The GD955-7 is built specifically for mining operations, with a big focus on productivity thanks to its blade up design allowing for more efficient ground penetration.
Michael Hall, Komatsu’s National Mining Product Manager, says the high spec grader has been hotly anticipated by customers for some time.
"The GD955-7 is a ground-up designed mining grader. It can grade 33% more area per hour than the previous model, with a standard 5.5m blade, or an optional 6.1m blade width for even more productivity. It also has the highest blade downforce in class and the highest engine power in class. It’s a durable machine designed for high-power grading.
“With large haul trucks on mining sites, graders need to be larger and be more productive to support them. The GD955 is well matched to larger haul trucks anywhere from 90 to over 240 tonnes, making it a great addition to mining fleets,” Michael says.
The GD955 comes standard with Komatsu’s 360° camera system, KomVision, which houses a 5-camera system to provide a view around the vehicle using the KomVision monitor, with an additional rear view monitor for reversing and ripping operation.
“KomVision increases visibility for operators so they can get a full view of activity around the grader. The monitor informs them if another machine is approaching or in their line of movement, a great safety feature for busy mine sites,” Michael says.
“The GD955-7 is also 50% heavier than the previous model, meaning it can more easily grade hard-packed road surfaces and take on more demanding jobs.
A number of customers had the opportunity to visit Komatsu’s Ibaraki Plant in Japan earlier this year to see where the grader was manufactured and get a sneak peek before it landed in Australia. “We had really good feedback from the customers who joined us, and plan to start delivering this new model to customers come December,” Michael says.
