Improved design for unrivalled dozing performance
01/08/2006
The new D155AX-6 crawler dozer from Komatsu incorporates a number of innovative design and performance enhancements. A new blade concept and ripper design, powertrain improvements and the move to a K-bogie undercarriage combine to deliver a unique dozer with unique features. As a result the D155AX-6 dozer offers overall efficiency gains, delivering fuel and productivity benefits to all applications from dozing and grading right through to ripping.
An obvious and important change is the new Sigma Dozer® blade, which will have an impact on all existing blade designs. Operating like a V-shape bucket for the best penetration, the Sigma Dozer® blade also provides a perfect flat edge for grading performance. The convex figure of this blade concept delivers a much higher blade fill factor and provides an increased capacity of 9.4 m3. Rolling characteristics have also been improved, with the blade’s lateral edges helping to push the rolling material continuously towards the centre. Compared to a normal Semi U blade, the result is a 15% increase in dozing productivity.
Powertrain enhancements on the D155AX-6 are key to the overall performance improvement. The new dozer is powered by the 320 hp / 1900 rpm SAA6D140E engine, which incorporates advanced High Pressure Common Rail (HPCR) injection and Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) systems. As part of Komatsu’s ECOT3 family, the engine is fully compliant with EU Stage IIIA emissions regulations.
An automatic transmission with a fully automated lock-up torque converter ensures the D155AX-6 delivers the right balance between drive and torque at all times. Constant monitoring of torque requirements lets the system either engage the torque converter when most torque is needed or automatically lock-up the torque converter and supply 100% direct drive, particularly useful during less demanding working conditions.
Combining the benefits of the fully automated lock-up torque converter with the continuous power transfer of the automatic transmission reduces fuel consumption by up to 10%. The enhanced powertrain also improves operator comfort by smoothly applying power and reducing cabin noise levels.
Adding to the durability of the D155AX-6 is the switch to the proven K-bogie undercarriage system, as used on large Komatsu dozers. Komatsu’s K-bogie design ensures track rollers are always in contact with track links, helping reduce the impact load on undercarriage components. With this undercarriage a D155AX-6 delivers 18% more track length in contact with the ground compared to the D155AX-5. The K-bogie system and longer contact length mean higher operating stability, longer component life and more powerful traction transfer as well as greater ride comfort through reduced vibration and shock on rough terrain. K-bogie undercarriage systems have also demonstrated improved grading performance.
Another obvious change is the ripper. The D155AX-6 continues to use Komatsu’s patented ripping system however the actual design is significantly different. By reducing the number of hydraulic cylinders to two single cylinders, the new design offers improved ripping visibility without losing any ripper penetration or pry-out force. In addition, the ripper point movement has been significantly increased, simplifying the task of digging out large boulders.
The D155AX-6 also features a new cab design with integrated Falling Object Protection Structure (FOPS) and Roll-Over Protection Structure (ROPS) for outstanding safety and visibility levels. It offers unbeatable operator comfort with a fully adjustable suspension seat and joysticks plus an ultra-quiet operating noise level of just 78 dB at the driver’s ear. Additionally, a large, multi-lingual LCD monitor provides the driver with easy access to a wealth of operating information.
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