Caterpillar’s D8 XE bulldozer is said to offer high efficiency and performance. The machine shares many components, such as the engine, with the existing Next Generation D8 dozer with a conventional mechanical drive but offers even higher efficiency and productivity.
According to the firm, the new diesel-electric variant typically runs the engine at a lower rpm (1,400-1,500rpm instead of 2,100rpm) and offers a fuel saving of up to 10% over the conventional model with its mechanical drive. Combined with the increased productivity for the D8 XE, this delivers an overall efficiency gain of up to 18%, depending on the application. Product manager Corey Metz said: “You can get more work done in the same time.”
The single electric motor is mounted onto the drive system and the machine retains the proven differential steering, allowing high manoeuvrability. The electric-drive system, meanwhile, shares many components with the smaller D6 XE already available. Because of the diesel-electric drive, the new D8 XE offers a smoother transition between speed ranges than the conventional D8.
Meanwhile, Komatsu is introducing the all-new D175AX-10, which is said to offer safety, efficiency, productivity and reliability in bulldozer technology. This innovative machine has been developed with input from Komatsu’s customers.
Also from Komatsu is the new D61EX(i)/PX(i)-25, which is the latest of the firm’s next-generation hydrostatic dozer range. It is said to offer both power and versatility while it can handle demanding tasks. The machine is powered by an emissions-compliant diesel rated at 126kW and weighs from 18.6-19.6tonnes, depending on specification. Blade capacities range from 3.4-3.8m³ while the standard blade measures 3.86m x 1.16m.
The machine features an innovative operator interface and a redesigned 3.0 new-generation intelligent Machine Control (iMC). The operator also benefits from a comfortable and ergonomic working area offering high visibility to the blade.
For both models, the design team focused on customers’ environmental requirements. This focus sees ultra-low CO2 emissions/tonne of material produced, 100% compatibility with HVO fuel and increased fuel efficiency.
In addition, Komatsu Europe International is offering a new advance for connected construction. The firm will be able to deliver high-density, as-built data visualisation with every newly delivered Komatsu intelligent Machine Control (iMC) bulldozer. The new initiative gives contractors direct access to survey grade jobsite information without requiring onsite surveyors, with a complimentary one-year license for the Smart Construction Dashboard.
