Caterpillar introduce new D8T dozer
New dozer designed to deliver more productivity, better fuel efficiency and improved ease of operation
CATERPILLAR say their latest D8T dozer is designed to move more material in less time, at a lower cost per ton, for a faster return on equipment investment. The dozer features an all-new, fully automatic transmission that delivers more productivity, without consuming more fuel, and unprecedented ease of operation.
According to Cat, added blade capacity, increased power and steering performance, and a full range of technology options, all combine to help customers realize more productivity and a faster payback.
The new D8T is said to move up to 18% more material per hour than the previous model, while using approximately the same amount of fuel, representing a significant fuel-efficiency gain. In lighter applications, customers can expect to see up to 11% fuel savings compared with doing the same work with the previous model.
Much of the productivity gain comes from a new Caterpillar-designed, fully automatic, four-speed transmission. The powertrain continuously optimizes the dozer for maximum power and greatest efficiency based on the load. There is no need to upshift or downshift, so operators of varying experience levels can get the most from the dozer without having to manage gear changes. The added gear and seamless lock-up clutch engagement help ensure smooth shifting.
The D8T’s Semi-Universal (SU) blade capacity has been increased by 19%. At 10.3 cubic metres, the largest SU blade in the size class finishes jobs in fewer passes. Optional patented Performance Cutting Edges increase blade payload by up to 25% compared with standard cutting edges, especially in hard/frozen ground or heavily compacted materials.
Powered by a Cat C15 ACERT engine, the new D8T offers a class-leading 264kW of net horsepower. Moreover, drawbar power is increased by up to 13%, whilst a 10% increase in steering torque, fully automatic transmission and differential steering combine to provide best-in-class steering performance under load.
Caterpillar offer a choice of Cat Connect GRADE technologies to help get work done more efficiently and more accurately. These technologies range from simple grade indicators to full factory-integrated GPS. Likewise, Cat LINK telematics technology helps to take the complexity out of managing job sites – by gathering data generated by equipment, materials, and people, and serving it up in customizable formats.
Like all Cat dozers, the D8T is designed for easy routine maintenance with features such as grouped service points and a ground-level service centre. New cartridge fuel filters, a longer engine oil service interval and standard programmable automatic reversing fan help save maintenance time.
In addition, a new optional Heavy Duty Extended Life undercarriage – Cat HDXL with DuraLink – offers up to 25% more wear life in abrasive conditions, to help reduce maintenance time and overall cost, whilst more robust structures provide added durability to handle the increased weight and productivity.
With an operating weight of just under 40 tonnes, the D8T is available in Standard and Low Ground Pressure (LGP) configurations, as well as purpose-built Waste and Stockpile arrangements. A variety of blades and track shoe types/widths allows each machine to be optimized for performance in specific applications.
