Blackwell modifies new Komatsu dozers to operate scraper boxes
03/09/2002

The Earthmoving Division of C.A. Blackwell (Contracts) has recently taken delivery of a pair of Komatsu D155AX-5 dozers to tow scraper boxes. The 38.7 tonne machines join a total plant holding of some 250 major pieces, of which approximately 25% carry the Komatsu name.

Blackwell operates a fleet of 13 towed scraper boxes which have traditionally been controlled via winches. However, the company is so convinced there is still a place for them on its earthmoving contracts, the decision was taken to develop a new, hydraulically controlled system utilising the Komatsu D155's. The system has been designed and installed by Blackwell in close cooperation with Komatsu's UK dealer, Marubeni-Komatsu of Redditch.

Blackwell's plant manager Phil Walton comments: "The system has proved to work very successfully and, for maximum versatility, we can very quickly drop the box and re-fit the blade should we need to use the machine as a conventional dozer. We were also very pleased that Marubeni was able to deliver the machines bang on time and provide all the necessary technical assistance to enable us to carry out the necessary modifications."

C.A. Blackwell (Contracts) of Earls Colne in Essex, which traces its history back to 1956, claims to be the largest independent earthmover in the UK, currently moving between 15 and 18 million cu m of material every year on contracts across the country.

Komatsu's latest D155AX-5 model is powered by a 6-cylinder turbocharged Komatsu diesel engine developing 231 kW (310 hp) @ 1900 rpm. The machine features, amongst many other improvements, a unique hydrostatic steering system which ensures constant drive to both tracks under all ground conditions.

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