Komatsu GD655-7 grader focuses on operator comfort

Komatsu has released a new grader - the GD655-7 that incorporates a series of improvements including an all-new operator station and transmission updates to improve overall operator experience.

The GD655-7 is powered by a Komatsu SAA6D107E-3 Tier 4 Final-compliant variable horsepower engine, rated at 180-221hp (depending on gear and operating mode) and with an operating weight of 19.3 tonnes with rear ripper.

“We’re highlighting these enhanced grader control systems as putting the future at your fingertips,” said Komatsu’s National Business Manager, Government & Construction Graders, Phil Atley.

The new features include an all-new operator station, with features such as EPC (electronic proportional controls) for blade and ripper functions, and the option of dual-function palm controlled steering or a conventional steering wheel.

“Our EPC palm control systems greatly cut down operator effort, reducing hand and wrist movements by 95 per cent, resulting in far lower operator fatigue and improved jobsite safety,” Atley said.

“In addition, this new grader retains our unique dual-mode direct drive and torque converter transmission system, upgraded with a new range change and forward/reverse controls for reduced driveline shock – and again contributing to reduced operator fatigue and very long service life of transmission drive line components.”

Atley added the Tier 4 Final engine, which has been matched to the Komatsu-designed and built transmission, driveline and hydraulics, results in fuel consumption reductions of five to 15 per cent compared to previous models.

“This new grader uses five per cent less fuel in P (power) mode, and 15 per cent less fuel in E (economy) mode,” he said.

“Fuel consumption is further reduced through increased cooling capacity, a new auto idle stop function, an improved operator interface on the machine monitoring system, and a new ECO assistance feature that encourages fuel-saving operating practices.”

Standard on the GD655-7 are factory-fitted cabling, controls and bracketing for multiple makes of 3D machine control systems, allowing customers to simply install a “plug and play” kit to use with their own or a rented 3D machine control system, with no additional cabling or brackets.

“With this ‘plug and play’ installed, customers can go straight to work with a 3D GPS system from Trimble, Topcon or other leading suppliers,  without having to spend money and time on preparing the machine,” Atley said.

“We believe these technology advances, including improved ease of use, increased safety and true machine ‘plug and play’ gives our new grader strong appeal to Australian contractors.”

Komatsu said the GD655-7’s Tier 4 Final-compliant engine also reduces both particulate matter (PM) and nitrous oxide (NOx) levels by 90 per cent compared with Tier 3 predecessor engines.

As with all Komatsu Tier 4 engines, it incorporates an advanced electronic control system that performs high-speed processing of all signals from sensors installed in the grader, providing total control of equipment across all conditions of use.

Engine condition information is displayed via an on-board network to the monitor inside the cab, providing all necessary operating data to the operator.

Additionally, the data can be accessed and managed via Komatsu’s KOMTRAX telematics remote monitoring system (supplied as standard on all Komatsu construction and utility machines).

Atley said the new GD655-7 grader machine retained all the benefits of its predecessor machines, while significant technology improvements contributed to increased productivity and safety while lowering ownership and operating costs.

“Komatsu graders have become recognised for their outstanding visibility to the blade, front wheels and rear ripper – and that’s been improved even more through further improvements to cab design,” he said.

“Operators also appreciate our unique Komatsu transmission system, which provides the option of full powershift or our lockup Torque Converter Auto mode, which delivers power for tough grading, or low-speed fine control."

Komatsu’s lock-up torque converter transmission with electronic control has been designed and manufactured specifically for Komatsu graders, providing on-the-go, full power shifting as well as inching capability and automatic shifting in higher ranges.

It provides the option of automatic torque converter mode for maximum productivity in any application, with its automatic gear shifting; while manual mode gives direct drive in all gears, working the same way as conventional power shift graders with constant machine speed.

Machine durability has been enhanced through a reinforced blade circle, plus a change to a resin in the circle wear plate material, which prevents scratches and results in longer service life.