Crawler dozers are quite commonly used construction machinery known for their high hourly costs. Operating these machines effectively is necessary due to the significant expense associated with undercarriage wear. That is why we have assembled this guide with the best solutions for increasing bulldozer productivity, debunking common operator misconceptions, and highlighting efficient techniques for optimal performance.
Challenging Operator Expectations: Short, Forceful Cuts
Many operators believe that making long cuts is the key to productivity, expecting to see dirt rolling in front of the blade. However, this approach is often counterproductive. Instead, the focus should be on making short, forceful cuts to minimize undercarriage wear and enhance efficiency.
Front-to-Back or Slot Dozing: The Energy-Efficient Approach
Front-to-back or slot dozing is a technique widely recognized by Caterpillar as one of the most energy-efficient methods. This approach involves starting the process one to two tractor lengths away from the target cut, deviating from the conventional starting point on the opposite side of the area.
Starting the Slot Dozing Process
Begin the slot dozing process by either creating a spoil pile or filling the space by loading the blade as quickly as possible, typically in first gear. It is crucial to aggressively fill the blade to maximize efficiency. When using smaller or medium-sized tractors, shift up to second gear when sliding the load.
Advancing the Slot
After filling the blade, back up one to two tractor lengths from the starting point of the first cut. Reload the blade and slide the load through the opening created by the previous pass. Carry the load and deposit it on the spoil pile. Repeat this technique, advancing the slot with each pass while utilizing a full blade load.
Improving Productivity and Reducing Undercarriage Costs
Implementing front-to-back or slot dozing techniques can significantly increase productivity while minimizing the cost associated with undercarriage wear.
Cutting Technique for Bulldozing Large Amounts of Dirt
To bulldoze large amounts of dirt efficiently, start the process two tractor lengths away from the intended cut’s conclusion. By doing so, the operator can create a spoil pile sooner, increasing productivity. It is essential to move the tractor backward the distance of the preceding push plus two tractor lengths when working from the front to the back. This approach reduces reverse operation, resulting in decreased operating costs.
Second Slot Dozing
To initiate a second slot, move the tractor over and back up approximately two tractor lengths away from the spoil pile. Leave about a third of a blade width between the edge of the blade and the first slot, creating a berm that keeps debris in front of the blade. Remove the berm from the back of the cut once the slots have been cut to grade. Alternate the slots used to advance the berm to maintain level cuts.
Track Maintenance for Optimal Performance
Proper track maintenance is essential to ensure optimal performance and prolong the lifespan of the crawler dozer.
Monitoring Track Chain Sag
Regularly monitor track chain sag to prevent excessive wear. Most tracks with carrier rollers should sag around 2 inches. Measure the sag by coasting to a stop without braking and measuring the distance (A) from the grouser tip to the lowest point of sag. Take the average of the distances from the bottom of each valley on either side of a carrier roller.
Adjusting Chain Tension
Maintain the correct chain tension while the machine is in use. A clean track will tighten up as soon as mud starts packing the sprockets. Regularly check and correct chain tension to optimize performance and minimize wear.
Tree Removal Techniques
Crawler dozers are commonly used for tree removal in various construction and land-clearing projects. Employing efficient techniques can enhance productivity and ensure safe and effective tree removal.
Cutting Techniques for Tree Removal
To facilitate tree removal, it is advisable to make a deep V cut on the side of the tree opposite the desired fall direction. This cut helps to sever some of the larger roots and weaken the tree’s stability. Repeat the V cut on sides two and three while leaving roots on the tree’s side facing the desired fall direction. These remaining roots will act as a hinge during the felling process.
Felling the Tree
Once the tree has been adequately prepared, it is time to bring it down. Raise the cutting edge of the bulldozer to a high angle and apply force to the tree to force it to fall in the desired direction. For larger trees, the use of a modest earth ramp on the pushing side can assist in pushing the tree over.
Managing the Root Ball
After the tree begins to fall, it is important to quickly turn around and move away to avoid the root ball. In case the tree does not fall entirely, push it again from underneath the root ball to complete the removal process.
Operating crawler dozers properly without making any mistakes is key if you want to maximize productivity and minimize costs. By adopting techniques such as front-to-back or slot dozing, operators can optimize efficiency, reduce undercarriage wear, and achieve significant time savings. Also, proper track maintenance and implementing efficient tree removal techniques contribute to overall operational success. By following these guidelines, construction professionals can see an improvement in the performance of crawler dozers and improve project outcomes.