Wirtgen W100F Cold Milling Machine
The Wirtgen W100F cold milling machine is used to remove asphalt with a maximum cutting width of 1 metre and a depth of up to 320mm. The four legs can be configured for either wheels or tracks and are hydraulically adjustable in height with a good steering lock at the front allowing the machine to be precisely manouvered. Powered by a 6-cylinder Cummins QSC8.3 water cooled diesel engine generating 304hp, the W100F has more than enough power to cut through the toughest road surface with ease and NZG have done a great job in capturing all the details of the full sized machine, producing a 1:50th scale model that has some great engineering touches.
Out of the box, the model has a good weight to it and once on the desk, the detail is evident throughout. The yellow tracks with red guards are a striking contrast to the white and grey colour scheme and have good detailing moulded into each track pad. Each track assembly pivots with functional steering of the front legs along with up and down movement of all four legs fully matching the movement on the full sized machine.
The operators station has a roof canopy with amber beacon which can be realistically lowered for transport. The drivers seat with arm rests is central with a large control console, smaller display screen and steering wheel all present, complete with safety railings and accurately textured diamond plate floor panel with access steps leading to the rear of the model.
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The rear work platform can be lowered into a working position which is a good touch on the model. There is also a mirror fitted to the rear side panel to give the operator a good view along the opposite side of the machine. |
The rear of the cutting module has a simulated door with fixed hydraulic cylinder mimicking the function of the full sized machine. Access to the upper deck is from the rear mounted access steps which have a textured anti-slip surface and integrated grab rails.
The opening engine compartment is another good addition on the model and demonstrates the extra level of realism being added to the latest NZG releases. The internal engine bay has been modelled well and the cover is stiff enough to remain open. |
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One of the most striking features on the model is the opening service door of the cutter housing allowing the three different cutting drums to be fitted. There is a course, full width cutter, a full width fine cutter and a narrow cutter which all have individually cast and very realistic tooth detail.
The stabiliser leg on the rear corner is fitted to an arcing support bar which allows the model to accurately simulate the egde cutting function of the full sized machine when the leg is folded into the body in front of the cutting drum and this is another great touch on the model. With the leg folded out, the centrally located first stage conveyor can be seen and this is fitted with a flexible rubber belt with accurate chevron pattern moulded into the surface. This is another example of the extra detailing that NZG are adding, even when the details are mainly hidden.
The main discharge conveyor is constructed of a metal frame with clip on plastic cover which simulates the cover fitted to the real machine. The conveyor can be angled left and right and has a rotating flexible rubber belt with moulded surface detailing fitted. The mechanism to raise and lower the conveyor has been very nicely engineered, using wire rope connected to the hydraulic cylinder with two more safety wire ropes fitted to prevent the conveyor falling. A stiff rubber chute is used to transfer the spoil from the first conveyor to the main discharge conveyor, again adding to the level of realism.
The degree of steering of the front track assemblies is very good and while not linked due to model constraints, the range of movement coupled with individual heigh adjustment of each leg allows the model to be authentically posed in a number of working and transport configurations. Other details added to the model include rear view mirrors and work lights fitted to the body sides. This is another great release from NZG with a quality paint finish throughout and crisp Wirtgen markings, securely packed in a two piece polystyrene carton and printed outer box.
