Komatsu WB97S Universal Earthmoving Loader

The Komatsu WB97S series Japanese backhoe loader belongs to the latest generation of earthmoving equipment. Komatsu WB97S is characterized by many improvements and updates in terms of operator comfort, technical equipment. The model is relatively new.

Despite this, the backhoe loader has managed to gain notoriety for its versatility, versatility and productivity.

Application area

The all-wheel drive all-rounder is designed for use in the construction industry. The all-wheel drive all-rounder is designed for use in construction applications.

• The first is necessary for digging holes, trenches, excavations.
• With the loading bucket, the machine can move, load bulk materials, plan the area, and lift bulky loads.

In addition to the above mentioned tools, the chassis can be fitted with additional equipment. Instead of a loading bucket, a rotary snowplow or a utility brush can be attached. These mechanisms are useful for cleaning streets or industrial areas. In place of the backhoe, hydraulic actuators are installed: hammer, shears, vibration compactor. The tools are used for dismantling reinforced concrete structures or tamping the base for foundations or paving.

Type series

The company produces only 2 modifications of "Komatsu": models with indices "S" and "R". The first one is a machine with a chassis on equal tires. The peculiarity of the model is swivel hubs of all wheels. The loader has increased maneuverability, which is important when working in cramped conditions. The second version is equipped with different-sized front and rear wheels. Only the first ones are steerable. The model has a larger turning radius, and it is mainly used in excavation.

Main parameters

"Komatsu" WB97S 5th generation fully meets the brand standards in terms of safety, reliability of elements and performance. The main units are made of wear-resistant materials, and the quality of workmanship of even a minor detail is unquestionable. When designing the station wagon, special attention was paid to customer requests from all over the world. The chassis design was developed in response to objective comments and criticism.

Engine, fuel consumption

Under the hood of the "Japanese" there is a four-cylinder diesel engine of its own production, but assembled together with Iveco. It is a liquid-cooled inline engine. Fuel injection is realized according to the "DI" principle - direct injection into the cylinders. Torque is boosted by a turbocharger with an intermediate heat exchanger. A preheating system is provided for operating the machine in cold regions. Diesel parameters:

• rated speed - 2200 rpm;
• cylinder capacity - 4.485 liters;
• maximum torque (crankshaft revolutions) - 420 N-m (1200 rpm);
• average fuel consumption is 9-12 l/hour;
• cylinder diameter/piston stroke, mm - 104/132;
• 17.5:1 compression ratio;
• exhaust emission standard - 97/68EC 2004/26/EC - EU Stage IIIA.

Transmission, running gear

The engine is combined with a torque converter and gearbox. The gearbox is represented by the "Full Power Shift" system, which electronically controls the drives of the front and rear axles. The box works in semi-automatic mode, gives 4 steps for driving in forward and reverse directions. The front axle can be engaged automatically or manually by the operator. But it cannot be activated when traveling at transport speed. To make the chassis stable on uneven terrain, the front axle can be tilted 16° from one extreme position to the other. All wheels are steerable.

• The operator has 3 modes of operation: front only, all in the same direction, front and rear in different directions. This solution has increased the maneuverability of the loader, it can move "trail-to-trail" or "crab walk".
• Brakes on the machine are disc brakes immersed in oil bath. They are driven separately on the right and left sides. To activate braking of all wheels press 2 pedals simultaneously.

Hydraulics

The actuators of earthmoving and loading equipment are actuated by the pressure of the working fluid.

• The oil is pumped into the hydraulic system by an axial piston pump.
• It has a capacity of 165 l/min and a head of 25 MPa.

The hydraulic system itself, called SyncroSystem, ensures precise positioning of the working tool while simultaneously moving it in 3 planes. The operator has access to 2 hydraulic control modes: power and economy.

• The former provides performance with high fuel consumption.
• Economy mode implies operation in the engine speed range at which the highest torque is achieved. The performance of the machine will be reduced, but fuel consumption will be reduced.

In addition to these, the operator has access to a "speed boost" mode. This can be used when operating the loader.

Construction description

The WB97S loader does not differ externally from the previous models manufactured by the company.

• The loading equipment is located at the front.
• The cab is shifted closer to the rear to improve visibility of the work area when digging.
• In front of the workstation is a power unit covered by a hood.
• The boom of the earthmoving equipment is fixed on a movable carriage, which provides movement of the entire structure in the horizontal plane perpendicular to the axis of the excavator.

Workplace

The excavator is equipped with a comfortable cab with a power frame that protects the operator in the event of a rollover. All control systems are located at an optimum distance from the driver, making it easier to operate the machine and reducing the strain on the operator's hands. The basic equipment of the cab includes only a heater. Air conditioning is available on request.

Equipment

The WB97S leaves the assembly line with earthmoving and loading equipment mounted on it. Bucket parameters:

• width - 2420 mm;
• weight - 450 kg;
• capacity - 1.1 m³;
• load capacity at maximum height - 3900 kg;
• breaking force - 6500 kg.

The earthmoving equipment is represented by a backhoe attached to the handle and boom. The latter has a heavy-duty design that allows 180° rotation while maintaining torque. Characteristics of earthmoving equipment:

• bucket width - 600 mm;
• capacity - 0.3 m³;
• breakout force - 6100 kg;
• digging depth - 6465 mm;
• loading height - 6675.

In addition to the standard implements, the loader can be fitted with a utility brush, rotary snowplow, dozer blade, hydraulic hammer and shears.

Advantages, disadvantages

Owners of the machine, as well as service personnel, note the high reliability of the machine. It has a comfortable soundproofed cabin, in which you can work for a long time without getting tired. On the downside, the new model is overpriced, as well as expensive maintenance after the end of the service period.

Price of new, used, similar models

The manufacturer is offering for sale excavators that have just come off the assembly line for 100 thousand dollars. The price may vary depending on the equipment. A used machine costs 25-40% less. JCB 5CX excavator has similar characteristics. The Komatsu WB97S is equally quick on the jobsite or in the utility industry. The rugged design with a safety margin can work even in aggressive conditions. But no matter where the machine is used, the operator will always be safe.