THE latest addition to the Cat motor grader family has been developed to meet a wide range of critical customer requirements and is built with sustainability enhancements.

Caterpillar’s new line of K Series motor graders consisting of four models – 120K, 12K, 140K and 160K – which will replace the H Series standard version, has been developed to specifically meet the unique needs of lesser-regulated markets while maintaining quality standards, reliability and value established by Cat motor graders.
“Integrating numerous technological advances, the new models deliver innovative features, increased productivity, improved serviceability and compliance with Stage II emissions requirements,” says a spokesman for Caterpillar.
The K Series will build on the strong H Series legacy, which has been the industry standard in a variety of heavy construction, mining, road building and governmental applications.
Features such as Cat Acert engines, AccuGrade-ready option, improved power management strategy and advanced monitoring capability, enable the customer to increase production and directly impact the bottom line, the spokesman adds.
The K Series models are compliant with European Stage II (US EPA Tier 2) emissions requirements. “All four models are equipped with the Cat C7 Acert engine, boasting a 7.2-litre displacement. This breakthrough technology reduces combustion temperatures and emissions by incorporating an advanced air intake system with an electronically-controlled fuel system. The result is more complete fuel burn and reduced emissions while simultaneously enhancing engine performance,” the spokesman explains.
Thanks to the Acert engine, the K Series also offers potential improvements in productivity as compared to the H Series. They deliver a torque increase of eight to 10 per cent depending on application. Customised torque curves increase peak torque for improved lugging performance and responsiveness. The torque rise in K Series is 50 per cent, he says.
The K Series also offers automated machine control and guidance with the availability of the AccuGrade ready option (ARO). This option provides the electrical harnesses, cab switches, and mounting hardware necessary to simplify installation of the AccuGrade grade control system.

Better power management
Standard on all models, the variable horsepower (VHP) feature increases machine productivity by matching power to ground speeds. In the lower gears where the machine is traction-limited, engine horsepower is automatically reduced. This helps reduce fuel consumption and tyre slippage, which results in lower owning and operating costs.
In line with Caterpillar’s proactive approach to developing machines that meet or exceed safety standards, the K Series feature:
• Elevated and perforated non-skid steel tandem walkways, which provide sturdy platform access to tandems;
• Electrical disconnect switch with tag-out lock out latch, which shuts off battery power to prevent accidental starting of the machine; and
• Engine shut-off switch, a ground level access switch which allows machine shutdown in case of emergency.
Another area of focus during the development of the K Series was to ensure an environmentally responsible design. In addition to the reduced emissions, the K Series features conveniently located ecology drains that help avoid spills during fluid changes and standard engine doors that reduce the sound level.
The K Series operator station was designed with comfort, convenience and visibility in mind. Low effort on the pedals, hydraulic controls, and transmission shifter reduce operator strain and fatigue while excellent visibility to the front wheels, moldboard and rear of the machine allows operators to work with greater confidence and efficiency.
Some of the other benefits include extended service intervals and grouped service points reduce machine downtime and owning and operating costs for the K Series. The machine also retains the Cat standard lever arrangement that is designed to allow ease of multi-function control.