The latest bulldozers are said to offer performance gains, as well as greater working efficiency. Caterpillar and Hyundai are both offering new models that deliver higher productivity and benefit from the latest smart control technology.
Caterpillar says that its next-generation D8 dozer features advanced technology designed to provide faster and more accurate results. The long undercarriage is said to deliver high-penetration forces and efficient dozing performance.
The Cat C15 engine offers 271kW, an increase in power over the previous model, allowing it to handle a wider range of tasks. The next-generation cab offers more space than the previous design and features an integrated rollover protective structure (ROPS), as well as 17% more visibility. It can be removed in 30 minutes to allow access for servicing.
The touchscreen display has built-in, key-features assistance to give operators an overview of the machine. When the machine is in reverse, the rearview-camera feed shows in the display.
Assist-technology features minimise operator input, boosting productivity for less experienced operators and decreasing effort and fatigue, while delivering quicker and more precise outcomes. Cat Assist with Attachment Reader Option (ARO) are standard features and they include: stable blade, traction control, steer assist, blade load monitor, autoRip, autoCarry, Cat Grade and slope indicate. Featuring an external connector for installation of a roof-mounted unit, the machine is also remote-control ready. Cat Command for Dozing allows remote dozer operation when working in hazardous environments. Portable and lightweight, the Command console provides line-of-sight remote control up to 400m for optimum visibility.
The remote control can be used at greater distances using camera equipment and the station features a comfortable seat, familiar controls and allows the use of Grade, Payload, Assist and other technologies using the included touchscreen.
The next-generation D8 dozer design enables a wide range of machine connectivity. The Remote Troubleshoot tool allows the Cat dealer to perform dozer diagnostic testing remotely. And Remote Flash enables on-board software updates without a technician.
Hyundai Construction Equipment claims that its powerful mid-weight dozer delivers best-in-class power and tractive effort, precise grading and a range of smart technologies.
The new HD130 offers fully electrohydraulic controls and 2D blade dozing assist function as standard. It also has a narrow nose with inline pre-cleaner and large windows for high visibility, as well as a 117kW engine providing best-in-class power output. The tilting cab allows access to major driveline components while the durable undercarriage offers long service life.
Power comes from a proven Perkins 4.4litre diesel, delivering 710Nm of torque. An Eco Mode can be selected for lighter grading duties, lowering the hydraulic pump power output and reducing fuel consumption by 5%. Auto idle and auto shutdown features help to reduce fuel use over the working shift. The machine has a reversible hydraulically-driven cooling fan for the engine and hydraulic oils, with an electrically-driven fan for the charge air cooler that can also be reversed to clean out the core. The cooling system is located towards the rear of the machine, rather than in front of the operator. This keeps cooling cores are situated out of dusty areas behind the blade while allowing a slim engine canopy that maximises visibility to the blade tips.
Daily service points are reached from ground level through access doors. As the cab can be tilted rearwards, there is good access to the driveline and hydraulics.
A variable displacement axial piston pump provides high hydraulic flow. The two-speed transmission offers a maximum travel speed of up to 9km/h. There are two six-way power-tilt angle dozer options. A 3.54m3 XL blade is standard, while a 4.18m3 capacity LGP blade is available as an option. A two-way mechanical adjustment also allows the operator to set the blade pitch. The HD130A has an operating weight of 15.3tonnes with the LGP blade, and 14.5tonnes in XL configuration.
The standard 2D blade dozing assist function can be programmed to the required finish grade. The machine controls blade functions, without the need for lasers or GPS control. A draw bar is offered and the machine can be equipped with piping for a parallel ripper. The ROPS/FOPS cab rides on CabSus mounts to dampen vibrations and provide protection for the operator against impacts. Glazed doors provide an unobstructed view of the blade, with the engine air pre-cleaner hidden beneath the canopy, improving visibility further. Standard features include a rear-view camera and four high-illumination LED working lights.
Electro-hydraulic controls are standard in the HD130A, to meet the needs of all operator skill levels. Ergonomically-designed joysticks, with integral armrests, deliver low effort control for minimum fatigue. The HD130A is equipped with Hyundai’s Hi MATE remote management system as standard. Using GPS technology, telematic monitoring provides real-time machine operating data, including location information.
