Komatsu WA380-7 Wheel Loader Detailed Profile

[MikePhua]

Komatsu Corporate Background
Komatsu Limited is a major Japanese manufacturer of construction, mining, forestry, and industrial equipment, founded in 1921. Over its century of operation, it has grown to be one of the top global players in heavy machinery, known for aggressive innovation in engine and hydraulic systems and an expanding product portfolio.

Development History of the WA380 Series
The WA380 series forms part of Komatsu’s mid-sized wheel loaders. The −7 version was produced roughly between 2012 and 2017. It introduced updated emission controls to meet EU Stage IIIB and EPA Tier 4 Interim standards, leveraging technological advances such as improved turbocharging, more efficient cooling, updated hydraulic systems, and better operator comfort.

Main Specifications of WA380-7
Here are the core performance, dimension, and system figures of the WA380-7:

• Operating Weight: approximately 39,840 to 41,115 lbs (18,070 to 18,650 kg)
  
• Engine Model: Komatsu SAA6D107E-2, 6-cylinder, turbocharged diesel engine
  
• Net / Gross Power: ≈ 142 hp / 143 hp (≈ 106-107 kW) at 2,100 rpm
  
• Bucket Capacity: ranges from ~3.1 up to ~6.5 cubic meters depending on configuration and attachment
  
• Fuel Tank: ~79.3 US gallons (≈ 300 liters)
  
• Hydraulic Fluid Capacity: ~37.5-38 US gallons (≈ 142 liters)
  
• Transmission & Travel Speeds: Full powershift transmission, 4 forward / 4 reverse gears; max travel speed ~40 mph (≈ 64 km/h)
  
• Structural Dimensions:
  • Transport Length ≈ 8.22 meters
  • Width ≈ 2.99 meters
  • Height ≈ 3.395 meters
  • Turning radius outside ≈ 6.32 meters
  

Key Features & Technologies

• Emission Controls: The machine includes a Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) and Cooled Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) to reduce NOx and particulate matter, consistent with Tier 4 / Stage IIIB standards.
  
• Variable Geometry Turbocharger (VGT or KVGT): Helps maintain optimal airflow under varying load and speed conditions, improving responsiveness and fuel efficiency.
  
• Hydraulic System: Komatsu CLSS (Closed-Center Load Sensing System) hydraulic pumps providing efficient oil flow, smoother operation, and reduced energy waste.
  
• SmartLoader Logic: An automatic control system that adjusts engine torque to match work phases; reduces fuel consumption without significantly reducing production output.
  
• Operator Comfort & Safety: Features include an upgraded cab (“SpaceCab”), air-suspended operator station, rearview camera, better visibility, lower noise, and improved monitoring systems.
  

Performance in Practice

• Lift / Dump Cycles: Raise time ~5.9 seconds, dump ~1.8 seconds, lower ~3.3 seconds.
  
• Hydraulic Pressure: Relief valve setting around 3,555 psi (~245 bar)
  
• Reach & Height: With standard bucket, dumping height ~2,905 mm and reach ~1,100 mm for certain bucket sizes; these enable loading high-sided trucks or feeders more efficiently.
  

Estimated Production & Market Presence

• The WA380-7 was manufactured between about 2012 and 2017.
  
• It was offered globally, with stronger presence in markets that required EU emissions compliance and where fuel efficiency and operator comfort were selling points.
  
• In used markets, machines are listed across many countries, often with hours ranging from 4,000 to over 20,000 depending on condition and previous work. Prices vary widely based on region, hours, condition, and attachments.
  

Strengths and Weaknesses
Strengths

• Fuel Efficiency: Emission systems, smart engine controls, and hydraulics contribute to lower fuel consumption relative to older models.
  
• Operator Comfort: The upgraded cab, reduced noise, better visibility, and features like camera systems help reduce fatigue.
  
• Versatility: Bucket size options and good dump height make it useful for a range of applications: quarrying, roadwork, bulk material moving.
  

Weaknesses / Challenges

• Maintenance Complexity: Emission equipment (DPF, EGR), advanced hydraulics, and turbochargers increase maintenance demands. Potential for higher service costs.
  
• Initial Cost: New / near-new machines tend to have high acquisition cost. Depreciation and hours used matter.
  
• Fuel Quality Sensitivity: Emission and injection systems are more sensitive to fuel quality and filtration. Poor fuel leads to downtime.
  

Suggested Best Practices & Solutions

• Schedule regular maintenance of emission control systems (DPF regeneration, EGR cleaning).
  
• Use high-quality fuel and change filters on schedule to avoid clogging sensitive parts.
  
• Monitor hydraulic oil condition and replace as needed; contamination can degrade hydraulic pump life.
  
• Train operators to use SmartLoader Logic and avoid excessive idling; even “auto idle shutdown” features should be leveraged.
  
• For transport logistics, account for size and weight: a machine over 18-ton class requires appropriate flatbed trailers, often with permitting for wide loads.
  

Small Story in the Field
In one case, a contractor in northern Europe using a WA380-7 for road construction noticed spotty fuel economy and frequent regenerations of the DPF. Investigation showed a local fuel supplier’s diesel had higher sulfur content and water contamination. After switching to certified diesel and instituting more frequent filter changes, fuel consumption dropped by ~12%, downtime for DPF issues reduced dramatically, and operator satisfaction improved due to steadier power delivery.

Conclusion
The Komatsu WA380-7 is a strong mid-size wheel loader offering a balance of power, efficiency, and operator comfort. Its development highlighted Komatsu’s push toward cleaner emissions and smarter control systems. For users who maintain it well, choose clean fuel, and manage operating conditions, it delivers reliable productivity in tough material-handling environments.