Three companies launch dozers

Caterpillar released the 50kW 7.7t D3G, 60kW 8.2t D4G and 67kW 9.27t D5G into the European market. They have blade capacities from 1.44 to 2.34 m 3 and will be released here this year.

Powered by an EU stage II emissions-compliant Cat 3046 diesel engine, it is turbocharged on the two smaller models for the first time.

Additional standard equipment includes two heavy-duty 12-volt 900 CCA batteries, a turbine-type precleaner, a 110-amp alternator, an air intake heater for easier cold-weather starting, a new hexagon-shaped G-series cab and a fully adjustable operator's seat.

All three feature a proven hydrostatic transmission that provides full power turn capability, stepless speed range and excellent maneuverability. An improved transmission control simplifies their operation and gives smooth, precise control. Another new feature allows the operator to use faster reverse speeds.

An optional machine security system inhibits unauthorised machine use by immobilising vital electrical circuits. Machine owners can set time parameters for machine use and outside those times, a special key is needed to start the machine.

Swiss firm Frutiger , maker of the Scraperdozer for half a century, released a new 15m 3 model called the Tiger SR3000 after four years development. These machines are often utilised for land reclamation and there are several earlier models in Australia.

With a bucket capacity of 15m 3 it is the largest Scrapedozer and is powered by a 350kw V8 Mercedes Benz engine. Its high speed of 20 km/h, optimal shock-absorbency of the bucket and the patented HSTS hydraulic steering system amount, to a performance increase of more than 50% compared to the highest performing Scrapedozer to date.

The company claims that in moving earth from 50 to 500m, it is more economical than other methods. One machine and one man can move up to 3000m 3 a day. Liebherr released its PR 724 PR 734 Litronics as part of its series four dozer range presented at Intermat last year.

They feature the new fourth generation Litronic system that regulates and monitors all components of the redesigned hydrostatic drive and keeps fuel consumption down to the lowest possible level.