Caterpillar’s new 966K CVT wheel loader
Equipped with an advanced powertrain system, the new Caterpillar 966K XE wheel loader is said to deliver up to a 25% fuel efficiency improvement with optimum performance.
The 966K XE will be initially available in Belgium, France, Germany, Italy, Netherlands, United Kingdom in the fourth quarter of 2012.
The machine has an operating weight of 24,189kg and bucket capacities ranging from 2.5m3-9.2m3
The 966K XE has been engineered to deliver superior efficiency by utilising an integrated Cat continuously variable transmission system.
A hydraulic pump and motor (variator unit), allows for a smooth and continuous gear ratio change between engine speed and machine speed.
“The variator provides this ratio flexibility while greatly reducing the heat load generated by the drive train when the machine is digging, pushing and climbing under heavy load.
“The continuously variable gear ratio of the variator also enables the engine to run at a more efficient operating range independent of machine ground speed,” says Caterpillar.
“Power is transmitted through the variator unit (versatile gear ratio) as well as a parallel mechanical gear path (highest efficiency), and power through the variator and mechanical paths are combined through a series of planetary gear sets in order maximise the transmission efficiency over a wide range of operating conditions.”
The 966K XE is powered by a Cat C9.3 ACERT diesel engine, delivering a peak net horsepower rating of 220kW.
Meeting the
“Developed especially for production loading for both 966K and 966K XE, Performance Series Buckets are standard and deliver faster fill times and better material retention to reduce cycle time and improve productivity.”
With the 966K XE, transmission operation is automated and transparent to the operator who has the ability to control maximum ground speed through the use of virtual gears to provide flexibility in various machine applications.
The engine can be controlled to operate more efficiently over a wide range of conditions.
During deceleration, machine momentum can be recovered as free energy to power implements or the cooling fan, while significantly lower working engine speeds result in reduced soot build-up for longer regeneration intervals, cutting fuel use further.
The 966K XE has two pedals with reduced operating interface/mode complexity. In addition, the operator is free to concentrate on bucket fill and digging capabilities without the need for manual shifting and can utilise the machine while the integral power system control prevents engine over-speeding and makes it nearly impossible to stall the engine while digging.
When engaging the stockpile or quarry face the machine automatically reduces speed under full power, without the need for manual downshifting.
As with the 966K, the 966K XE benefits from a comfortable and productive operator station and the left and right-hand sliding windows can be opened and closed while seated. A standard rear-view camera with large colour monitor enhances visibility to the back of the machine.
A new low-effort electro-hydraulic joystick steering system is standard. Joystick steering permits operators to work in the most ergonomically neutral position with both arms resting comfortably on wide, well-padded, adjustable armrests. A high-backed seat with lumbar support further enhances ergonomics. The Cat joystick steering system has an exclusive force-feedback feature that automatically increases joystick effort as ground speed increases. This improves steering control and comfort, especially at higher speeds. The joystick moves side to side; its angle mirrors the machine’s articulation angle.
“The engine runs at the most efficient speeds to reduce fuel consumption, which could lead to extended engine life. Furthermore, integrated retarding and modulated torque control could also result in increased tire and brake life,” says Caterpillar.
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Hall: 5B Stand: J023
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