CATERPILLAR, a leading international manufacturer of construction and mining equipment, work tools, diesel and natural gas engines and industrial gas turbines, has introduced the new Fusion wheel loader quick coupler, based on a patented design.

The Cat Fusion wheel loader coupler system, developed by the company’s subsidiary Caterpillar Work Tools, pulls the coupler and work tool closer to the wheel loader for machine performance comparable to pin-on, with all the versatility and flexibility of a coupler. It helps move the centre of gravity closer to the machine, yet the coupler enables the loader to conveniently pick up and use a wide range of work tools.
“Fusion is designed for Caterpillar wheel loader models ranging from the 938H to the 972H, including the IT38 and IT62. The unique, single interface allows many machines to share the same work tools – a cost-reducing system for multi-loader fleets,” says Dave Becktel, commercial manager for Caterpillar Work Tools.
Fusion also gives the operator excellent sight lines to the work tool, load and target location. The new, open coupler frame design makes it easier than ever before to engage and disengage attachments, he says. Offset tines and other design attributes of Fusion pallet forks work in conjunction with the Fusion coupler to increase visibility of the tines at ground- and truck-bed height for confident and efficient handling of palletised loads.
“The Fusion coupler system ensures a tight, rattle-free fit for solid work tool control and high productivity. Eliminating play also delivers maximum durability and reliability by reducing wear on the coupler/tool bearing surfaces. The design uses wedges to pull the attachment tight to the machine in two directions. Constant hydraulic pressure on the coupler wedges compensates for any wear,” he says.
According to Caterpillar Work Tools, the new quick coupler system’s benefits include:
• Improved machine performance — the interface provides coupler flexibility with performance virtually identical to pin-on;
• Improved visibility — the open coupler design and re-designed forks provide visibility to the tine tip at ground and truck heights;
• Dual-action locking mechanism — the wedge-based locking action holds the work tool tight. Tools don’t rattle and wear is almost entirely eliminated. The interface stays tight even with many thousands of hours on the clock;
• Universal interface — The Fusion coupler promotes work tool interchangeability across machines. This offers new levels of “on-site” interchangeability and simplified inventory management for large fleets and rental fleets; and
• Patented design.
The Caterpillar Fusion coupler system includes a full line of buckets, forks, material handling arms, hydraulic kits and retrofit- adapters and hooks.
Caterpillar supports its work tools with a comprehensive range of pre- and after-sales services.