Komatsu Motor Grader Built for Rugged Mine and Quarry Roads

Komatsu Motor Grader Built for Rugged Mine and Quarry Roads

Haul roads in mining and quarrying settings require excellent maintenance because they directly influence operational efficiency and machine availability. Haul trucks moving thousands of tons require tough terrain conditions where bumps and missing sections create problematic operational issues and equipment risks.


Regular maintenance of mining roads requires machine equipment that shares similar toughness to the terrain in which they operate. A grader is the primary machine that smooths the roads of mining for smooth operational activities. The Komatsu motor grader comes to mind when it comes to showcasing the capabilities in mining operations. 


The GD955-7 from Komatsu serves as the answer for the applications that need to be described. The latest mining and quarry-purpose machine features engine-built specifications. For demanding operational requirements while providing both powerful capabilities and safe operator comforts. This machine combines advancements in performance characteristics with durable components. This makes it ready to revolutionize haul road maintenance operations.


Filling the Gap for Large Motor Graders


For years, Komatsu's GD825A-2 worked the heavy-duty haul road grade. But when it left the North American market, it left a gap visibly apparent for jobs that needed a large-frame machine capable of doing serious road work. Although the smaller GD655 was still adequate for lighter loads, a heavy-duty alternative was necessary for quarries and mines.


That is the answer in the GD955-7, one of the newer models built specifically for heavy production, large-scale grading applications. We've filled that larger motor grader niche with the GD955. While we do carry the GD655, we felt we needed to grow and meet the quarry and mining motor grader needs.


Purpose-Built for Harsh Conditions


The GD955-7 represents a substantial enhancement regarding size and powerful mechanical capabilities. The machine comes with a high-tensile steel frame along with a larger gauge structure. Particularly designed for the harsh conditions found in mines and quarries. With an operating weight of 104,323 pounds. It maintains 50% greater mass than its original version, so it easily tackles deep terrain and compacted surfaces.


The machine operates with a Tier 4 Final-compliant Komatsu motor grader engine that generates 426 horsepower. Providing a 48 percent performance improvement from its former model version. Operators gain superior blade penetration together with enhanced downforce and increased operational productivity in each work cycle.


Operations require different levels of power thus the machine comes equipped with a power mode selection system to meet specific demands.


P Mode: Full engine output for maximum performance. This mode enables the machine to save fuel when operators perform light-duty grading tasks. The middle-speed mode enables precise machine speed control, which works best when grading at full throttle. The GD955-7 provides sufficient power together with operational control for completing all job types from rough material reduction to smooth haul road development.


Built for Easy Maintenance


Komatsu motor grader designed the GD955-7 to be both powerful and low-maintenance. One of its most notable features is its bearing-type circle, which cuts downtime related to conventional circle designs by a significant amount. Rather than having to replace wear plates or set circle play every few hundred hours, this new design does away with those tasks altogether.


A typical Graco auto-lube system also assists operators in another way, automatically greasing critical components, no longer having to crawl across the machine before the shift begins. Daily service is also easy with centralized fill and evac ports for essential fluids.


Operator Comfort and Control


The GD955-7 received air suspension operator seats at Komatsu which combine heating and ventilation functions to combat operator fatigue when working long shifts. The end of the armrest contains fingertip controls which replace the conventional front control rack and reduce repeated hand movements.


Additional operator-friendly features include:


Full Visibility and Smart Monitoring


Having proper visibility stands as an essential factor for sites that are busy and full of dirt and dust. The GD955-7 brings the KomVision feature, which operates through five cameras to provide the operator with a panoramic view of their surroundings. Decision support comes through a real-time monitor installed within the cab while the addition of a second screen displays a rear camera feed. 


The machine benefits from fourteen standard LED lamps that illuminate both the working area and the machine along with supplementary LED service and access lighting systems for nighttime safety measures.


The Bottom Line


With its enormous size, increased power, and user-centric design, the Komatsu provides just what mining and quarry operations require: a machine that can work harder, smarter, and longer. From rough terrain to tight U-turns, it provides strength and stability without compromising maneuverability or comfort.