Innovative technologies are now being introduced for minimising engine emissions, optimising driveline performance and also monitoring fleet operations.
Sophisticated drivelines are key features of Caterpillar’s new 980 and 982 wheeled loaders, which are up to 10% more productive, while offering 20% lower maintenance costs compared to the previous 980M and 982M powershift models.
The Cat 980 XE and 982 XE models feature Caterpillar continuous variable transmissions (CVTs) that allow fuel savings of up to 35%, while lowering maintenance costs by up to 25% compared to the M series models.
The Standard Cat Payload with Assist package is fitted to all 980 and 982 series loaders, providing an accurate weighing of bucket payloads. This technology includes low-lift-weigh and manual tip-off functions. Optional Cat Advanced Payload expands the system’s functionality with Lists-Management, Multitask- & Manual-Add Modes and Tip-off assist. This can wirelessly integrate the machine in the scale-house process with Dispatch-for-Loading.
The new Cat Autodig improves loading technique and reduces tyre slip and loading times. It can automate the loading cycle to deliver high bucket fill factors for up to 10% more productivity. The new models also have Application-Profiles, which allows an operator to select multiple machine parameters to optimise settings for an application.
The CVT benefits from the proven technology used in the larger 966K XE, 966M XE and 972M XE models. The 980 XE and 982 XE feature a high-efficiency continuously variable parallel path drive system. It combines a direct mechanical path from the engine to the wheels with a HystatTM variator.
Integration of the Cat CVT, engine, hydraulic and cooling system improve fuel efficiency up to 35%, through lowering the rated engine speed with high rimpull. Operating noise levels are also reduced.
The new cabs have improved legroom and visibility, while the next generation ride control system acts as a shock absorber to improve ride comfort on rough terrain, as well as reducing bucket spillage.
The seat-mounted electrohydraulic joystick steering system provides precise control although a conventional steering wheel is also available on the 980.
Extended fluid and filter change intervals on the Cat 980 and 982 wheeled loaders reduce maintenance costs up to 20% and by up to 25% on the 980 XE and 982 XE models. All maintenance intervals are now scheduled in 1000 hour increments, eliminating service downtime every 500 hours.
Remote services technologies on the new Cat medium wheeled loaders can save service trips to the jobsite and ensure the machine operates at peak performance. Remote Troubleshoot connects the machine to the dealer’s service department over-the-air to quickly diagnose fault codes without on-machine cable connection.
Remote Flash ensures the wheeled loaders are operating with the most up-to-date software while working around the production schedule. Update files are pushed to the machine in the background and installation can be initiated from the Cat Remote Services Web Portal by the customer.
Cat Performance Series buckets are said to offer higher fill factors and better material retention than other bucket designs with the same rated capacity. Cat Work tools are available and the new Cat 980 is offered with the optional Fusion Quick Coupler, for quick bucket changes without leaving the cab.
The C13 diesels meet Tier 4 Final/Stage V emissions requirements and deliver 313kW in the 980 XE and 322kW in the 982 XE. In standard configuration, the 980 XE has an operating weight of 30.3tonnes while the 982 XE weighs in at 35.5tonnes.
The new DL220-7 and DL250-7 wheeled loaders are now available from Doosan Infracore Europe. These are the latest additions to the latest DL-7 loader range, following on from the seven larger models in late 2020.
The DL220-7 and DL250-7 share the next generation design of the other DL-7 models. Power comes from new, high-output Stage V compliant engines that are said to provide increased fuel efficiency. The machines offer durability, higher productivity and a lower cost of ownership, coupled with an improved working environment for the operator.
The DL220-7 and DL250-7 loaders are said to have smooth and responsive hydraulics and auxiliary hydraulic connections. They are equipped as standard with a third spool valve with settable flow and detent function, providing a constant flow for hydraulically driven attachments. A fourth spool valve is available as an option on both models.
Operators can control hydraulic attachments using the proportional switch on the joystick. Various tyre options are available from leading manufacturers, to cover a wide range of conditions and applications. In addition, the new wheeled loaders can be ordered with an optional 300kg counterweight, depending on the application, such as handling soil, sand or aggregates in recycling, construction, demolition and quarrying. The standard bucket capacity for the DL220-7 is 2.3m3 while it is 2.5m3 for the DL250-7.
The machines have Z-kinematic lift arms for high breakout forces and lifting capacities, especially for heavy materials. The machines are also said to offer large dump angles for unloading sticky materials efficiently. Both wheeled loaders are available as HL versions featuring a high lift arm and the 300kg counterweight.
An LIS (Load Isolation System) provides a smoother ride and comfort as well as higher productivity due to improved stability when the machine is moving. The lift arm is cushioned by a hydro-pneumatic accumulator linked to the lift hydraulic system, acting as a shock absorber. The system improves cycle times, productivity and fuel efficiency for load and carry applications.
The DL220-7 and DL250-7 wheeled loaders have automatic four-speed powershift transmissions and limited slip differential (LSD) axles as standard. Options include a five-gear powershift transmission with lock-up torque convertor and heavy duty HDL axles, delivering better traction with the differential hydraulic lock (DHL), in high-load environments. The DHL can be engaged at full torque automatically without any action from the operator.
The improved powertrain allows an 11% increase in travel speed, with a maximum of 40km/h.
Power is provided by the new Doosan DL06V Stage V 6-cylinder diesel, which delivers 119kW for the DL220-7 and 128kW for the DL250-7. The new DL06V engine offers up to 5% better fuel efficiency than the previous generation unit, as well as high output and torque.
The new engine meets Stage V emissions regulations without the need for exhaust gas recirculation (EGR), instead using selective catalyst reduction (SCR), diesel oxidation catalyst (DOC) and diesel particulate filter (DPF) technologies.
The Doosan smart guidance system (DSGS) is a new feature that analyses the operator habits and helps achieve the most fuel-efficient use. The DL220-7 and DL250-7 wheeled loaders have the latest DoosanCONNECT wireless fleet monitoring system. This provides comprehensive information about machine performance in a dual mode. The package offers a web-based fleet and asset management solution for managing the performance and security of machines and promoting preventative maintenance.
Turkish manufacturer HIDROMEK is now offering its new HMK 635 WL wheeled loader. The machine has high output and is said to offer short cycle times and increased productivity. High performance, durability, low fuel consumption, versatility, operator comfort and safety are said to be other features of this new model.
The HMK 635 WL offers high breakout power control in rugged working areas such as quarries or concrete plants. The engine meets Tier 4 Final/Stage V emissions requirements and delivers 210kW and a maximum 1,200Nm of torque. Low fuel consumption and high toque output are claimed for the machine due to the combination of a powerful engine and efficient driveline. Weighing in at 20.6tonnes, the machine is equipped with a 3.5m3 bucket in standard specification.
The powershift transmission features five forward and three reverse gears and is said to offer smooth shifting in all working applications. The machine features the TIPSHIFT function, which allows an operator to change direction quickly by pressing a single key without using the gear lever. This is used typically when the machine is moving forward or backward during loading. The system increases productivity and ensures safe operation without losing the control of the steering.
HIDROMEK says that the machine offers high manoeuvrability for working in narrow areas due to its articulation angle of 40°, while heavy-duty construction is said to ensure durability.
Operator comfort is claimed and the machine has a high-visibility, low-noise cab that has features such as a kickdown button for downshifting and touchscreen control panel as well as air conditioning.
Easy access to service points from ground level is claimed, allowing fuelling and battery maintenance operations to be performed easily. The cab can be manually tilted to 35° with a jack and the engine cover can be tilted to 80° using an electric actuator, making engine access easier. The engine/transmission cover is a two-piece unit as the engine and transmission components are located separately for ease of maintenance and servicing. A reversing fan allows speedy radiator cleaning.
