Caterpillar, at its annual fall product showcase in Peoria, Ill., introduced new and upgraded products to the trade press.
Caterpillar introduced the 990K Aggregate Handler, designed to handle greater payloads in aggregates yard applications. “With as much as a 25 percent payload increase, as compared to the standard 990K, the new Aggregate Handler enables customers to load trucks and railcars faster and to move more material in load-and-carry and stockpile management tasks,” said Todd Turtland, product application specialist.
The Cat 990K Aggregate Handler has a payload of 22 tons (20 tonnes) and a full-turn static tipping load of 96,426 lb. (43 738 kg). Additional counterweight maintains machine stability, and robust 990K structures ensure durability in the Aggregate Handler configuration. The loader makes best use of general purpose and coal buckets for increased volume.
The Cat 740 GC articulated dump truck (ADT) re-introduces the 40-ton (36.3 mt) size class to the Cat ADT range. The new model is designed to incorporate the proven features and performance of models currently in the ADT lineup, including new controls, transmission-protection features, hoist-assist system, advanced traction-control system, stability-assist system, and a fuel-saving ECO mode.
In addition, the 740 GC also incorporates the latest automatic retarder-control system, which requires no input from the operator, resulting in greater operating efficiency. For added control and convenience, the new model also features a “wait-brake,” which temporarily applies the service brakes during pauses in the work cycle, reducing operator effort and fatigue. Also, a hill-start system automatically holds the machine on grades, allowing the operator to move from the service brake to the throttle with no roll-back on slopes.
Three new Cat articulated trucks – 730, 730 EJ (Ejector), and 735 – have been extensively redesigned, enhancing the field-proven features and performance of their C-Series predecessors (730C2, 730C2 EJ, and 735C) with new operator stations – including innovative new controls, transmission-protection features, new hoist-assist system, advanced traction control system, new stability-assist system and a fuel saving ECO operating mode.
In addition, the design of the 730 and 730 EJ is enhanced with automatic retarder control and a hill-start feature. The 735 retains these features from its C-Series predecessor and further incorporates significant design refinements that include a new Cat C13 ACERT engine, Cat CX31 transmission (also on the 730 and 730 EJ) and structural and dimensional modifications that reduce empty weight by 22 percent, while retaining the productivity of the outgoing 735C. These features combine for an up to 18-percent gain in fuel efficiency.
Next Generation 36-ton size class excavators from Caterpillar – the 336 and 336 GC – increase operating efficiency, lower fuel and maintenance costs, and improve operator comfort compared to previous models. The new excavators offer unique combinations of features designed to match contractors’ productivity and cost targets.
Delivering high-production performance, the new Cat 336 features standard integrated Cat Connect Technology and the most power and lift capacity of the two models. The result is maximum productivity at the lowest cost.