Equipment Focus: Wheel Loaders

Oct. 6, 2011

Fuel efficient and tough

Fuel efficient and tough

Case’s 921F wheel loader provides faster acceleration, quicker cycle times and higher travel speeds while delivering as much as 17% greater fuel efficiency. A new optional, five-speed transmission with a lock-up torque converter, open-differential axles and advanced system programming provides even more fuel savings. The 921F features a 242-hp, 6.7-liter Tier 4 interim-certified engine. With greater tipping load weight and bucket breakout force relative to its payload, the 921F meets the needs of aggregate stockpiling and high-production truck-loading applications.

Resetting the standard

Featuring new engines and driveline systems for improved productivity, lower emissions, greater smoothness, serviceability and operator comfort, the G-Series is the latest generation of wheel loaders from Volvo. These new models are fitted with a Tier 4i/Stage IIIB-certified engine that is married to drive train, hydraulics and lifting systems, offering higher productivity, improved fuel efficiency and stronger hydraulics. The G-Series also features a 20% increase in lifting force and 10% improvement in breakout force.

Plenty of horsepower

Komatsu’s WA 1200-6 wheel loader offers 1,765 net hp at 1,800 rpm. The use of an electronic governor results in low fuel consumption, with quick throttle response to match the powerful tractive effort and fast hydraulic response. The new dual-mode active working hydraulic system allows the operator to select between normal and powerful loading. The engine rpm control system with auto deceleration allows the operator to set the engine rpm at the optimum work performance level and control speed smoothly.

High bucket breakout force

Powered by a turbocharged 21-hp Doosan diesel engine, the Doosan DL300 wheel loader provides the low-end performance and strong torque rise required to dig and carry heavy loads. At the same time, an electronically controlled, high-pressure common-rail direct fuel-injection system helps keep emissions and fuel consumption low. The DL300 can take on a wide range of material-handling tasks. A robust Z-bar lifting system provides a standard bucket breakout force of 36,419 lb, among the highest in its size class.

Smart loader

The Kawasaki 92ZV-2 wheel loader offers a fuel-efficient Cummins QSM11, a certified Tier 3 emissions engine, providing 284 hp and a huge 47% torque rise. This loader has the power to dig as well as climb hills. The powerful hydraulics supply outstanding breakout force and lifting capacity. The Kawasaki MODM (machine operation diagnostic module) offers information to make the operation and maintenance of the wheel loader quick and efficient, providing details on operating systems, continually diagnosing the performance of the wheel loader and monitoring fluids and filters.

Tough on the job

The Terex TL310 wheel loader handles bucket capacities of 4-6 cu yd and boasts a bucket breakout force of 34,534 lb. The loader’s transverse-mounted design protects the engine from jobsite debris and damage, and the high-performance hydraulics include a load-sensing flow-distribution function. The TL310 offers versa steering mode (allowing easier operation in applications requiring multiple steering movements) and automatic self-locking differentials on both axles (enhancing traction in difficult ground conditions).

Hard working and stable

The Takeuchi TW80 wheel loader is a 12,600-lb machine with 80 hp and a top speed of 12.4 mph. It is engineered to be rugged, durable and powerful while providing mobility and stability. Center-pivot steering allows maximum maneuverability with 40° articulation left or right and 10° oscillation in the front and rear. A 100% inching pedal allows reduced travel speed while providing full power to the hydraulic system. Momentary push-button control of 100% front- and rear-axle differential lock provides additional traction in harsh terrain.

High-flow hydraulics

Wacker Neuson’s WL 37 is the only articulated wheel loader on the market to feature high-flow auxiliary hydraulics for enhanced attachment performance. The articulated WL 37 offers excellent maneuverability and handling in tight working conditions. The built-in articulated joint reacts to uneven ground and ensures that all four wheels remain on the ground at all times, providing stable operation. The 100% on-demand differential lock provides the operator with superior traction.

Optimal digging power

The Caterpillar 962K features an engine that provides peak net power of 221 hp at 1,900 rpm. The engines deliver high performance, long life, excellent fuel efficiency and low operating costs. Each loader features many improvements including a new operator station, optimized Z-bar linkage, Performance Series Buckets and high-efficiency drivetrain. The drivetrain has been optimized with the new engine to improve digging power, acceleration and performance. The 962K has new torque converters that have been matched with the engine power curve to save fuel while delivering power increases.

Heavy-duty hybrid

John Deere’s 944K wheel loader features a hybrid-electric drivetrain. The loader incorporates four modular, independent wheel drives with electronic traction control. Deere’s hybrid-electric drivetrain utilizes electric traction, meaning the engine drives a generator to create electricity used by electric motors to drive the wheels. This provides significantly increased fuel efficiency, reduced tire wear and increased durability and reliability through fewer moving parts. Inside the cab are easy-to-read gauges for vital machine functions and more room for the operator.

Versatility, traction

Equipped with state-of-the-art features, the Kubota R-Series wheel loaders offer better visibility, more power and outstanding productivity. The R420S wheel loader comes with Kubota’s 43-hp E-TVCS diesel engine, while the R520S model comes with 49 hp. Some features include an electric shuttle shift lever to allow on-the-go directional change.

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