Komatsu has celebrated the arrival of the WA700-8 wheel loader at Golden Bay Cement, the first in Australia and New Zealand.
Komatsu has marked a major milestone with the delivery of the first WA700-8 wheel loader across New Zealand and Australia, supplied to Golden Bay Cement, New Zealand’s longest-standing cement manufacturer.
Golden Bay Cement operates the country’s only fully integrated cement manufacturing plant, located in Portland, near Whangārei on New Zealand’s North Island. The company produces high-quality clinker and cement used in a wide range of construction and infrastructure projects across the country. The first WA700-8 wheel loader is Golden Bay’s latest Komatsu addition, with a current fleet of 11 Komatsu machines.
Sustainability is at the core of partnership
Golden Bay is committed to sustainability, aiming to reduce its carbon footprint by 30 per cent by 2030 which is a goal that closely aligns with Komatsu’s own values of environmental responsibility. Golden Bay Cement quarry manager for Portland Tony Warren said the company is focused on finding practical ways to reduce emissions while maintaining efficient production.
“One of the reasons we invested in the WA700-8 loader is its improved fuel efficiency, which directly supports our sustainability goals,” he said.
“When we produce the clinker material, we burn limestone in a kiln using a combination of coal, used tyres and wood waste, and the loader is used to load material from various outputs across the quarry to create the right blend for cement production.
“Some parts of the quarry are less usable on their own, but by blending material from different areas, we can reduce waste and make use of the whole product. The loader’s ability to efficiently move across the site has been a real asset in that process.”
A machine built for tough applications
Komatsu Australia’s national business manager for quarries Nick Vrontas said the WA700-8 has been thoughtfully engineered to meet the unique demands of heavy-duty operations, such as Golden Bay’s, while lowering fuel consumption and reducing environmental impact.
“Fuel efficiency has been a major priority in the WA700-8’s design. With up to eight per cent improved fuel efficiency over the previous model, the loader offers an opportunity to cut operational costs while supporting more sustainable practices,” he said.
At the heart of the WA700-8 is a powerful 578 kW engine, which provides the muscle needed for the toughest applications. The model delivers 15 per cent more torque than its predecessor, coupled with an increased bucket capacity to significantly enhance production rates.
“The bucket has been redesigned for improved productivity and durability. Its new shape, with a larger radius and steeper floor angle, makes the bucket easier to fill and helps keep more material in during operation,” Vrontas said.
“The spill guard design was adjusted to give operators improved visibility to the pile, and sweeper wings on either side of the bucket help to protect the front tires.”
Designed for durability in demanding conditions, the WA700-8 features a reinforced frame and upgraded loader linkage, ensuring long-term reliability and consistent performance even in the toughest environments.
Operator safety and comfort were also at the forefront of mind during development. The spacious, ergonomically designed cabin features advanced joystick steering and intuitive controls to promote greater comfort and productivity during long shifts.
Smart tech drives efficiency and performance
Vrontas said that the WA700-8 offers a suite of smart features specifically designed to support operator performance, improve workflow, and promote safer, more efficient operations.
“Features such as Automatic Dig, Semi-Automatic Approach, and Semi-Auto Dump have been developed to enhance efficiency and reduce operator fatigue,” he said.
“These technologies take the pressure off the operator during repetitive tasks and help to maintain consistency across shifts while allowing them to focus more on site awareness and safety. It’s all about creating a smoother, smarter experience in the cab.”
These intelligent solutions not only simplify the loader’s operation but also contribute to reduced wear and tear on the machine and improved fuel economy which are benefits that align closely with both operational and sustainability goals.
“The machine is also equipped with Komatsu SmartLoader Logic – an engine control system that delivers the right amount of torque for each phase of work,” Vrontas said.
“For example, more torque is needed when digging in a V-shape loading pattern, and less when driving with an empty bucket. This system automatically adjusts torque to suit the application, helping to reduce fuel consumption without compromising performance. Komatsu SmartLoader Logic operates automatically and doesn’t interfere with the operator’s work. It simply helps save fuel while maintaining productivity.”
“The WA700-8 represents Komatsu’s dedication to providing innovative, efficient, and sustainable solutions for our customers.
“We’re excited to introduce the first of its kind to the Oceania region and see it supporting Golden Bay Cement’s focus on sustainability and efficiency.”
Other key specs:
- 775HP (578kW) at 2000rpm of engine power
- Operating weight of 97 tonnes
- Bucket capacity of 9.2m³
- KomVision camera system
- Komatsu SmartLoader Logic engine control system •
For more information, visit komatsu.com.au
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