Komatsu GD955-7 grader arrives
The new model recently made its Australian debut in Mackay (Qld) ahead of a national roadshow for mining customers around the countryThe mining industry now has another grader to consider, with the new Komatsu GD955-7 recently breaking cover in Mackay (Qld), at its first local appearance before embarking on a national roadshow customer tour.
The GD955-7 has a mining focus, the new model adopting a ‘blade up’ design that Komatsu says delivers even more efficient ground penetration.
According to Michael Hall, Komatsu’s National Mining Product Manager, customers have been keenly awaiting the arrival of the model for some time.
“The GD955-7 is a ground-up designed mining grader,” he says. “It can grade 33 per cent more area per hour than the previous model with a standard 5.5m blade, or with an optional 6.1m blade width for even more productivity. It also has the highest blade downforce in class and the highest engine power in class. It’s a durable machine designed for high-power grading.
“With large haul trucks on mining sites, graders need to be larger and be more productive to support them. The GD955 is well matched to larger haul trucks anywhere from 90 to over 240 tonnes, making it a great addition to mining fleets.”
Superior vision
The GD955 comes standard with KomVision, Komatsu’s 360-degree camera system, which sees five cameras deliver superior vision around the vehicle. Camera output is displayed on the KomVision monitor, with an additional rear-view monitor for reversing and ripping operation.
“KomVision increases visibility for operators so they can get a full view of activity around the grader,” says Michael. “The monitor informs them if another machine is approaching or in their line of movement – a great safety feature for busy mine sites.
“The GD955-7 is also 50 per cent heavier than the previous model, meaning it can more easily grade hard-packed road surfaces and take on more demanding jobs.
Sneak preview
Several customers visited Komatsu’s Ibaraki plant, where the grader is manufactured, in Japan earlier this year for a preview of the new model ahead of its local introduction.
“We had really good feedback from the customers who joined us, and plan to start delivering this new model to customers come December,” Michael says.
For more information on the Komatsu GD955-7 grader, see your nearest Komatsu dealer.
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