Komatsu Shows Off New 125-Ton WA800-8 Wheel Loader
Komatsu uncovered a new wheel loader at the CONEXPO-CON/AGG show last week in Las Vegas. The 254,700-pound (115,530-kilogram) WA800-8 is suitable for quarry, aggregate, and mining applications.
Digging & Loading
The new WA800-8’s bucket options range from 14.4 to 16 cubic yards (11 to 12.2 cubic meters) of capacity. Komatsu suggests the loader for use with 60- to 100-ton (54- to 91-metric-ton) haul trucks for maximum efficiency. The WA800-8 features new front and rear frame and loader linkages and a reinforced Z-bar loader linkage for a high breakout force. The manufacturer says that its chassis is the most durable in the history of the model.
The loader also features a trainer seat and employs various technologies to assist novice operators. “Leveraging the power of connected technology, the WA800-8’s automatic dig, semi-automatic approach, and semi-automatic dump systems can be used together or separately to automate the work phases when v-cycle loading haul trucks,” Komatsu says. “These systems were designed to help newer loader operators become productive more quickly as well as reduce fatigue for all operators.”
A Bird’s-Eye View
Komatsu redesigned the cab of the WA800-8 for operator comfort, with a heated and ventilated air-suspension seat and easier cab entry and egress than prior models, and there’s an optional powered staircase to boot. Komatsu improved visibility from the cab as well, and outfitted it with LED lighting inside and out.
A 7-inch high-resolution monitoring panel gives the driver key information. If the loader is equipped with the optional six-camera KomVision system, the cab will come with another display dedicated to that 360-degree view. KomVision includes radar obstacle detection with audible and visual safety alerts.
Traction & Uptime
Propelling the WA800-8 is an 854-horsepower, 12-cylinder, turbocharged diesel engine with direct injection. It’s Tier 4 Final-compliant and has a cooled exhaust gas recirculation system. An engine pre-lubrication system comes standard.
Komatsu has fitted the new loader with a modulation clutch system and a variable traction control system for maximum grip on the driving surface. Its Electronically Controlled Suspension System (ECSS) reduces material spillage as the WA800-8 travels. The manufacturer extended the overhaul intervals on the transmission and axles to reduce downtime and maintenance costs. Finally, there’s an optional cold-weather package that includes heaters for the hydraulic oil, transmission oil, engine oil, and coolant.
Source: Komatsu