New-generation C-Series dozers introduced at Bauma 2013
New Holland used the recent Bauma exhibition to launch their new C-Series dozers. The company have extending the offering with an additional model at the low end of the range, which now offers three models ranging from 13 to 20 tons. Redesigned from the ground up, the new C Series makes a complete break from the previous generation to offer new features that will allow operators to work faster and save fuel.
The three models of the new C Series feature New Holland’s SCR technology, which delivers a 10.5% fuel saving compared to the previous generation, based on hourly fuel consumption. The 6.7-litre FPT Industrial engine delivers an incremental power of 9% for the D125C and D180C and 16% for the D150C. As a result, the engine is more reactive to load changes and the torque growth is higher to avoid big engine rev/min drops. The combined effect of New Holland’s SCR technology and the performance delivered by the powerful engine can drive the new models’ efficiency up to 19%.
The D150C and D180C feature a new V-shaped cooling package that increases the cooling surface for better efficiency and easier radiator cleaning. This solution, together with the hydraulic reversible fan, reduces the radiator cleaning intervals. It also cuts fuel consumption, as the oil flow is strictly linked to the cooling demand. The easy maintenance is further helped by the reversing intervals that can be set on the on-board computer or engaged manually.
The three C-Series models now feature a hydrostatic transmission that delivers best-in-class drawbar pull of 213kN for the D125C, 311kN for the D150C and 372kN for the D180C. The entire system has been redesigned with a new layout that ensures perfect cooling even in the hottest climate. With the new layout the oil is delivered directly to radiators instead of the tank, which now operates as a reserve of cooled fluid to further improve performance (the air-to-boil level has been increased by 8% from 46 degrees C to 50 degrees C).
The hydrostatic transmission ensures a constant power transfer under load and the tracks’ counter-rotation allows the machine to turn easily in tight spaces.
The reversing setting can be changed electronically, so that the operator can choose between soft, medium and aggressive reversing modes on the on-board computer, for greater comfort and productivity. With the exclusive Proportional Dozer Control (PDC) mode, once the operator sets the maximum allowed speed, he can move the joystick forward or backward to increase or reduce speed continuously, achieving greater accuracy in fine grading applications.
The new cab, which is 10cm further forward than in the previous generation, provides improved visibility on the blade and ensures better dozer balance. The new electro-hydraulic joystick offers new features to deliver a much-improved levelling performance and complete integration with the most widespread GPS and laser-guidance systems for high precision. The three models are available from the factory with a pre-installation kit for Topcon, Trimble and Leica electronic blade controls.
The new blade control joystick features several automatic functions, such as the ‘shaking mode’ that automatically shakes the blade for faster cleaning and the ‘grading mode’ that when engaged reduces blade speed by 50% for more accurate operation or enables the GPS control when one is installed. The blade reaction also has three possible settings, similarly to the hydrostatic transmission: soft for fine levelling, medium for most applications, and fast for heavy dozing when it’s needed to prevent the engine from stalling. The blade control and hydrostatic functions are easily engaged with two buttons close together on the dashboard, so there are no levers that can get in the way of cab accessibility.
New Holland say that operator comfort is enhanced by the quietest cab in the industry, with just 76dBA inside the cab.
The chassis has been redesigned to enhance reliability and provide better accessibility to components. The blade cylinder geometry has been optimized to deliver faster reaction and higher pushing force. The new box section design of the PAT frame is exceptionally strong and prevents twisting when working with the blade at an angle. In bulldozer configuration, the patented Equistatic device distributes the effort equally on the two push beams independently of the blade’s tilting, so that the wear of the frame and related components is reduced.
When working in abrasive conditions, the exclusive Advanced Track Life (ATL) tracks can be fitted as they last twice as long as standard lubricated tracks. The system consists of two coaxial bushes where the external one is free to rotate when in contact with the sprocket, reducing wear caused by friction. The sprocket has been modified with fewer teeth but with 40% more material under the tooth root area that triples the wear material between the teeth.
The new frame design minimizes the time needed for the daily checks. All the main service points are within easy reach and the greasing points are grouped. Three belly plates are located on the lower part of the machine and a fourth wide one in the rear for oil replacement or extraordinary transmission work. The transmission can be reached from the cab through a dedicated door. All the hydraulic pressure, filters and electric components checks can be carried out from the ground simply by opening the cab’s two lateral hoods.
The undercarriage covers have been designed with a 49 degree angle to improve the self-cleaning effect when working in muddy conditions, reducing maintenance time for periodical machine cleaning.
New options include: a three-shank ripper, dedicated protection and winches for forestry applications, or front and rear tow hooks for standard applications.
