Visibility to blade influences design of DEVELON dozer now available in North America

The DD130, a new mid-size dozer from DEVELON previewed at CONEXPO-CON/AGG 2023, is now available in North America. DEVELON's second dozer offering provides plenty of pushing power and traction, along with increased visibility and advanced technology.

Visibility to the blade is one of the key design factors put into the DD130. DEVELON has made the front engine compartment narrower and placed an in-line precleaner under the hood to provide a better view to the blade. The electronic cooling system was also moved to the back of the machine to help improve front visibility. Low-profile front pillars provide maximum glass area, and all-glass doors offer a full view of the working environment.

A standard rear-view camera is shown on the full-colour, 8-inch Smart Touch display. Four high-illumination LED lights, two in front and two in back, are also standard, with more available as options.

Power-tilt blade gives operators options

The 145.8-hp DD130 features a six-way power-tilt angle blade that gives operators options to reduce their passes by lifting, tilting, and angling the blade to move dirt and other materials exactly where they're needed. A two-way mechanical adjustment also allows operators to adjust the blade pitch from 52 to 58 degrees, to control how steeply it bites into the ground.

The DD130 comes standard with the oscillating serrated track system, which ensures consistent, stable ground contact for optimal grading performance and operator comfort. The oscillating serrated track system follows the terrain and enables more precise blade control. Also available is a blade float function for smooth back grading. The dozer blade moves up and down following the contours of the ground. A blade shake button helps operators quickly remove materials stuck to the blade without leaving the cab.

The DD130 also features a reduced-wear undercarriage link design. Single- and dual-flange rollers help maintain a reliable track system while reducing wear to increase expected component life.

From a performance perspective, operators can reduce fuel consumption by selecting ECO mode in light grading conditions. This lowers the pump power output when working in lower tractive conditions. Auto idle and auto shutdown are both standard features to aid in improving fuel efficiency.

Technology to improve dozer operation and efficiency

The DD130 is available with a 2D grading system, which makes precision grading easier even for novice operators. Inputs can be programmed into the system so that the machine then controls blade functions, finishing the job more quickly and with greater accuracy. The optional system does not require GPS or lasers. 3D machine guidance and control features will be available as options in the future.

Operator comfort is also improved by the electrohydraulic controls, which make the machine easier to run. An ergonomically designed joystick offers low-effort control to help reduce operator fatigue. Operators can customize the controls to their individual preferences and skill level.

Standard on the DD130 is DEVELON Fleet Management telematics, which allows for remote monitoring and maintenance. Users can check the health, location, and productivity of their dozer through the mobile app or website. Dealers can also make use of the system. DEVELON also offers Smart X-Care, through which an experienced team of heavy equipment specialists actively track telematics from a secure, state-of-the-art monitoring centre. They interpret data in real time, provide recommendations, and deliver reports.

Easy ground level access to service

Regular inspection points on the DD130 are easy to access from ground level. A standard, electronically operated tilting cab provides access to internal components. Areas of the undercarriage that are prone to greater wear and tear are also easier to access - for example, a removable side panel provides access to an area where the tension system can be greased.

The standard in-line precleaner helps improve filter life. Designed to be compact, it is integrated with the air cleaner. A self-cleaning and maintenance-free intake system expels a variety of debris, including mud, snow, leaves, sawdust, and chaff.