New Komatsu D475A-8 mining dozer features re-engineered mainframe, delivers higher levels of production
On mining sites, support machines like dozers can directly impact productivity by keeping blasting, loading and dumping areas clean, enabling loading and hauling equipment to work more efficiently. If your operation needs a versatile mining dozer that can go from ripping solid rock to cleaning up around a dragline, the new Komatsu D475A-8 may be the right fit for you.
Customer Feedback proven valuable
Using extensive customer feedback, Komatsu re-engineered the D475A-8 mainframe to target twice the life of previous models — now 60,000-plus hours — and withstand multiple rebuild/overhaul cycles. Its low center of gravity provides machine stability, and long and consistent track on ground length offers more traction, pushing power, ripping efficiency and less shoe slippage. Track shoe slip control automatically controls engine speed and minimizes slip during ripping.
Added horsepower (890 net hp forward, 968 net hp reverse at 2,000 rpm) can help provide faster ground speeds, shorter cycle times and more production per hour. The D475A-8’s high horsepower in reverse means the lock-up converter stays engaged more frequently, allowing significantly higher levels of production, especially when pushing down slopes.
“Automatic gearshift mode allows the powertrain to automatically engage the torque converter lockup clutch,” said Komatu’s Joseph Sollitt, senior product manager. “Locking up the torque converter reduces parasitic losses within the converter and transmits engine power directly to the transmission, increasing ground speed. That achieves efficiencies comparable to a direct drive and decreases fuel consumption up to 10% compared to manual gearshift operation.”
Blade increases efficiency
Operators can boost efficiency by utilizing blade auto-pitch mode, which is designed to increase dozing efficiency while reducing the amount of operator input required. The all-new blade support structure is designed to significantly reduce blade side sway. The dozer also has enhanced visibility to the blade.
Improvements to the cab make the D475A-8 more comfortable to operate throughout long shifts. Ergonomically placed touch points and palm control joysticks make operation easier. Additional comfort features include improved visibility to the ripper shank, a rearview monitoring system and a heated, ventilated air-suspension seat. The redesigned undercarriage reduces shock and vibrations when the dozer travels over rough terrain.
“It is engineered to minimize downtime,” Sollitt noted. “Maintenance is efficient with centralized grease points, a ground-level fluid service center, and battery and starter isolators with lockout/tagout functionality.”
