Two important New Year newcomers from Komatsu distributor in Ireland, McHale Plant Sales will be the latest Dash-11 generation WA475-11 and WA485-11 wheel loaders, details of which have just been announced.

Already an established favourite amongst quarry owners, aggregates producers, and those working in a variety of applications that include timber, waste, grain, and fertiliser handling, both newcomers come on the market equipped with a variety of upgrades, with a major focus on fuel efficiency.

Biggest improvement in terms of fuel saving is a 29% reduction in the WA485-11c compared with its WA480-8 predecessor. Another double-digit reduction is the WA475-11’s 14% better figure compared to its Dash-10 predecessor.

Ahead of their arrival – supported by a dedicated demonstration programme – McHale Plant Sales' director, Denis McGrath said: "Replacing two highly-successful units proven in numerous Irish applications, both new models are characterised by better consumption and by an equally-important high torque in the low speed range.

"Equipped with Komatsu's own hydro-mechanical transmission, both machines are said to deliver a superior performance with power reserves and ease of operation in all transport and loading tasks,” McGrath said.

"Compared with its WA480-8 predecessor, the WA485-11 offers a significant upgrade in payload and bucket capacity. All components have been adapted to a permanent payload of 8,800kg, a level extendable to 9,300kg in an aggregates-handling variant which helps reduce the number of loading cycles required depending on the vehicle size.

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"A constant variable gear ratio ensures the engine stays in a highly efficient fuel zone, with variable speed control that makes it possible to adapt the machine’s maximum speed to the requirements of the job site. Adjustable variable traction control limits wheel spin in difficult ground conditions," McGrath added.

On the sustainability front, both models have EU Stage V compliant advanced emissions control. Features of note include Komatsu’s well-proven exhaust with diesel particulate filter and selective catalyst reduction that further reduces NOx emissions using AdBlue. With low-emission combustion, this means their diesel particulate filter needs replacement only every 8,000h – an interval that can be extended by using low-ash engine oil.

In the matter of lifting power, Komatsu notes that 'never before has it been easier for an operator to find the correct balance between traction and lifting power'.

Impressive lifting speed and class-leading machine stability help to increase productivity, especially in tight V-shaped loading applications. Contributing to this improvement is 'variable power control' which allows lifting speed to be controlled independently of the accelerator pedal. In addition, hydraulic response time and tipping or lifting speed can be adjusted to application requirements. In addition, the optimised Z-bar linkage offers up to 20% more lifting power and a higher tonnes/h production rate.

Conscious of the importance that Irish owners attach to 'operator comfort', McHale Plant Sales cites a number of changes that raise the bar in that respect. "One highlighted improvement is a new, spacious cab with generous all-round glazing, a heated rear window angled to prevent dirt from sticking, and an operator-friendly lower noise level.

"A lever console with new command control switch is adjustable on a five-way axis for each operator, while increased internal air pressure prevents dust particles from entering the cab. A rear-hinged door, angled steps, and large handrails facilitate easy and safe entry and exit," the company noted.

A new air-suspended seat dampens vibrations for a more comfortable driving experience, as do seat-mounted electronic control levers that improve operating comfort and reduce operator fatigue. Automatic bucket filling and other assistance functions help operators to maintain productivity even during long shifts.

Amongst many other advances found in both models are: a high-resolution machine measurements information system; data on AdBlue levels and fuel consumption; real time ECO control system that displays messages during operation and at switch-off; constant steering angle feedback; easier engine access for cleaning and maintenance; and a programmable engine-management system that automatically switches the engine off when idling or after running to cool down.

As on all Komatsu equipment, KOMTRAX telematics and Komatsu Care customer maintenance provisions provide fleet management and support, protect the machine from misuse, and ensuring maximum efficiency and uptime.