CONEXPO-CON/AGG, March 22, 2011—Komatsu America Corp. introduced its new line of D65-17 crawler dozers. The new crawler dozers are powered with the fuel efficient and larger displacement, 8.9 Liter, EPA Tier 4 Interim and EU Stage 3B emission certified Komatsu SAA6D114E-5 engines. Built upon a proven Tier 3 engine platform, Komatsu has leveraged its leadership in technology and innovation to design an environmentally friendly engine that increases power while decreasing fuel consumption an additional 5% over the Tier 3 model it replaces.
A standard (EX), low ground pressure (PX) and a wide (WX) track model are available to offer customers flotation and weight distribution options that best match their applications. Operating weight ranges from 44,355 lbs to 49,315 lbs depending on the version. The new models push with a net (ISO 9249 / SAE J1349) 205 HP at 1950 rpm.
Developed primarily for heavy dozing and finishing operations, the D65-17 combines the revolutionary SIGMADOZER* blade with a new highly efficient automatic transmission with torque converter lock-up to achieve exceptional productivity and fuel economy. A new Komatsu 6-way Power Angle Tilt (PAT) blade is also available for all models, creating a balanced and agile tractor for light and medium dozing operations. The blade also provides precise grade cutting required for site prep, golf course or house pad applications.
The new dozer is equipped with the latest KOMTRAXÒ technology which sends machine operating information to a secure website utilizing wireless technology. Hour meter, location, cautions, load ratio, fuel consumption and maintenance alerts – to name a few of its features – are relayed to the web application for analysis. The KOMTRAX fleet monitoring system increases machine availability, reduces the risk of machine theft, allows for remote diagnosis by the distributor, and provides a wealth of other information to drive business efficiency and productivity.
Special features of these new crawler dozers include:
- EPA Tier 4 Interim and EU Stage 3B Emission Certified Engine
Built upon proven Tier 3 technology, the Tier 4 Interim SAA6D114E-5 engine provides increased horsepower while lowering fuel consumption. Komatsu’s Tier 4 Interim engine platform uses an advanced electronic control system to manage airflow rate, fuel injection, combustion parameters, and after treatment functions to optimize performance, reduce emissions, and provide advanced diagnostic capability.
As a leader in hydraulic technology, Komatsu has also developed a hydraulically actuated Komatsu Variable Geometry Turbocharger (KVGT) and an Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) valve, resulting in better precision and air management as well as longer component life. The Komatsu Diesel Particulate Filter (KDPF) has an integrated design that will not interfere with daily operation but will keep the operator aware of its status.
- Choice of the next generation SIGMADOZER blade for unsurpassed productivity and grading, or PAT blade for maximum versatility and performance
The D65EX and WX are equipped with SIGMADOZER, providing the machine with a large blade capacity of 7.34 yd³ and 7.72 yd³ respectively. Based on a completely new excavation theory, SIGMADOZER dramatically improves dozing performance and increases productivity by 15% over conventional Semi-U blades as proven on the larger D155AX-6 and D275AX-5 dozers. The Komatsu designed blade increases soil holding capacity while simultaneously reducing sideway spillage because it digs and rolls material up at the center of the blade. SIGMADOZER also reduces digging resistance producing a smoother flow of material enabling the dozing of larger amounts of soil with less power.
A PAT blade with highly durable box structure C-Frame is optionally available for each model. The hydraulic blade tilt and angling function expands versatility and productivity in a variety of applications. The manually adjustable blade pitch further expands the versatility and productivity in many applications. The new D65-17 models include a new toggle switch to angle the 6-way blade for increased operator ease.
New automatic transmission significantly improves fuel economy
The D65-17s have a new automatic transmission with lock up torque converter that greatly reduces fuel consumption and offers greater power train efficiency. The lockup mechanics of the torque converter automatically transfers engine power directly to the transmission, reducing fuel consumption by 10 percent. The Tier 4 engine provides an additional 5% reduction. Because of the efficiency of the electronically controlled engine and transmission, fuel consumption is decreased while machine power is maintained.
Two gearshift modes – automatic or manual – can be easily selected to fit the appropriate application: automatic for all general dozing offers the choice of 4 forward and reverse speeds and manual for dozing and ripping rough ground offers the choice of 3 forward and 3 reverse speeds. For maximum operating efficiency, the automatic gearshift transmission shifts to the optimal gear range based on the working conditions and load.
Two selectable Working Modes – E and P – match machine performance to the application. E Mode is chosen for all general dozing, leveling and spreading applications providing adequate speed and power while saving up to 10% fuel. P Mode is chosen for slot dozing, ripping or other applications requiring maximum production where engine power has priority over fuel consumption.
- Newly designed joystick controls for power and comfort
Komatsu’s ergonomically designed Palm Command Control System (PCCS) gives operators maximum control, offering a relaxed posture and superb fine control to minimize operator fatigue. Thumb push buttons simplify transmission gear shifting. The pilot controlled hydraulic blade and ripper control joystick offer excellent blade and ripper fine control.
Engine speed is controlled using an easy-to-operate electronic throttle control dial, which eliminates maintenance of linkage and joints. Powerful turns under various work conditions are achieved with the Hydrostatic Steering System (HSS), which is driven by an independent hydraulic pump and motor to transmit power to both tracks without interruption. Counter-rotation is available for minimum turning radius, providing excellent maneuverability.
- New cab design creates optimal operator environment
The new D65-17 crawler dozer’s comfortable working environment, allows the operator to concentrate on the work at hand for increased productivity. The new larger cab is now integrated with ROPS (Roll-Over Protection Structure) and moves the standard air ride operator’s seat 3 inches higher and 4 inches closer to the blade for excellent front, side and rear visibility.
The dozer’s viscous cab mounts reduce shocks and vibration even over adverse conditions. The interior cab decibel has been decreased to 75dB for a quiet work environment. A new, large 7” high resolution color LCD monitor in the cab displays all machine information. A comfortable standard air ride seat with heat enhances operator comfort further.
- Convenient Maintenance Equals Guaranteed Reliability
Recognizing that maintenance is critical for successful equipment uptime, Komatsu has designed the D65-17 with easy routine maintenance in mind. Daily engine checks are grouped at the left hand side of the engine compartment. A manually reversing fan allows for quick cleaning of the radiator without leaving the cab. The D65-17 also comes standard with the Parallel Link Undercarriage System (PLUS). This rotary bushing system doubles the undercarriage life compared to prior conventional systems, significantly lowering owning and operating costs.
*SIGMADOZER is a registered trademark of Komatsu Ltd., Japan.