Mid-Size Loader is Tier 3 Compliant

Engineering and Mining Journal, Apr 2006

Komatsu America's new WA600-6 is the first model in its loader line to be equipped with a Tier 3 compliant engine. The 118,385-lb unit is powered by a Komatsu SAA6D170E-5 six-cylinder engine, producing 502 hp at 1,800 rpm and featuring an electronic control system to optimize vehicle performance, a heavy-duty high pressure common rail fuel injection system, a new combustion system for reduced noise and fuel consumption, a cooled exhaust gas recirculation system and an air-to-air charge air-cooling system.

The WA600-6 provides a breakout force of 87,230 lb, a straight static tipping load of 80,645 lb and a 40° turn tipping load of 67,210 lb. For maximum bucket control during both single and simultaneous bucket movements and improved fuel consumption, the machine is equipped with variable displacement piston pumps and CLSS (Closed Load Sensing System). Its standard 8.4-yd^sup 3^ bucket is suited to loading 50- to 65-ton haul trucks.

With a 3-element, single stage, double-phase torque converter and a full-powershift, planetary type transmission, loader travel speeds have increased over the previous model, with a forward top-speed of 23 mph and a reverse top-speed of 23 mph. The WA600-6's modulated clutch system controls the tractive effort from 100% to 20% of the T/C converter output. It offers adjustable travel speed and traction control settings for multiple applications. The WA600-6 also is outfitted with a new fully hydraulic braking system, including a wet-disc parking brake. The brakes are completely sealed, keeping out contaminants and reducing wear and maintenance.

Komatsu says the WA600-6's hydraulic cycle times with a rated load in the bucket are exceptionally quick, taking only 9.3 seconds to raise a loaded bucket, 2.3 seconds to dump it, and 4.1 seconds to lower an empty bucket.

The improved operator's cab features AJSS (Automatic Joy Stick Steering) for easier and more accurate control, as well as an electronically controlled, five-mode heater and defroster, air conditioning and a suspension-type, reclining seat. Operator fatigue also is reduced with rubber and silicone viscous damping mounts that reduce cab vibration and noise levels.

www.komatsuamerica.com

Low-Height Hardrock Roofbolter

The model ADO-D/E Fletcher roof bolter developed by DBT Africa is engineered to operate in low hard rock applications where difficult terrain and extreme mining conditions requires a versatile and maneuverable machine. The low-profile, single head arm feed ADO-D/E is available with diesel or electric power, and is capable of tramming and bolting using either the diesel or electric power option, making it extremely versatile.

The bolter's drilling mechanism was developed specifically for low working height applications, and according to the manufacturer, the ADO-D/E has the lowest and shortest profile of any comparable drilling system. It can operate in working heights from 1.5 to 2.5 m. The unit features four-wheel drive, articulated steering, vertical articulation and an oscillating axle allowing it to negotiate difficult ground conditions. The high torque drill head is able to correctly tension the roof bolt to required loading by applying torque from 0 to 400 Nm.

Boom swing and extension capabilities allow several bolts to be installed from a single chassis position. The positioning and ATRS controls are located adjacent to the drilling controls so that the bolter can be quickly repositioned to commence installation of the next row of bolts. It also is equipped with an Automated Temporary Roof Support system which provides protection for the operator. This feature is combined with dual operator controls and structurally sound certified canopies to ensure increased levels of safety during operation.

www.dbt.de

High-Performance Synthetic Oil for Diesels

BP Lubricants USA has introduced Castrol Hypuron S, a high-performance synthetic diesel engine oil designed for heavy-duty engines. Blended with a precisely engineered partial synthetic base stock, the vendor claims Hypuron S allows fleets to extend service intervals while maximizing equipment life, thus reducing total cost per mile. In addition to providing exceptional dispersancy to manage the higher soot levels generated by EGR engines, Hypuron S offers robust detergency to neutralize higher acid levels, minimizes oil consumption, reduces piston deposit formation and increases oil film strength. Castrol Hypuron S meets industry specifications, including: API Service Categories - SAE 15W-40 (CI-4 Plus, CI-4, CH-4, CG-4, CF-4, SL); Caterpillar ECF-1; Cummins CES 20076, 20078; Detroit Diesel; Deutz; Komatsu; Volvo VDS-2 and VDS-3; and others.

www.castrol.com/us

Improved Shaft Collar

A shaft collar for securely mounting sprockets, gears, pulleys, lever arms, and related components, that permits easy repositioning, is offered by Stafford Manufacturing. Accu-Mount collars feature one solid, square and flat side, with four component mounting holes, along with a centering hub, and a second side that securely clamps to a shaft. Providing a square and rigid method for mounting, they are claimed to prevent slippage or wobble and can be easily repositioned on the shaft. The collars are available in 11 sizes from 0.5-in. to 2-in. inside diameter. They are machined from steel, have a smooth bore to protect expensive shafts, and can be supplied with or without a keyway. Their split design allows a wide variety of components to be rigidly mounted and positioned on a shaft.