Komatsu Europe introduce the D475A-8 dozer

New 112-tonne machine designed to deliver outstanding productivity and enhanced ride performance

KOMATSU Europe have announced the launch of the 112-tonne D475A-8 crawler dozer, which is said to deliver improved production levels and comes with new features for operator comfort and safety.

The machine’s powerful and economical Komatsu engine, which integrates the latest emission-control technologies and fuel-saving features, offers increased engine power and provides faster reverse climbing speed and reduced cycle times.

Gregory Peeters, product manager at Komatsu Europe, said: ‘The new D475A-8 was designed with the operator in mind, to easily allow full use of the increased engine power and to safely and comfortably improve productivity. It’s a safe, fast and powerful addition to any customer’s fleet.’

The latest KOMTRAX and KOMTRAX Plus telematics and the Komatsu Care maintenance programme offer superior fleet management and support, protect the machine against misuse and guarantee maximum efficiency and uptime.

With an operating weight of 112,600kg, the D475A-8 has a new Komatsu SAA12V140E-7, EU Stage V compliant engine that provides 697kW (934hp) at 2,000 rev/min in forward gear and 777kW (1,040hp) at 2,000 rev/min in reverse.

For greater efficiency during long pushes, the torque converter lock-up clutch can be automatically engaged, allowing engine power to be sent directly to the transmission, increasing ground speed and machine efficiency, for less fuel consumption and faster cycle times.

At any time, the working mode can be set to either ‘P’ mode for maximum production or ‘E’ mode for energy-saving operation. Combined with the automatic or manual gearshift mode, this allows selection of the optimal machine operating conditions for the work at hand.

Likewise, the auto-downshift function, reverse slow mode and track shoe slip control mode are all easily available and can be quickly cancelled. The K-Bogie undercarriage system increases the length of track on ground to further improve machine stability and traction.

The D475A-8 features a new and spacious monocoque cab with a high-rigidity structure and new dampers for the mounts, whilst large glass windows provide optimum visibility of both the blade the and ripper.

A new reclining air-suspension seat reduces vibrations for the operator. Fixed in an angled position (12°), it is heated and ventilated and comes with thicker cushions and adjustable lumbar support.

A large, multi-functional, high-resolution colour LCD monitor gives quick access to the auto-idle shutdown, the operator ID system, the auto ripper return and the auto-blade-tilt functions. It can also display the working area behind the machine and features an energy-saving guide and a new ‘trouble-shooter’ to help minimize downtime.

The layout of the steering console and work equipment lever has been revised and the height of the steering console can be adjusted electronically. The palm command control system (PCCS) is ergonomically designed to provide the operator with a relaxed posture and superior control.

Gear shifting has been simplified with push-buttons, whilst the electronically controlled work equipment joystick allows both the blade and the ripper to move more quickly and accurately than ever before.

Automatic climate-control, a 12V power outlet source and an auxiliary input jack further contribute to a superior working environment for the operator.

A caution indication reminds the operator to engage the seat belt, and a new secondary engine shutdown switch is now located on the side of the machine. The ‘operator sensing system’ engages the travel brake and locks the work equipment when no one is sitting in the operator seat.

The D475A-8’s main frame is said to enhance machine stiffness by 125%, increasing its durability significantly, whilst the new mono-blade linkage ensures less blade sway movement and extends the maintenance intervals of the blade joints.

Heavy-duty steps to an upgraded rear platform with large handrails provide safe access to the rear maintenance points, whilst an optional power ladder, interconnected with the park brake, provides easier and safer access and egress to and from the cab.