turn static tipping loads for improved productivity and safety. The WA270-8 has a full turn static tipping load of 8930kg (2.3 cubic metre capacity GP pin-on bucket) and the WA320-8 has a full turn STL of 9780kg (2.8 cubic metre capacity GP pin-on bucket).

“These higher performance capabilities, combined with fuel efficiency improvements of up to 13 per cent from our Tier 4 final engine technology, mean these new loaders deliver significantly lower costs per metre of material moved than their predecessors,” Feehely says.

The Dash 8 loaders have completely redesigned cabins aimed at improving visibility and comfort as well as reducing noise levels. The cab’s air-suspension seat gives support in rough conditions and also dampens machine vibrations.

“The seat, along with the steering wheel, is fully adjustable for optimum comfort and control,” Feehely adds.

“In-cab noise levels at the operator’s ear have also been reduced, down to 68dBA on both models,” a significant reduction on their predecessor.”