Komatsu expands 'intelligent' dozer line-up
New dozers come with integrated control systems for fully automatic dozing, from start to finishKomatsu Australia has added three new models to its 'intelligent' dozer range, following the launch of its D61EXi/PXi-23 model almost two years ago.
The D65EXi/PXi-18 (21-23 tonnes), the D85EXi/PXi-18 (29.5-30.5 tonnes) and the D155AXi-8 (41 tonnes) currently sits on top of the range.
Besides the fully integrated machine control system, another new feature of the models is the Tier 4 Final engines which help lower fuel consumption.
Komatsu's intelligent dozer concept allows the machines to carry out both bulk and final trim dozing tasks in fully automatic mode from start to finish, the company says.
"This allows them to significantly increase productivity and efficiency – up to twice as productive as dozers fitted with 'bolt-on' third party machine control systems according to Australian users and operators – while reducing the cost of each metre of material moved," says Komatsu Australia's Technology Solution Expert Team Manager, Aaron Marsh.
Each model in Komatsu's intelligent dozer range features a factory-installed fully integrated 3D GNSS (Global Navigation Satellite System) machine control system.
A fully integrated system eliminates the need for coiled cables around the machines as well as the need to connect and recalibrate every day, Marsh adds.
An enhanced sensor package replaces traditional blade-mounted sensors, and provides for finish-grade accuracy, Komatsu says.
The machine control system automatically controls blade elevation and tilt according to target design data, using industry standard design data software and systems.
"With these machines, not only can the automatic machine control features be used for finish grading but also for bulk dozing – a capability which is unique to Komatsu intelligent dozers," Marsh says.
As the dozer moves forward and picks up more load, the blade is automatically raised to control the load and minimise shoe slip. When the material level approaches the target design surface, the blade will follow with millimetre accuracy for close finish grading.
Operators can select from four different operating modes to suit different applications, including cut-and-carry, cutting, spreading and final trim grading.
Construction progress can be checked using the integrated mapping display, which collects surface data by continuously measuring actual elevations as the machine operates.
"When we released our first intelligent dozer, the D61EXi/PXi-23, we described the technology as fully scalable to other machines in our dozer range," Marsh says.
"Now we have the proof of that in these three larger models."
Komatsu's latest technology Tier 4 Final engines are installed in the intelligent dozer range, which Komatsu says reduce fuel consumption without compromising on performance.
"Based on Komatsu proprietary technologies developed over many years, these new engines lower nitrogen oxides (NOx) and particulate matter (PM) by more than 90 per cent, compared with Tier 3-compliant engines," Marsh adds.
This engine technology, combined with Komatsu's Sigmadozer blade and unique automatic/torque lockup transmission system, delivers fuel efficiency improvements of between 20 and 30 per cent per metre of dirt moved, Komatsu claims.
The new dozers also feature Komats's KOMTRAX remote monitoring system, which allows operators to check telemetry and machine health at all times.
Visit komatsu.com.au for more information on Komatsu's intelligent dozer range.
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