Working efficiently is the key to profitability when it comes to earthmoving applications. That is why GPS-based grade control systems have become vital components of an equipment fleet. The early bolt-on systems brought a new level of efficiency to jobsites with its masts and cables as operators were able to hit their grades in fewer passes and reduce over digging.  Grade-control systems made an evolutionary leap in the late 2010s as manufacturers began integrating their dozers – and eventually excavators – with the technology. This move once again revolutionized how jobsites operated and increased performance, safety, and efficiency.  Today, machine owners are faced with the question of purchasing new equipment with integrated systems or continuing to use aftermarket systems. Here are some things to consider when making that decision:   Will competing systems work together? You have options when it comes to GPS technology. Most companies have invested in GPS techno...

Most powerful hydrostatic transmission (HST) dozer in its size class; standard, low ground pressure or with intelligent Machine Control 2.0 Worried that a mid-size dozer won’t have enough power for your bigger jobs? Komatsu’s D71EX/PX-24 — with the most powerful hydrostatic transmission (HST) dozer in its size class — is effective at grading, pushing, side-cutting and work on soft ground, giving you the flexibility to move from production to finishing with a single machine. Pushing with 237 HP, Komatsu’s largest HST dozer [49,824 lbs.- 50,927 lbs. (22,600 kg - 23,100 kg)] helps operators maintain ground speed while operating under heavy loads in H mode. Its distinctive slant nose design offers outstanding visibility to the cutting edges and excellent balance and maneuverability with a super-slant nose cab-forward design. Offering precision on the job site, from golf course construction to highway projects, the D71-24 is an all-around crawler dozer. It is equally adept at precise, high-...

Today, most large equipment manufacturers offer telematic systems to help you monitor important data on your machines. These systems are great tools that help you boost productivity. But you are maximizing the effectiveness of your system? Tracking operation hours, idle time, and location are the most common uses for telematic systems; but utilizing the technology and data these systems provide in other ways can produce even more results. Diagnostic Check-ups If a machine is not running, it is costing you money. If there was a way to identify a lingering issue with a machine before it became a major issue, that would be a very useful. Most telematic systems can do this. Contact your manufacturer to see if their system can be set up to send alerts if any diagnostic codes are occurring in your machine. This way you can know immediately if something need addressed before it is too late. Training It is no secret that finding skilled and qualified operators is a challenge for everyone in th...