A new generation of wheel loaders from Caterpillar offering increased customer value by being more productive, more efficient, and more comfortable to operate has been introduced recently in the region.
Caterpillar dealers for the Gulf countries, Mohamed Abdulrahman Al Bahar and Oasis Trading & Equipment Company, have launched five new models - Cat 980, 972, 966, 962 and 950 G Series II models in the 137 to 232 kW class.
The new models are also said to be easier to maintain and meet EU Stage II emissions regulations.
According to a spokesman for UAE-based Mohamed Abdulrahman Al Bahar, the key features of the new models include:
Electronically-controlled Cat diesel engine, which delivers more power, faster response and improved fuel economy. The new cooling system has hydraulically-driven, electronically-controlled, variable speed fan that improves engine efficiency and reduces noise levels;
Electronically-controlled automatic transmission, which offers smooth, consistent shifting, for better productivity and operator comfort. The optional free wheel stator torque converter boosts power train efficiency, particularly in load-and-carry applications.
Integrated braking system, which increases productivity and lowers operating costs by integrating transmission downshift and neutraliser controls, optimising braking efficiency and brake life.
Improved electrohydraulic implement controls (option), which features electronic sensors on lift arm and bucket tilt cylinder, allowing the operator to adjust the bucket kick-out from the cab. A fine modulation mode ensures precise linkage control;
Emissions-compliant engines: The 950G Series II, 962G Series II, 966G Series II, 972G Series II and 980G Series II are powered by electronically-controlled diesel engines that deliver levels of performance, fuel economy, reliability and operating flexibility well beyond the capabilities of traditional mechanically-controlled engines.
Engine power is directed to the axles via an electronically-controlled, powershift transmission with an automatic shift facility and a kick-down feature that speeds up downshifting and increases bucket fill speeds in applications like face loading where the loader will often approach the pile in second gear.
Machine efficiency is enhanced by the optional free wheel stator torque converter and an integrated oil-disc braking system that features all-hydraulic operation for better performance and greater reliability.
Extensive bucket range, which increases versatility. The G-Series II wheel loaders are built around an articulated main frame that offers excellent manoeuvrability. A wide application range is ensured by an extensive range of buckets with rated capacities from 2.7 cu m on the 950G Series II up to 5.7 cu m on the 980G Series II. These buckets are ideal for the light to medium-duty applications associated with general excavation, truck loading and stockpiling.
Increased operator comfort and reduced maintenance: With proven design features, like the optional Command Control Steering system (standard on 980G Series II), the new cab builds on the G-Series reputation for operator comfort and efficiency. Enhancements include a wider front windscreen that improves visibility to the bucket corners; an air suspension seat that offers improved lumbar support and armrest adjustment; and an automotive-style dashboard incorporating the latest EMS III electronic monitoring system.
Routine maintenance is simplified and operating costs lowered by the introduction of better diagnostics and prognostics on the EMS III monitoring system; and oil change intervals that have been doubled to 500 hours on the engine and 4,000 hours on the hydraulic system.
"The new G-Series II wheel loaders offer many important benefits to mid-size wheel loader customers," says the spokesman. "Their new engines have made them more productive and use less fuel than the earlier models, while making them kinder to the environment in terms of their noise and exhaust emissions. They are also easier to control, more comfortable to operate and require less maintenance."
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