In the past, dozers mainly served as a way to push around large amounts of dirt in a short amount of time. Now, thanks to advancements in technology, operators are able to use these machines for more fine-tuned work such as finish grading, spreading and clearing, in addition to traditional bulk material movement. Optimizing efficiency for all of these tasks is key. Here are five ways that dozer manufacturers are raising the bar for efficiency in 2020.
A comfortable operator is an efficient operator
The new John Deere 700L and 750L dozers feature significant improvements to operator comfort. The updates include an all-new operator station, lower cabin sound levels on both models, and low-effort electrohydraulic controls. Other comfort-boosting machine options include a premium heated and ventilated seat, rear camera and automatic temperature control, keeping operators comfortable even during long days.
Read more about John Deere's new 700L and 750L dozers here.
A new benchmark for visibility
Dressta's TD-16N is a dozer that, according to the manufacturer, sets a new benchmark for visibility. The
Easier and reduced maintenance keeps machines running longer
The new Cat D9 Dozer replaces the D9T model and offers design improvements that reduce maintenance and repair costs. The newly integrated AutoLube system results in fewer grease points to limit daily maintenance procedures, while extended filter change intervals, simple component removal and continuous fluid level monitoring also aid in further lowering operating costs. A new ground-level service center also provides convenient access to the engine shutdown switch, access/egress lighting and optional powered ladder operation.
Read more about the new Cat D9 dozer here.
Optimized dozing in a compact package
Case Construction Equipment introduced the DL550B, the industry's first fully integrated compact dozer loader, at CONEXPO-CON/AGG 2020. The DL550B leverages the footprint of a compact track loader with the chassis-integrated C-frame and blade of a dozer to create a two-in-one machine for grading and loading applications. While a standard CTL with a dozer blade attachment can be effective for occasional work, this combination doesn't provide true six-way blade performance. The DL550B is stronger and more reliable than a CTL with a dozer blade since the pushing power is channelled through the entire machine.
Additionally, the DL550B features a true dozer-style undercarriage for optimal dozing performance, as well as electro-hydraulic dozer joysticks that operate similar to ISO controls in skid steers and CTLs - changing from dozer to CTL operating function is as simple as the push of a button.
Read more about the DL550B , the industry's first fully integrated compact dozer loader, here.
Technology features enable dozers to do more, more accurately
Komatsu's intelligent Machine Control (iMC) is a suite of features that utilizes advanced machine technology to increase dozer productivity. Features include proactive dozing control, the ability to operate automatically 100 percent of the time, lift layer control, tilt steering control and quick surface creation. It also automatically tilts the blade to maintain straight travel during rough dozing while reducing the need for operator steering input by up to 80 percent.
Read more about Komatsu's intelligent Machine Control 2.0 here.
