Komatsu has released two new

s, the 28-tonne capacity HM300-5 and 40-tonne capacity HM400-5, both powered by low-emission Tier 4 Final engines and featuring Komatsu’s advanced truck transmission system.

The 28 tonne capacity HM300-5 is powered by Komatsu’s SAA6D125E-7 engine rated at 242 kW net, while the 40 tonne HM400-5 is powered by the SAA6D140E-7 rated at 348 kW net.

Both engines are US EPA Tier 4 Final emissions certified, cutting both nitrous oxide (NOx) and particulate matter (PM) emissions by 90% compared with their Tier 3 equivalents, while delivering up to 14% lower fuel consumption compared with previous models.

These engines incorporate an advanced electronic control system that performs high-speed processing of all signals from sensors installed in the vehicle, providing total control of equipment in all conditions of use.

Engine condition information is displayed via an on-board network to the monitor inside the cab, providing all necessary operating data to the operator.

Additionally, this data can be accessed and managed via the KOMTRAX telematics remote monitoring system (supplied as standard on all Komatsu construction and utility machines), ensuring owners and fleet managers stay well on top of all maintenance requirements.

According to Richard Feehely, Komatsu Australia’s National Business Manager, Quarries, Komatsu’s new Tier 4 engines monitor and transmit far more detailed data about engine conditions and operation, giving unmatched visibility into the health of equipment – and any potential issues.

“And through our in-house development and production of engines, electronics, and hydraulic components all designed to work with each other, Komatsu has achieved major advances in technology, providing high levels of performance and efficiency across all applications,” he said.

“Because of this integrated design approach, we have been able to achieve further reductions in fuel consumption with these new trucks,” Richard said.

“These include the use of variable displacement piston pumps that use engine power only as needed to eliminate unnecessary PTO inefficiencies, along with design improvements to the drive axles and transmission systems that reduce parasitic driveline losses.”

Both new trucks feature Komatsu’s advanced truck transmission system, including its electronically controlled K-ATOMICS countershaft transmission which is also used on large mining trucks, and the Komatsu Traction Control System (KTCS).

“Both these features are unique to Komatsu articulated dump trucks and, combined with our hydraulically controlled wet multiple-disc brakes and retarder system, provide unrivalled traction, braking power and safety in all types of operation,” Richard said.

K-ATOMICS incorporates an electronic clutch modulation system that ensures proper clutch pressure when the clutch is engaged.

“This total control system controls both the engine and the transmission by monitoring the vehicle conditions, ensuring smooth shifts with minimal shock and thus maximises powertrain life,” he said.

“KTCS, which we have derived from our extensive experience in traction control systems in dozers and rigid dump trucks, was developed by Komatsu to ensure maximum machine performance in soft and slippery ground conditions.

“This system, which is automatically activated and deactivated, monitors wheel speeds on the front and middle axles, and if it detects wheel slip, will automatically engage the inter-axle lock to improve machine performance.

“If the machine continues to detect wheel slip, it will brake the wheel that slip was detected on, continually monitoring wheel speeds and engaging the brakes as necessary,” he said.

Both trucks also incorporate Komatsu’s exclusive hydraulic braking and retarder system, which ensures complete control even when doing downhill fully loaded.

“Large-capacity, continuously cooled, wet-multiple disc brakes, which have been proven on other Komatsu rigid dump trucks, also function as a highly responsive retarder, giving the operator full control when travelling downhill,” said Richard.

Retarder absorbing capacity (continuous descent) is 392 kW on the HM300-5 and 510 kW on the HM500-5.

They also both come as standard with a payload meter (PLM), which displays payload tonnage as the truck is loaded. This information is visible to the operator, and is also transmitted to owners and fleet management via KOMTRAX.

Both trucks feature large ergonomically designed ROPS/FOPS cabs with air suspension seats and hydro-pneumatic front axle suspension, while the centrally located operator seat and short-bonnet design ensures excellent visibility of the working area. A rear-view camera and in-cab monitor are also provided as standard.

Maintenance requirements have been made easier on the two trucks through features such as ground-level fuel filter access, power-tiltable cab, reversible engine cooling fan, battery disconnect switch and an electric fuel priming pump.

“Since we introduced our HM400-3M0 in Australia in 2014, it has proven itself as a highly productive, efficient and safe articulated hauler across a wide range of applications,” said Richard.

“Now with our launch of these latest low-emission versions of the HM300-5 and HM400-5 trucks, customers can take advantage of the benefits of the latest Komatsu technology for their haulage operations.”

Brief specs of the two trucks are as follows:

HM300-5:Payload capacity, 28 tonnes; body capacity, 17.1 cu m; engine, Komatsu SAA6D140E-7 engine EPA Tier 4 Final emissions certified, rated at 242 kW net at 2000 rpm; transmission, automatic countershaft with lockup torque converter, 6F/2R speeds; maximum speed, 58.6 km/h; tyres, 23.5 R25; loading height, 2830 mm; width, 2900 mm; overall length, 10,275 mm.

HM400-5:Payload capacity, 40 tonnes; body capacity, 24 cu m; engine, Komatsu SAA6D125E-7 engine EPA Tier 4 Final emissions certified, rated at 348 kW net at 2000 rpm; transmission, automatic countershaft with lockup torque converter, 6F/2R speeds; maximum speed, 55.9 km/h; tyres, 29.5 R25; loading height, 3164  mm; width, 3450 mm; overall length, 11,105 mm.

Since deciding to go it alone in late 2017 after building more than 15 years of experience in the earthmoving industry, Anthony has no regrets. “I started out as a survey assistant when I left school, then I moved up to be a pipe layer with a well-known construction company for 4 years. Since then I’ve worked for other companies around the area, doing mine contracting work and all different forms of earthmoving. I have long history in the industry,” says Reid.

Running his own earthmoving operation has long been Anthony’s dream. “It’s something I always wanted to do as a young bloke – run my own business with more flexible hours. More time with the wife and son, more income opportunities, more diversity, and overall more life benefits.”

The friendly and instantly-likeable Anthony has a natural way with his customers and colleagues – an important ingredient in the recipe for sole trader success. “I take pride in my work and always aim to deliver a good product to my customer, that’s most important to me” says Reid.

Anthony’s natural ability as a businessman is reflected in his instant success as a one-man-band. “AJR Earthmoving has only been up and running since Christmas and I’m already busy working on great projects. It all happened pretty quickly, within a month or two.”

A second major factor in Anthony’s success is his choice of track loader – an . “I’ve got the (ASV Posi-Track) RT-75, with a big 4-in-1 tool bucket. It’s well-balanced, manoeuvrable, powerful, comfortable. Really good all-round machine. Definitely the best track loader I’ve used, that’s why I bought it,” says Anthony.

“I’ve got the bucket, plus pallet forks, crane lifting attachment, mine specs and down the track I’ll look at a slasher, broom, other lifters. It gives great versatility and the ability to do a lot of jobs.”

“I went the RT-75, the bigger machine, for its lifting capacity, torque, horsepower, big bucket capacity to save running back and forth to a stock pile all day, and the better undercarriage for comfort and floatation. More creature comforts in the bigger Posi-Track, and a lot more bang for buck in this machine. Plus the awesome air conditioning – should have gone for that years ago!”

“Buying the machine itself was straightforward. I had a look at other big brands, but easily decided on the ASV due to the quality and the service behind it. I’d spoken to a lot of contractors around the area who were all happy with the way ASV Sales & Service looked after them, during the sale and afterwards. For a small one-man operation like myself, service can make or break me. But also the machine as well; it’s chalk and cheese against the others. Ride quality, power, stability – no comparison,” says Anthony.

So what does the future hold for Anthony and AJR Earthmoving, given his instant success thus far? “Possibly down the track, depending on how business goes, maybe a small excavator. Smaller work; water mains, shallow jobs, backyard landscaping, general excavation – just opens up a few more opportunities.”

“I grew up in the area and I don’t see a shortage of work any time soon. We’re only going to keep expanding outwards in the Hunter. I really enjoy what I’m able to work on and offer to the local area as a single operation with great flexibility for the customer, so I’m happy to continue along my current path. Maybe one day I’ll get a second machine for my young fella to come and help me out on a few jobs!”

When Rebecca and Matt Price were looking for the new mini excavator that would kick them off on their new dry-hire business venture, MRP Hire, they expected their chief considerations to be price and quality. But as well as purchasing a quality machine, it was the exceptional level of customer care they received that influenced their decision to buy a new mini Kobelco excavator.

Rebecca and Matt had been building their own house in the New South Wales Hunter Valley but were disappointed to find that the mini excavators they had been hiring to do levelling and retaining wall jobs weren’t reliable and weren’t performing to capacity. Moreover, as there was such huge demand for machines in the area, they were hard to get on site in the first instance. So, wandering around the 2017 Tocal Field Days, Rebecca was excited.

“We were starting something together, and we had an idea of how much we were willing to spend and the size of excavator we were looking for, but we weren’t really sure what we could expect to get for our money in terms of quality. So, we went to the field days to get a hands-on idea of what was out there,” Rebecca says.

Venturing over to the Gato Sales site, Rebecca says she was immediately impressed with the level of attention and care she and Matt received while perusing Gato’s Kobelco excavators on display. They were interested in Kobelco’s SK17SR mini excavator.

“We went to several sites at the field day, and we looked at heaps of machines, just like everyone else there that day. The other vendors, for the most part, weren’t that interested in us. The difference when we got to the Gato site was amazing – we were met and treated well from the get-go,” Rebecca says.

Chad Vadnjal is the owner of Gato Sales & Repairs, based in Newcastle, and the Kobelco dealer for the Hunter Valley, Central Coast and Mid-North Coast of NSW, and assisted the Prices in understanding the different options available on the market.

“Kobelco machines are that distinctive teal blue, so we had noticed them around, but we hadn’t really investigated them seriously before we met Chad and the Gato team,” Rebecca says.

After the field days, Rebecca and Matt had some quotes and follow ups come through from different dealers for different machines, but Rebecca says that in making her decision with Matt, quality service and quality product prevailed.

“Matt looked at the technical elements of all the machines and he was happy with the Kobelco excavator. He was happy that it would perform well for us and I was happy that Matt would get the after-sales support we might need from Chad, Marty Cook and the entire Gato team while getting our business established. These ended up being the biggest factors in purchasing our first mini excavator.”

Rebecca says their business is now going so well, that Matt is now preparing to transition from his current employment as an operator on a mine site to working in their new business full-time.

“The Kobelco is so easy to use and operate, and we’ve had a really great response from people hiring it, so we are looking, in the near future, to add some more to our fleet.”

Australian Kobelco dealers are currently offering no deposit and 1.99% finance on a new Kobelco 1.7 tonne SK17SR over 36 months for purchases made from 1 June 2018 to 31 August 2018. Terms and conditions and lending criteria apply. For the full details visit www.kobelco.com.auor call your local authorised Kobelco dealer today on 1300 562 352.

Bobcat Company has enhanced its industry-leading compact excavators with the all-new, next generation R-Series excavators. Featuring a bold, distinct design, R-Series excavators will help boost operator productivity and comfort, as well as machine uptime protection.

The first R-Series excavators to land in spring will include the Bobcat® E32 and E35 in the popular 3- to 4-ton size class.

Bobcat Company has more than three decades of experience manufacturing excavators and incorporated customer feedback in the latest generation to make the excavators even better than the prior M-Series. Bobcat excavators are used in a variety of market segments, including construction, landscaping, utilities, infrastructure, rental and agriculture, to complete tasks where larger equipment can’t fit, or work that was previously done by hand.

Increased over-the-side stability

R-Series excavator operators can dig with greater confidence over the side of the machine with a standard dual-flange track roller system. The new dual-flange rollers extend the excavator’s undercarriage structure closer to the track’s edge and provide up to a 15 per cent increase in over-the-side capacity and more stability. This improves over-the-side digging performance and slewing ability to help boost productivity.

Simple serviceability

A new, integrated rear counterweight design lowers the excavator’s centre of gravity to further enhance machine stability. The design maintains wide-open access to the engine for daily maintenance checks.

High-quality finish

The new R-Series excavators feature strengthened hinges and latches, and rigid, aligned excavator panels to reduce vibration in the cab, especially when working on rough surfaces.

Unbeatable operator experience

Offering one of the largest cab openings in the industry, Bobcat has redesigned its R-Series excavator cab for an unbeatable operator experience. The tall, wide widows have 15 per cent more surface area, which includes an improved top window and narrower side pillars for visibility that’s never been better. Operators can get a better view of the excavator’s workgroup and surrounding areas with expanded visibility from the cab. A new sun visor over the top window shields operator’s eyes from the sun on bright days.

There is 29 per cent more floor space in R-Series compact excavators for the operator’s feet and legs than previous models, and redesigned floor pedals conveniently fold away. The seat and cab are also wider, allowing for plenty of elbow room all day long. Operators will appreciate the new automatic heat and air conditioning systems for complete control over the cab climate.

The R-Series excavator cabs also have a variety of other comfort and performance enhancements:

• Tread step for firmer footing when getting in or out of the cab

• Removable floor mats for easy cab cleaning

• Internal storage compartments to store gloves and other personal items

• High-quality joystick material for easy, comfortable grips

• Polycarbon window for a clear overhead view of the jobsite

• Level 1 FOPS canopy if operators prefer an open machine with a tough frame

For more information on the Bobcat excavator range contact Clark Equipment on 1300 736 848 or visit: www.clarkequipment.com.

National forklift market leader Toyota Material Handling Australia (TMHA) was a major presence at this month’s Megatrans exhibition in Melbourne, with a display demonstrating the Toyota BT Optio “Autopilot” driverless forklift.

The TMHA display at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre covered two, 72 square-metre stands and doubled as a flagship event for the company’s 50 Year anniversary celebrations.

Toyota sold its first forklift in Australia in 1968 and has now enjoyed nine uninterrupted years of national forklift market leadership.

Highlight of the TMHA display at Megatrans was the working display of a Toyota BT Optio OAE 120CB AGV Autopilot order picker.

In addition, the display featured engine powered and battery electric Toyota forklifts, along with a range of TMHA warehouse equipment.

TMHA is also showed a Bravi Sprint lift platform and a range of pallet racking.

TMHA president and CEO Steve Takacs said the company presence at Megatrans was another opportunity to celebrate both the 50th anniversary and Toyota’s on-going commitment to supporting the Australian market.

“The Toyota Autopilot AGV represents the cutting edge in material handling equipment,” he said.

“The overall display highlighted TMHA’s one-stop solution credentials, with our comprehensive range of market leading forklifts, reach trucks, stackers and order pickers.

“Added to that we showed Bravi work platforms, and our extensive range of racking.”

For more information freecall 1800 425 438 or visit www.toyotamaterialhandling.com.au

Jason Hodges from Channel Seven ‘Better Homes & Gardens’ will be at the National Diesel Dirt & Turf Expo at Panthers Penrith next weekend.

Open from Friday, April 13 through to Sunday, April 15, it’s the third year for this free-entry, huge display of earthmoving machinery that attracts more than 40,000 visitors.

You will find Jason on Toro’s stand 88 on Friday 13^th, from 10.00 am until 12.30 pm and on the Semco stand 68-69 from 1.00 pm until 3.00 pm. On Saturday 14^th he will be on the Toro stand 88 between 10.00 am and 12.00 pm.

If you have admired Jason’s clever approaches to landscaping, here’s your chance to have a chat and say hi.  Jason will be signing free merchandise and would love to meet you.

Jason owns and uses many different types of Toro equipment to help him get the job done quickly and efficiently. Here’s your chance to ask him how! You may have even attempted some of Jason’s great projects for your home and would like to let him know how your project went.

There are free show bags and you can check out the great variety of food, drinks, snacks and the comfortable licensed bar. There’s something for all the family from police highway cars, mining excitement at Rocky River Mining, Little Big Rigs and 12 amazing shows daily from the Freestyle Kings motorbike stunt team.

Win great prizes like a ride-on mower, motorbike, tool box, generator and fuel vouchers.

Check the website of this free event at www.dieseldirtandturf.com.au website or visit us on Facebook.

The curved corners on their B Series Skid Steers provide a wider, less obstructed view of the worksite and a solid “corner to corner” view of the bucket, blade, fork or other attachment being used. Intelligent use of complex shapes adds another important benefit – reduced noise levels inside the cab. By using curves to increase the stiffness of the cab, surface transmission of sound energy is significantly reduced. This is another way LiuGong is engineering customer value into every machine they build from the very start of the design process.

Better manoeuverability and performance.

Precision operation of a skid steer starts with better weight distribution. The new B Series Skid Steers gets it right with better balance, stability and lift control. The narrow stance and panoramic view combine for superior handling and control in tight quarters between buildings, walls and inside trailers. The machines lift to a dump clearance height of up to 2425mm and with a lift speed of 4.1 seconds, dump at 2.4 seconds and float down of 2.2 seconds, they are quick all around.

Tougher structural components.

All LiuGong machines are designed, built and tested for extreme-duty applications. The B Series Skid Steers are no exception. The new integrated frame provides a solid, rigid foundation for long, hard and productive days. The beefy, box section loader arms match the strength and durability of the frame, make the B Series Skid Steers long lasting and reliable machines for all applications – from high-cycle construction and mining applications to farms, nurseries and ports. The B Series Skid Steers don’t just look better – they last longer. Many thousands of hours of real-world testing were spent on the development of the new skid-steer, and the result is machines that not only please our customers, but machines that also live up to the strict quality standards that LiuGong mandates.

It’s all under control.

The machines features double-lever pilot control for sure, simple, effortless operation. The hydrostatic transmission system provides infinite speed control so operators can inch through critical areas with no extra space, but still travel quickly over large areas. Spring applied, hydraulic release brakes allow the operator to position the machine exactly where needed, and hold it there for pin point accuracy on precision jobs. They also have hydraulic self-levelling, especially useful for pallet fork applications. The universal LiuGong quick-coupling system makes for fast, easy changes with the complete line of LiuGong attachments, plus the B Series can pick up existing industry standard attachments, from any suppliers that the customer may already own.

Spacious, productive operator station.

These machines start with the operator – and stay there. The cabins are extra-large and uncluttered – with plenty of leg, elbow and headroom. Controls are intuitive and ergonomically placed for simple, effortless, fingertip control. The large, curved windows and well-placed mirrors eliminate much of the operator twisting and turning you find with other machines. The B Series Skid Steers features a full suspension seat that is fully adjustable. The ROPS & FOPS certified structural cabin design greatly reduces both vibration and sound levels – for better operator comfort and superior communication between operator and other personnel around the worksite.

Easy Access for Efficient Maintenance

The large, swing-open tailgate provides exceptional access for routine maintenance points in all B Series Skid Steers. There are no radiators to move, lift arms to raise or lift-arm support devices to install.

Plenty of options.

The B Series Skid Steers comes standard with a range of options to help customers meet their job requirements and performance needs. The list includes high-flow hydraulics, heater and air conditioning, enclosed ROPS/FOPS Cab, solid tires and tire chains, plus many more.

385B Skid Steer_Deep Etched

At LiuGong, it isn’t about just developing the latest technologies. It’s about developing the latest technologies that work – consistently, reliably, day in and day out, at the toughest, most extreme jobsites in from Agriculture to construction and mining. LiuGong is totally dedicated to reliability – from engineering to testing to manufacturing. The ultimate test is always the real world where real jobs have to get done. LiuGong. Tough World. Tough Equipment. For more information or too book in a demo, call AWD Group on 1300 888 479.

Detailed Earthworks…love it or hate it…are part of most civil projects nowadays. Tight car parks with complicated drainage, domed sporting fields, light rail, foot paths/cycleways, to name a few, are possibly the sections of the job you aren’t looking forward to. These tasks have previously been painstakingly slow and expensive. Many earthmovers are changing the way they view these jobs and taking advantage of 3D technology, which is not inexpensive, but a no-brainer if they want to be efficient and competitive. This 3D guided equipment has now been made within the reach of even ‎modest sized civil contractors with the availability of 3D Ready Level-Best Precision Grading Attachments for Skidsteers and CTL loaders. Level-Best now offers a very comprehensive range of machine control ready options for Trimble, Topcon and Leica systems enabling the GPS or Total Station machine control to be virtually plug and play on any brand of loader. Installations are as seamless as they are quick with minimal down time of the loader. Most installs together with operator training can be done in a single day. This combines with the fact that hundreds of these sets ups are currently operating here and in the USA, which should eliminate the fear of the unknown and provide confidence to the contractor who hasn’t jumped the 3D hurdle as yet. Let’s face it, the thought of embarking into 3D equipment can be a bit overwhelming. Prospective clients often get conflicting stories and advice from different suppliers. The guys from Level-Best are experts in the field of 3D for all brands of CTL loaders with Level Best attachments. This will reassure contractors that their new equipment purchase will operate correctly and efficiently from the outset. For more information call 1800 60 88 50 or visit atomlasers.com.au

Komatsu Australia has released two new WA270-8– the WA270-8 and WA320-8 – both powered with Tier 4-compliant low emission engine technology, and delivering improved fuel efficiency, higher productivity, and reduced owning and operating costs.

The WA270-8 – replacing the WA250PZ-6 – is powered by a Komatsu SAA6D107E-3 engine rated at 111 kW and offers bucket sizes from 1.9-2.7 cu m, 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 cu m.

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.

In releasing the Dash 8 versions of these two loaders, Komatsu Australia has gone straight from their Dash 6 variants, skipping the Dash 7 upgrades which included interim Tier 4-compliant engines, said Richard Feehely, Komatsu Australia’s National Business Manager – Quarries.

“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,” he said.

Both loaders 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 8930 kg (2.3 cu m capacity GP pin-on bucket) and the WA320-8 has a full turn STL of 9780 kg (2.8 cu m capacity GP pin-on bucket).

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

Both are powered by Komatsu’s EPA Tier 4 Final compliant SAA6D107E-3 engine, rated at 111 kW on the WA270-8 and 123 kW on the WA320-8.

These engines incorporate a hydraulically actuated variable geometry turbocharger (VGT) to provide optimum air flow under all speed and load conditions, along with Komatsu Diesel Particulate Filter (KDPF) and Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR) systems to reduce particulate matter and NOx while providing automatic regeneration.

According to Feehely, auto-reversing fans as standard, along with wider core coolers, provide ample cooling capacity, able to cope with ambient conditions that are both hot and contain high amounts of airborne debris.

“Komatsu on both machines automatically controls engine torque to match machine demands, optimising torque for all applications to minimise fuel consumption – without decreasing production.

“Reduced fuel consumption is further aided through six guidance messages and an enhanced ‘ecology’ gauge in the cabin display to encourage operators to work as fuel efficiently as possible,” he said.

Komatsu’s fourth generation hydrostatic transmission (HST) provides quick travel response and aggressive drive into the pile.

“Full auto-shifting eliminates any gear shifting and kick-down operation, to allow the operator to concentrate on digging and loading.

“The HST also acts as a dynamic brake, dramatically extending the life of the loaders’ wet disc brakes,” said Feehely.

A variable traction control system is designed to adjust traction control for each working condition.

“S-mode” reduces tire spin in slippery conditions; “auto-mode” automatically optimises tractive effort for various working conditions, while “max traction” mode provides full 100% tractive effort.

Feehely said completely new cab designs on the Dash 8 loaders provided operators with improved comfort and visibility, along with reduced noise levels – further assisting in increased productivity.

A new design air-suspension operator seat gives enhanced support in rough conditions, as well as dampening machine vibrations.

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

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

“Machine maintainability has also been greatly improved through such features as side-opening gullwing style engine doors, swing-out type cooling fan and wide-core radiator, and placement of daily and weekly maintenance items for easy-to-reach ground-level access.

“Komatsu Dash 8 loader owners also have the benefits of our advanced ICT (information and communications technology), including enhanced and intuitive on-board diagnostics systems and our latest KOMTRAX remote monitoring capabilities,” said Feehely.

“In addition, each new machine is covered by Komatsu Australia’s Komplimentary Servicing offering, covering two years/2000 operating hours and including one complimentary scheduled diesel particulate filter exchange.

“This not only gives owners the peace of mind in knowing just what their hourly operating costs will be for the first two years of the machines’ life, but also further pushes down hourly owning and operating costs.

“The combination of production and performance improvements, lower fuel consumption, easier maintenance, and Komatsu’s outstanding product support offerings make these among the lowest cost-per-metre loaders available in their class,” he said.

Brief specs of the new loaders are:

WA270-8: Operating weight, 12.8-13.2 tonnes; engine, Komatsu SAA6D107E-3 engine, rated at 111 kW; transmission, four-speed fourth-generation Komatsu HST; maximum speeds, F/R, 38/38 km/h; bucket capacity range, 1.9-2.7 cu m; GP bucket capacity, 2.3 cu m; GP bucket static tipping load at 40° full turn, 10,330 kg; bucket breakout, 13,375 kgf; dump clearance, 2975 mm.

WA320-8: Operating weight, 15.5-15.9 tonnes; engine, Komatsu SAA6D107E-3 engine, rated at 123 kW; transmission, four-speed fourth-generation Komatsu HST; maximum speeds, F/R, 38/38 km/h; bucket capacity range, 2.3-3.2 cu m; GP bucket capacity, 2.8 cu m; GP bucket static tipping load at 40° full turn, 11,500 kg; bucket breakout, 16,470 kgf; dump clearance, 2880 mm.

Pro-Dig Earthworks, a Launceston-based professional excavating service, is the first company to take delivery of the new Kobelco midi-excavator SK135SR-5 and it’s already giving them a boost over their competitors.

“A big plus is that it’s got the new Tier 4 Final engine – a good green tick for the larger projects we go for. Larger corporations and governments have stringent environmental policies, and this gives us a nice edge when competing for tenders,” says Callum Roberts, Director of Pro-Dig Earthworks.

The SK135SR-5, to be officially launched in April at the Diesel Dirt & Turf Expo in Penrith, New South Wales, is the first Kobelco midi release in Australia to showcase the Tier 4 Final engine, which meets international diesel exhaust emissions standards.

“Fuel consumption on the

is excellent – it has only done 200 hours so far but we’re currently only using 6 to 8 litres of diesel per hour,” Callum says.

“We took delivery of the new model about two months ago, and our operators love it. It’s smooth, comfortable and has a heated seat which is a big bonus for us in chilly Tasmania!”

Callum and his wife Candice established Pro-Dig Earthworks in 2008 with one excavator and a truck. This year, as the company celebrates its tenth year in the game, they have about 20 staff and 35 items in the fleet. Their excavator fleet of 14 is entirely Kobelco.

“In the beginning, we went to a few different suppliers to find a new excavator and we chose a Kobelco from DLM Machinery in Launceston. It was a great decision – Dave and his team have the best back-up service I’ve ever seen,” Callum says.

He notes that another reason Kobelco features so prominently in the Pro-Dig Earthworks fleet is the return on investment the equipment delivers.

“It’s a benefit that the Kobelco excavators are so fuel efficient – with that reduced overhead we can sharpen the pencil on our tender submissions which can help bring us to a better price point,” says Callum.

“We also get a really good resale value on the Kobelco excavators.”

Business is looking good for Pro-Dig Earthworks, which works mostly on commercial development projects and car park construction.

“We’ve increased our turnover significantly over the past 24 months,” Callum says.

“There has been significant growth in mainland investment into Tasmania, tourism is also up and construction projects are going ahead. Tasmania is in a good place.”