Construction and crane equipment manufacturer XCMG Africa, which forms part of the Chinese XCMG Group, reports that it has launched its largest yet XCMG wheel loader, currently available in Southern Africa.

“The new LW900K wheel loader, which was introduced to the local market at bauma Africa in September, supports the development of diverse industries, including the construction, mining and infrastructure sectors. It is particularly suited to opencast operations,” says XCMG Africa CEO Martin von Gericke.

“Continuous research and development forms part of the Chinese principal’s strategy to gain market share throughout the African continent. With sound international backing, an understanding of local market conditions and the support of an expert team, the South African operation is well positioned to achieve the company’s strategic growth aim,” he adds.

The robust LW900K wheel loader, with a 9 t loading capacity, has been designed for improved productivity, reliability and operator comfort. This environment-friendly machine also boasts low emissions in compliance with more stringent environmental regulations, including European and American emissions regulations and standards.

Further, Von Gericke explains that the loader is powered by the new electronically-controlled Cummins QSM11 engine, which has a power rating of 250 kW at 2 100 rpm and is supported by Cummins South Africa. A cyclone type prefilter, combined with a double filtering system, prevents the engine from damage in dusty environments.

The ZF 4WG 310 transmission – backed by transmission, steering and suspension technology provider ZF South Africa – has ZF electrohydraulic shifting and has been designed for improved working efficiency. Von Gericke notes that the functions of neutral gear start protection, shifting locking and the KD gear, are easy to operate.

“The single handle pilot control system reduces operating force and enhances operator comfort. An added safety feature on the transmission is a neutral starting facility and a gearshift lock out. The transmission is also equipped with a KD function,” he explains.

Further, the LW900K features a factory- fitted steering accumulator to facilitate steering if engine or hydraulic failure should occur. This improves operator safety and protection of the unit.

“The efficient combination of the low emissions Tier III Cummins QSM11 engine and ZF 4WG310 transmission – with the addition of ZF wet axles – results in a highly durable machine, perfectly designed for efficient operation in arduous mining and construction environments,” Von Gericke says, adding that the wet multidisc brakes are entirely enclosed, which prevents the ingress of dirt, thus reducing wear and maintenance requirements.

The hydraulic brake system also features a self-adjustable handbrake system.

“This machine has also been designed for low-oil consumption. This is achieved with a high-torque engine and high-capacity torque converter, which ensure optimum efficiency during low-speed travelling,” he adds.

Other key features include the steering accumulator, automatic lubrication system, oil warmer and differential lock. These wheel loaders also have a newly designed roll over and falling object protection structure cabin, high-intensity discharge/light emitting diode lighting and air conditioning for enhanced operator comfort.

Bucket capacities of the LW900K series vary between 4 m3 and 6.9 m3, with a rated bucket capacity of 4.5 m3. These machines have a dumping height of 3 400 mm and a dumping reach of 1 470 mm.

The wide track design and long wheel- base ensure stability and enhanced safety, even in rough working conditions. The maximum articulation angle of the loader is 40º, with a minimum turning radius of 6 200 mm.

“This new series, with a specially designed engine layout and large access bonnet doors on both sides, ensures easy servicing and quick daily maintenance. For enhanced safety during maintenance, the engine and transmission filters can be changed through the engine compartment,” Von Gericke notes.

He concludes that an added safety feature, which is standard with these wheel loaders, is an advanced rearview camera system that reduces blind spots during operation.