Komatsu’s GD955-7 motor grader has been built to tackle the toughest Australian mining conditions.
Komatsu has raised the bar with the launch of its GD955-7 motor grader. This machine combines power, and toughness to meet the unique challenges of Australia’s mining sector.
With an operating weight of 46,740kg and delivering a formidable 426 horsepower from a Komatsu SAA6D140E engine, the GD955-7 is engineered for serious work.
“The GD955-7 matches the demands of large mining operations and large off-road haul trucks to deliver higher productivity, reduced operating costs and extended component life in even the most rugged environments,” Komatsu said.
A standout feature is its productivity advantages, made possible by its high horsepower, increased operating weight, and 5.5m moldboard as standard, with an optional 6.1m blade.
Compared with the previous GD825A-2 model, the GD955-7 can grade more efficiently and productively than its predecessor, due to its enhanced power and wider working range.
“Productivity and durability have been front of mind in the GD955-7’s development,” Komatsu said.
“With high horsepower, a longer wheelbase, and a larger standard blade, the GD955-7 can grade between 33 per cent (with 5.5m blade) and 46 per cent (with 6.1m blade) more area per hour than the GD825A-2.”
The 50 per cent increase in operating weight means the GD955-7 can easily grade a hard-packed road surface.
In addition, the expanded tread and increased axle weight keeps work stable in various conditions.
The GD955-7 features a lock-up torque converter transmission with dual auto and manual modes. This enables the machine to shift seamlessly between torque converter drive for smooth control and direct drive for optimal efficiency.
Operation in auto mode prevents engine stall during grading should the grader encounter unexpected high load grading conditions.
The torque converter not only enhances controllability during tough grading tasks but also reduces shift shock, contributing to a smoother operating experience.
An articulate auto-centre return system, fingertip blade controls, palm steer and lever combination help to ensure operators can work comfortably and confidently in any terrain. A conventional steering wheel is also provided for increased control during high-speed tramming.
Komatsu has gone to great lengths to improve the operator environment in the GD955-7. Inside the ROPS (roll-over protective structure)/FOPS (falling object protective structure) cab, operators will find an ergonomically designed console with fingertip controls, reduced arm movement, and improved visibility from a wide, hexagonal layout.
A high-comfort operator seat, electric height-adjustable control consoles, low interior noise levels (75 decibels), and powerful air-conditioning contribute to a safer, more productive workspace.
Added conveniences such as a lunchbox tray, multiple power outlets, a mobile phone holder, and a seven-inch colour LCD monitor with maintenance and operation data further enhance the operational interface experience.
Komatsu’s KomVision offers a bird’s eye view of the work area, providing high visibility to blind spots in the grader’s working vicinity.
The GD955-7 incorporates several maintenance features to limit downtime. These include a bearing type circle that eliminates the need for frequent circle play adjustments, and an automatic greasing system that reduces manual servicing. Servicing is made easier with ground-level access to major service points, including refuelling and drain ports for engine, hydraulic, and transmission fluids.
Centralised filters and long oil change intervals (up to 2000 hours for hydraulic oil) help to further streamline routine maintenance and boost machine availability.
Modularity has been incorporated into the major powertrain components, resulting in reduced downtime during major component change intervals.
The GD955-7 also includes Komatsu’s Komtrax Plus system, which remotely monitors machine health and performance, allowing fleet managers to access vital data such as fuel consumption, engine hours, and maintenance intervals from anywhere. This helps to optimise equipment utilisation and reduce operating costs.
Durability is core to the GD955-7’s design, with its redesigned front and rear frames – constructed with high-tensile steel plates and optimised powertrain layouts – delivering a frame life double that of its predecessor.
Komatsu has engineered this machine to handle the extreme heat, dust and terrain of remote Australian sites, all while maintaining peak performance.
The GD955-7 includes intelligent fuel management modes, allowing operators to choose between productivity, economy, or middle-speed mode to suit specific tasks. These modes are designed to help extend component life, reduce tyre wear and lower fuel consumption based on site conditions and operational demands.
Backed by Komatsu’s national support network, customers receive expert guidance from machine selection through to ongoing product support.
With the GD955-7, Komatsu has delivered a production grader to meet the growing demands of Australian mining operations.
This feature appeared in the July 2025 issue of Australian Mining.