Top 10 tips for improving dozer GET life

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1. MATCH GET TO CONDITIONS

Different material types wear GET differently.Whether you’re working in iron ore, hard rock, clay,or overburden, selecting the right combination ofcutting edges, end bits, and ripper boots is critical.

Work with your supplier to tailor GET specifications to the ground you’re actually working, not just what’s available in stock.

2. USE HEAVY DUTY OR HARDFACED GET

For extreme abrasion zones, such as in hard rock or when pushing shot rock piles, consider tungsten carbide-embedded or extra-thick wear solutions.

While the upfront cost is higher, these options often provide 2–3 times the wear life and reduce overall downtime.

3. FLIP CENTRE BLADES

To double your standard centre edge wear life, hardface the centre edges and flip or rotate them. This will ensure twice the hours and reduce the $/h cost of your edges.

The key is to mirror the wear pattern, so there is equal hardfacing coverage on both the top and the bottom of the blades.

4. USE BEST PRACTICE DOZING TECHNIQUES

Operators are your first line of defence in extending GET life. Avoid excessive slot dozing, over-angling the blade, or high-speed reverse which accelerates wear.

Encourage techniques like straight pushing, maintaining correct blade tilt, and limiting excessive track spin.

5. REPLACE GET AT THE RIGHT TIME

Changing dozer GET before they are completely worn out is crucial for maintaining optimal machine performance, preventing damage, and ensuring safety.

Worn-out GET can lead to reduced productivity, increased fuel consumption, and potential damage to other machine components, ultimately resulting in higher operating costs and downtime.

6. MONITOR AND ADJUST BLADE TILT AND PITCH

Improper blade tilt (front-to-back angle) or pitch (side-to-side) increases uneven wear on cutting edges. Regularly check blade angles, especially on machines where operators frequently adjust settings to ensure optimal ground engagement
and even wear distribution.

Source: Cat.com. Available at: https://www.cat.com/en_US/articles/for-owners/dozing-operating-tips.html (Accessed: June 16, 2025).

7. INSPECT GET DAILY AND TRACK WEAR PROGRESSIVELY

GET wear isn’t always linear. Daily visual inspections and weekly wear measurements help detect abnormal wear early. Use a simple wear log or digital monitoring system to compare wear rates and predict changeout timing with greater accuracy.

Source: vidyatec.com. Available at: https://vidyatec.com/blog/driving-safety-in-mining-through-risk-based-inspections-in-mining/ (Accessed: June 16, 2025).

8. TIGHTEN BOLTS AND HARDWARE OFTEN

Loose bolts accelerate wear by allowing GET components to vibrate or shift, increasing breakage risk.

Check torque specs regularly, especially after a fresh install and keep an eye out for elongated bolt holes or cracking near edges.

9. SELECT THE RIGHT WEAR PATTERN

We are a huge advocate for hardfacing but it needs to also fit in with the maintenance schedule and be applied to only the right areas.

With dozer GET there are several options, hardfacing patterns will depend on several factors:

  • Cost v wear life
  • Centre edge flipping strategy (flip or don’t flip)
  • End bit wear life compared to centre edges
  • Maintenance schedule (wear life must fit)
  • Bolt protection (see below design example)

10. PARTNER WITH A PROACTIVE GET SUPPLIER

A good GET supplier should offer more than just stock, they should provide site visits, wear tracking support, trial reporting, and cost-per-hour analysis.

Choose suppliers who understand mining applications and can recommend tailored solutions that align with your fleet goals.

Contact us today:

Web – www.plasmawearparts.com.au
Email – sales@plasmawearparts.com.au
Mobile – 0450 372 229

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