Dozers

A dozer, short for bulldozer, is a heavy construction machine equipped with a front-mounted blade used to push large amounts of earth, rubble, or other material. Most dozers are tracked and have a powerful diesel engine that drives the tracks, which provide stability and traction on uneven surfaces, though wheel-type dozers exist for lighter tasks and higher speed. The blade can be adjusted hydraulically to push material, distribute it, or grade surfaces. Common blade configurations include straight blades (S-blade) for precise pushing, and universal or U-blades for greater capacity; some blades can tilt, angle, or be raised and lowered. A ripper mounted on the rear or under the chassis can break up hard ground.

They are used in construction, mining, road building, land clearing, forestry, and disaster response. Dozers come in a range of sizes from compact tractors to large heavy machines. Operation requires trained personnel; safety concerns include rollover risk on slopes, visibility, and maintenance requirements; many models include rollover protection cab, efficient hydraulics, and advanced telematics.

The concept originated in the early 20th century with developments by Holt Manufacturing Company (later Caterpillar) and other early manufacturers; the term bulldozer dates from the aggressive pushing action of the blade. Modern dozers are widely produced by Caterpillar, Komatsu, Deere, Case, and others.