The Caterpillar D-11 series of tracked-type tractors are among the largest conventional bulldozers in the world, second to Komatsu D575.

The D11, with 698 kW (935 hp) of gross power and an operating weight of 104 tons, is in the upper end of Caterpillar's track-type tractors, which range in size from the D3 57 kW (77 hp), 8 tons, to the D11 698 kW (935 hp), 104 tons.

They are primarily used for moving large quantities of material (dirt, rock, aggregate, etc.) short distances in relatively confined places. For example, they are often used in quarries. The size, price, power and weight of the larger track-type tractors dictate that they are used primarily for major projects. The D11 is most commonly found in use in forestry, mining, and quarry operations.

The D-11s are also highly favored for their tremendous power and their ability to rip the earth. They are often used for agricultural and rock ripping. The ripper is the long claw-like device on the back of the tractor. Rippers can come singly (single shank) or in groups or two or more (multi shank rippers). Usually, a single shank is preferred for heavy ripping.

Ripping rock allows the ground surface rock to be broken into small, easy to handle and transport rubble which can then be removed so that grading can take place.

Agricultural ripping allows rocky or very hard earth to be broken up so that otherwise unariable land can be put to use in agricultural applications. For example, much of the very best land in the California wine country consists of old lava flows. Put the D-11 to work and the lava is shattered allowing practical agriculture for the wine industry. In another example, hard earth can be ripped and decompacted to allow the planting of orchards which otherwise could not grow on the land.

The dozer blade on front of the tractor usually comes in 3 varieties:

1. A Straight Blade ("S-Blade") which is short and has no lateral curve, no side wings, and can be used for fine grading.
2. A Universal Blade ("U-Blade") which is tall and very curved, and has large side wings to carry more material.
3. A "S-U" combination blade which is shorter, has less curvature, and smaller side wings.

The nearest direct competitor to the Cat D-11 is the Komatsu D-475. The Cat can be distinguished from the Komatsu by the "High Trac" triangular shaped caterpillar track.

See also

• Bulldozer
• Caterpillar D9
• Caterpillar D6
• Caterpillar Inc.
• Civil Engineering
• Engineering Vehicles
• Benjamin_Holt
• Tractor

External links

• Caterpillar Tractor Company - Official Website
• Caterpillar D11R, CAT website

• Review on the CAT D11N