Komatsu, a global leader in the manufacturing of heavy-duty machinery, has selected Greece as a key reference point for the development of the new generation WA600 loader in its Stone Handler version. As part of this initiative, Komatsu engineers (from the Research and Development division of its Japanese factories) visited the quarries of Pavlidis Marble S.A. and Nordia S.A. in Northern Greece to collect valuable data for improving the performance of the new model.
The selection of Greece as a reference point confirms the country’s strategic role in the marble quarrying sector. Pavlidis Marble S.A., with operations mainly in Northern Greece and neighboring countries, produces more than 300,000 tons of raw marble blocks annually. The company has industrial facilities covering 30,000 square meters near the city of Drama, where part of the marble blocks is processed into final products.
Nordia S.A., with its advanced expertise in quarrying and the use of modern loaders in demanding environments, also proved to be an ideal partner for Komatsu.
During the visit, Komatsu specialists conducted measurements and analyses on existing machines and techniques used in these specific operations. The research aimed to enhance the performance of next-generation machinery, ensuring seamless operation, reliability, and maximum efficiency and durability in real working conditions.
The quarries of Pavlidis Marble S.A. and Nordia S.A. were selected due to their advanced expertise in quarrying and the use of modern KOMATSU WA600-8 Stone Handler loaders in demanding environments. This collaboration provides Komatsu with valuable data for the development of new-generation loaders, designed to meet the needs of industry professionals even more effectively.
The Komatsu WA600-8 Stone Handler loader is known for its exceptionally robust design, ensuring a long lifespan even under the toughest conditions. The machine’s specialized configuration for handling large marble and stone blocks includes a reinforced machine frame and articulation, a modified hydraulic system, strengthened axles with an oil cooling system, additional counterweights, and specially designed components, ensuring optimal kinematics and performance in the most demanding tasks.
About Komatsu
With a strong global presence, Komatsu continues to lead the heavy machinery industry, continuously investing in research and technology. Through this strategy, it ensures high performance, reliability, and efficiency for professionals in construction, mining, and industrial applications.
The development of its machinery is a core pillar of Komatsu’s philosophy, aiming at continuous improvement and adaptation to market needs. With innovative initiatives, Komatsu remains at the forefront of the industry, offering solutions that meet the increasing demands of modern projects.
