Gulf Construction Online - First compact unit with grade control rolled out

Loaders

SmartGrade 333G ... featuring integrated grade control technology.

First compact unit with grade control rolled out

01 April 2020

John Deere is building upon its industry-leading range of OEM precision grade management products by integrating SmartGrade, its proprietary grade control technology, into the 333G compact track loader. This is the first time a fully integrated grade control technology will be available on compact equipment, the US-based manufacturer claims.

The SmartGrade 333G compact track loader will expand the capabilities of customers working in site development, road-building, landscaping, residential and commercial building operations by enabling them to take on new tasks and larger jobs that require accuracy, says Gregg Zupancic, Product Marketing Manager, skid steers and compact track loaders, John Deere Construction and Forestry.

“By leveraging the latest grade control technology, the SmartGrade 333G machine levels the playing field with contractors running larger fleets. The SmartGrade 333G will increase productivity by helping to automatically complete grading tasks faster with fewer passes and less rework compared to working without grade control technology. Moreover, operators can reap the benefits of using a versatile, more transportable piece of equipment where the grade control system is fully integrated into the machine’s structures and software, delivering precise grading performance while eliminating vulnerable masts and cables,” he explains.

In addition to introducing SmartGrade technology on the 333G, operators will also benefit from the launch of DozerMode, a breakthrough control solution that enables the EH joystick control system to function like a crawler dozer — with the push of a button.

DozerMode is beneficial when operating the machine-equipped, John Deere-designed-and-built, six-way dozer blade attachment that can both cut a grade and spread materials, streamlining attachment needs and set-up time, Zupancic says. The blade is fine-tuned to meet the performance needs of a compact track loader and does not require tools to change to other attachments. It also enhances the versatility of the machine by accurately and automatically cutting or finishing light materials in tight spaces. In conjunction with SmartGrade technology, the blade reduces the amount of operator input, ultimately lowering operator fatigue.

“In a market that becomes more competitive by the day, it’s important we provide our customers with leading-edge equipment,” Zupancic remarks. “Integrating our innovative SmartGrade technology into the 333G compact track loader provides our customers with a solution that is transportable, can fit into tighter spaces and will ultimately reduce labour costs.”