Komatsu makes the grade for fuel efficiency

Komatsu has released a new grader - the GD655-6 with a low-emissions Tier 4 Final engine and features designed to improve fuel efficiency, safety, durability and reliability.

The GD655-6 is powered by a Komatsu SAA6D107E-3 Tier 4 Final-compliant variable horsepower engine, rated at 134-165kW (depending on gear and operating mode) and with an operating weight of 18.9 tonnes with rear ripper.

Komatsu claims the new engine reduces both particulate matter (PM) and nitrous oxide (NOx) levels by 90 per cent, and fuel consumption by up to 15 per cent, compared to its Tier-3 predecessor.

All Komatsu Tier 4 engines incorporate an advanced electronic control system that performs high-speed processing of all signals from sensors installed in the vehicle, providing total control of equipment in 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, this data can be accessed and managed via the KOMTRAX telematics remote monitoring system (supplied as standard on all Komatsu construction and utility machines), ensuring owners and fleet managers stay on top of all maintenance requirements.

According to Komatsu’s National Business Manager for Government & Construction Graders, Phil Atley, the upgraded machine retains all the benefits of its predecessor, while further lowering ownership and operating costs.

“Since we released the GD655-5 and GD555-5 in 2010, Komatsu graders have become recognised for their outstanding visibility to the blade, front wheels and rear ripper,” 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.

An engine stall prevention function operates in manual mode which automatically changes to auto mode with torque converter to avoid stalling.

Komatsu said all the new and improved features combine to offer significantly improved fuel consumption.

“Compared with its predecessor, the GD655-6 uses five per cent less fuel in P (power) mode, and 15 per cent less fuel in E (economy) mode,” Atley 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.”

Komatsu has also increased machine durability through a reinforced blade circle, as well as a change to a resin in the circle wear plate material, which prevents scratches and results in longer service life.

Safety and operator comfort have also been improved with the addition of a new style hydraulically driven fan and redesigned cooling system layout for reduced noise levels, as well as a new rear mounted ripper to allow a rear-view camera system.

Komatsu has also introduced improved maintenance features on the GD655-6 which includes easier access to service areas, a battery disconnect switch and enhanced maintenance information, including warnings when critical maintenance intervals are approaching.

“Komatsu graders are becoming increasingly popular among operators and fleet owners for their ease of operation, their power and precision, their excellent visibility, outstanding reliability and lower operating costs,” Atley said.

“The improvements and upgrades to the GD655-6 will further enhance its reputation as one of the leading construction and maintenance graders on the market.”

Operating weight with ripper: 18.9 tonnes

Engine: Komatsu SAA6D107E-3 Tier 4 Final-compliant variable horsepower engine, rated at 134-165 kW (depending on gear and operating mode)

Blade length: 3.66 m (4.27 m option)

Transmission: Full powershift with lockup torque converter with anti-stall function

Speeds: 8F/4R

Maximum speed: 44.3km/h

Overall length: 10.875m

Minimum turn radius: 7.4m