Cat Introduces D11 XE Electric Drive Dozer
Caterpillar has added an electric-drive model to its large dozer lineup with the Cat D11 XE. Designed for mining applications, the dozer uses an electric drivetrain instead of a mechanical drive. The system provides up to 10% more power to the ground, with hourly production rates 5% to 10% above those of the next-generation Cat D11.
The D11 XE reduces fuel consumption by up to 25% per unit of material moved, with greenhouse gas emissions down 20% to 25%.
The electric-drive system reduces the number of moving parts by 60% compared with a mechanical drive. The electric drivetrain operates without the bevel gear found in mechanical designs. Power flows from the engine to a generator, then through an inverter to two motors that power the tracks.
Scheduled repairs for the engine, final drives and hydraulic systems move to 18,000 hours from the previous 15,000-hour mark, matching the electric drive’s 18,000-hour rebuild centerline. Over the D11 XE’s service life, operators can reach similar total operating hours with one fewer rebuild than the D11. The electric-drive generator and motors are built to remain in service for two machine lifetimes, requiring only rebearing and resealing.
Engine and Design Updates
The D11 XE uses a Cat C32B engine with a lower high-idle speed that can extend the time between rebuilds by up to 20% compared with the D11.
The machine also features a new radiator guard and updates to the case and frame. The suspended undercarriage reduces shock-load transfer to the undercarriage by up to 50%. Larger lift-cylinder trunnion bearings support easier service, while updated pin joints use replaceable bearings. The ripper, blade and push-arm trunnions no longer require line boring, and their bearing inserts can be replaced more easily.
The D11 XE shares up to 85% of its parts with the D11 and retains its modular design for major components.
Automation and Grade Control
Several operator-assist and automation systems are available for the D11 XE.
AutoCarry controls the blade during the carry segment and helps limit track slippage. The system can increase productivity by up to 15%.
The 3D Grade Control system uses two GNSS antennas mounted to the ROPS and blade-mounted inertial measurement unit sensors to determine cutting-edge position without blade-mounted masts or cables.
Automated Blade Assist works with the dozer’s dual-tilt capability to automatically position the blade to specific pitch positions. Automatic ripper control adjusts engine speed and ripper depth automatically based on operating conditions.
Cat MineStar solutions are available for the D11 XE. Command for dozing gives operators several ways to manage machine operation remotely, including semi-autonomous control. Terrain combines automated features with blade overcut protection to help limit fuel consumption and material rehandling.
Terrain for grading helps operators assess bench heights, monitor cycle times and track material volumes for cutting and filling.
Contact your local Cat dealer for more information on the Cat D11 XE Electric Drive Dozer.
