25 minute read

Volvo Takes Big Step Toward Carbon Neutral

Hydrogen fuel cell development forms a key part of Volvo Group’s overall electromobility ambition to be carbon neutral by 2040. In principle, a fuel cell works much like a battery, except that it generates its own electricity from the hydrogen onboard rather than being charged from an external source.

Toni Hagelberg, head of sustainable power at Volvo CE, in the new fuel cell test lab.

Volvo Group has opened the first dedicated fuel cell test lab, marking a significant advancement in the manufacturer’s ambition to be fossil-free by 2040.

As part of the company’s commitment to the Science-Based Targets initiative — a necessary measure to meet the goals of the Paris Agreement — and the group’s long-term ambition to be 100 percent fossil-free by 2040, this pioneering investment will offer Volvo Group unique conditions to test and develop hydrogen fuel cell technology solutions in heavy construction machines and other applications.

The dedicated lab, located at the Volvo Construction Equipment (Volvo CE) Technical Center in Eskilstuna, Sweden, represents a big step forward in the company’s commitment to hydrogen. The lab also is the first facility in Volvo Group to be testing complete fuel cell units and will as such be a strong contributor to the company’s dedication to fuel cell technology.

Toni Hagelberg, head of sustainable power at Volvo CE, said: “Fuel cell technology is a key enabler of sustainable solutions for heavier construction machines, and this investment provides us with another vital tool in our work to reach ScienceBased Targets. The lab will also serve Volvo Group globally, as it’s the first to offer this kind of advanced testing. It’s a really exciting step to accelerate the development of fuel cell solutions towards our united vision for a carbon neutral society.”

Fueling an Emission-Free World

Through Hydrogen

Volvo CE sees hydrogen fuel cell technology as playing a key role within its overall electromobility ambitions, together with battery electric solutions, as demonstrated by the electric compact machines, and more sustainable internal combustion engine offerings — with all three streams working in alignment on the journey towards a carbon neutral society.

While battery electric solutions are ideal for urban construction and other use cases, the size of the batteries is simply too impractical for larger machines and heavy construction equipment, which is where hydrogen comes in as a promising alternative.

“Hydrogen can be produced in many different ways and it’s important to have a lifecycle approach across the entire value chain”, said Hagelberg. “Not only will the research and development carried out at the test lab be dedicated to producing fossil-free construction solutions, we will also look at how the hydrogen itself has been produced, and strive for so called “green” hydrogen produced from renewable energy.”

How It Works

Simply put, fuel cells work by combining hydrogen with oxygen, with the resulting chemical reaction producing electricity. The process is completely emission-free, with the only by-product being water vapor. In principle, a fuel cell works much like a battery, except that it generates its own electricity from the hydrogen on-board rather than being charged from an external source. This means it can deliver longer driving ranges, and therefore is more feasible for long-haul transportation and heavier equipment. An added benefit of hydrogen fuel cell solutions, is that they will also be free from the traditional machinery noise pollution. Without a combustion engine, hydrogen powered machines will be comparable to the low noise levels of the electric compact machines. The Fuel Cell Test Lab is a demonstration of the same dedication to hydrogen fuel cell technology, as the recent launch of cell centric, a joint venture by Volvo Group and Daimler Truck to accelerate the development, production and commercialization of fuel cell solutions within long-haul trucking and beyond. Both form a key part of the group’s overall ambition to be 100 percent fossil free by 2040.

For more information, visit www.volvoce.com. 

Pages 15-21 Aggregate Production and Recycling Section

For more information on crushing, screening and recycling equipment, visit CEG's Web site at www.constructionequipmentguide.com.

Cat MH3250, MH3260 Material Handlers Set New Standard

The new Cat MH3250 and MH3260 models deliver high efficiency in demanding material handling applications.

Replacing the historical Cat 330D MH and 345 C MH models respectively, the Next Generation MH3250 and MH3260 tracked material handlers boast longer maintenance intervals and improved fuel efficiency to decrease owning and operating costs up to 20 percent. An entirely new cab concept elevates operator comfort throughout the shift to increase productivity.

Both models feature new mechanical variable-gauge undercarriages that flexibly improve machine transportation without sacrificing lifting performance. Track gauge retracts to 10-ft. 7-in. to lower transport costs and make moving the material handlers more efficient. When at the yard, gauge extends to 12-ft. 2-in. wide to increase stability and maximize lift capacities.

The MH3250 and MH3260 deliver impressive capacities when working at their respective 52-ft. 6-in. and 59-ft. 1-in. maximum reach, reducing the number of times the material handler has to be repositioned at the yard to increase productivity.

Raising the Bar On Performance

Three different power modes — Power, Smart and Eco — fine-tune power requirements to the job, so the new MH3250 and MH3260 use less fuel than their predecessors without sacrificing machine performance.

Smart Mode automatically matches engine and hydraulic power to working conditions to reduce fuel consumption, while Power Mode provides maximum power to optimize productivity. The machines’ new fuel-efficient engines meet stringent U.S. EPA Tier IV Final emission standards and can run up to B20 biodiesel.

These material handlers operate at up to 8,530-ft. above sea level without derating and offer standard high-ambient temperature capability of 125 F (52 C) and cold-start capability of minus 25 F (minus 32 C).

New valve priority automatically places hydraulic pressure and flow where it’s required to increase material handling efficiency. Their advanced electrohydraulic system provides the optimum balance of power, efficiency and load control. Auto warm-up reduces the time it takes for hydraulic oil warming in cold temperatures and helps prolong the life of system components, according to the manufacturer.

A range of attachments and reach options are available for varied applications to increase operating flexibility. Increasing the MH3250’s versatility, it can be equipped with the ex-factory 25 kW generator for magnet operation. Customers can choose from a range of Cat Work Tool attachments in different sizes to meet the site’s material handling and production needs.

The MH3250 and MH3260 deliver impressive capacities when working at their respective 52-ft. 6-in. and 59-ft. 1-in. maximum reach, reducing the number of times the material handler has to be repositioned at the yard to increase productivity.

Work in Comfort

Featuring sound suppression for interior noise reduction and rubber cab mounts to reduce vibration feedback, the all-new Next Generation cab advances operating ease, comfort and productivity. All controls are conveniently positioned in front of and within easy reach of the operator to avoid unnecessary movements. The left-hand console tilts up to offer easy cab entry and exit. Maintaining operator comfort throughout the entire shift in a variety of climates, the premium air-suspension seat is heated and ventilated.

A large, 10-in. high-resolution touchscreen monitor with jog-dial offers easy navigation of the intuitive operator controls. Using the new Operator ID function, different machine operators can store their specific joystick and preferred power mode settings, and the machine automatically recalls the settings based on the ID.

Improving highwall trailer loading/unloading and shredder loading efficiency, the hydraulically controlled cab rises to a maximum elevation of 19-ft. 9-in.

Safety in Mind

Smaller cab pillars, combined with large tempered windows and a flat engine hood, deliver enhanced all-around visibility for the operator, increasing safety. With video feed displayed on the large touchscreen monitor, standard rearview and sideview cameras improve work area visibility. The cab design includes thick, impact-resistant safety laminated windshields that meet P5A standards, while operators are protected from falling and flying debris by the standard Falling Object Guard System (FOGS).

An upper-level service platform with access steps constructed of antiskid punch plate provides easy, safe and quick access to machine service items. In the event of a hydraulic service interruption, the cab can be safely lowered via one of two emergency cab lowering valves, located inside the cab as well as outside of the machine. Check valves on the boom and stick prevent reverse hydraulic oil flow, to maintain the position of the front linkage should the hydraulic system experience an unexpected loss in pressure.

Service Simplified

Synchronized service intervals and extended filter replacement schedules reduce maintenance time and costs for the new Cat MH3250 and MH3260 material handlers. All fuel filters feature a coordinated 1,000-operating-hour change interval, and the new air intake filter with precleaner lasts up to 1,000 hours to reduce maintenance requirements.

A new hydraulic oil filter improves filtration and increases change intervals to 3,000 operating hours, a 50 percent longer service life than previous filter designs. New antidrain valves keep the hydraulic oil clean during filter replacement to improve system longevity.

Operators conveniently track filter life and maintenance intervals on the in-cab high-resolution monitor. Eliminating the need for operator interaction, the high-efficiency cooling fan features an automatic reverse function to keep the cores clean, maximizing machine uptime. Conveniently located Cat S·O·S ports allow for quick fluid sample extraction for analysis, simplifying maintenance.

New remote services capabilities for the MH3250 and MH3260 increase service efficiency and potentially save trips to the job site. Remote Flash works around the production schedule to conveniently assure the machine operates with the most current version of on-board software, so it delivers high performance with minimum downtime. The Cat App conveniently helps to manage fleet location, hours and maintenance schedules and provides alerts for required maintenance needs. 

Page 16 • July 18, 2021 • www.constructionequipmentguide.com •Recycling Section • Construction Equipment Guide Compact Sennebogen 825 Deftly, Nimbly Works On Urban Demolition Projects

The days are past when fleets of specialized cranes, excavators and loaders can converge on the demolition sites in busy cities.

Safety and economics are driving a clear trend towards optimized equipment planning that allows contractors to streamline operations, minimize downtimes and reduce traffic interruptions, while making the best use of time with skilled operators.

Densely populated inner cities can’t afford the space for machines to sit idle and safety standards can’t afford the hazards of jockeying machines around in cramped work zones. Simply, demolition contractors need machines that can do more, with less.

One-Stop Solution

With customers demanding maximum productivity in a compact package, Sennebogen mobile demolition solutions are emerging as a family of one-stop, onsite demolition machines that “do it all” in urban locations.

These models, ranging in size from 17 to 30 tons, combine a small footprint and powerful tool handling with increased flexibility to adapt to multiple roles.

At the upper end of this series is the 825 R-HD E-Series machine mounted on an expandable crawler undercarriage and able to reach up to 45 ft. (14 m) with a full range of interchangeable hydraulic attachments.

Purpose-built for rough working environments, such as scrap yards and waste handling facilities, these machines are built to last in the most demanding demolition applications, according to the manufacturer.

The boom of the 825 R-HD features a fully hydraulic quick-change coupler allowing the operator to switch easily to the best tool for the job at hand. Comfortably settled into Sennebogen’s Maxcab, a single operator can take on every step of the tear-down: targeted deconstruction and sorting of building components, crushing material with a concrete pulverizer, cutting and sizing with demolition shears, and finally loading recyclable material and waste into trucks or bins with a choice of buckets and grapples. ity of a demolition machine.

The 825 travels with a compact footprint that allows it to quickly self-load onto a flatbed and move on to the next job site. No transit preparation is required, so the machine is shipped with its counterweight and boom in place, ready to work.

On arrival at the work zone, the 825 drives off the truck. Then, its crawler tracks can telescope out for a wider stance, providing a stable working platform on uneven and broken terrain. As work progresses, the machine maneuvers easily to each new position.

Like all Sennebogen material handlers, the 825’s boom can safely handle its maximum load capacity through 360 degrees of rotation with a minimal tail swing. This allows operators to get to work quickly in any direction.

Demolition operators are often extending the boom and attachments up to significant heights, so they appreciate Sennebogen’s optional tiltable cab. The tilting Maxcab can be adjusted to look upward by as much as 30 degrees, so the operator can sit comfortably in their seat and avoid fatigue through a long shift, according to the manufacturer.

The Maxcab also can elevate smoothly up to an eye-level of 18 ft. (5.7 m) to provide an ideal view into trucks for loading quickly and safely.

The elevated cab on the 825 M allows the operator on a demolition site a clear view of the deconstruction process.

Safe, Efficient Cost-Savings

While the stability and versatility of the 825 make demolition sites safer for everyone, the Sennebogen Maxcab provides additional safety features to protect operators.

Ground-to-cab railings and handholds are standard equipment, along with Sennebogen’s catwalk and sliding door entry. Bulletproof glass on the windshield and the skylight protects the operator.

Demolition models also are available with extra protective steel grilles on the roof and front window. Generous window space affords a clear unobstructed view of the entire work area from the elevated cab, augmented by cameras mounted on the right side (boom side) and rear of the carriage, displayed on a monitor inside the cab. The monitor also is able to receive feeds from additional optional cameras, such as one mounted on the stick for a closeup view near the working attachment.

Sennebogen’s package of energysaving "Green Efficiency" technologies allow its diesel-powered machines to operate with low emissions, low wear and tear and low fuel cost. EcoMode, automatic idle and automatic stop, reduce diesel consumption to a minimum and further reduce fuel consumption and emissions by up to 25 percent.

Sennebogen is known for relying on hydraulic engineering, instead of “black box” electronics to achieve its goals for power and efficiency. Largescale valves and hoses allow the hydraulic system to keep oil flowing smoothly according to the demand for lifting or attachment tasks. This lowpressure circuit results in a reduction in wear on pressure-sensitive hydraulic components, according to the manufacturer.

For more information, visit www.sennebogen-na.com. 

Metso Outotec and AM King, a leading marketplace for surplus mining and processing equipment globally, have entered into a global partnership agreement covering spares, wears, repairs and field service recommendations for AM King brokered mill and crusher sales, irrespective of the OEM. Metso Outotec, AM KingEnter Global Partnership Deal

Metso Outotec and AM King, a leading marketplace for surplus mining and processing equipment globally, have entered into a global partnership agreement covering spares, wears, repairs and field service recommendations for AM King brokered mill and crusher sales, irrespective of the OEM.

Metso Outotec will provide competitive aftermarket solutions for optimized performance, higher reliability and increased profitability, covering solution packages on certified inspections and warranty, maintenance services and optimization services.

“We are very excited to partner with AM King. Through our comprehensive service portfolio, customers can maximize the performance of used or un-used surplus equipment. Metso Outotec’s extensive aftermarket offering combined with our unique field service expertise bring many sustainable options to expand the equipment life cycle.

“This is a concrete action to contribute to circular economy targets which are increasingly important for all companies,” said Sami Takaluoma, president, services business area at Metso Outotec.

Metso Outotec has an extensive footprint of more than 3,000 field service professionals and additional support resources close to customer operations. Today, Metso Outotec has 140 service centers around the world.

“Partnering with Metso Outotec will further enhance the promise we make to all customers interested in surplus assets by providing a faster time to production, lower capital costs and a more sustainable future for the mining industry,” said Albert King, a member of the management team at AMK.

For more information about AM King, visit amking.com. 

FAE PT LINE: GET USED TO BEST IN CLASS

(770) 407-2014 - info@faeusa.com fae-group.com

Powerscreen Responds to Decarbonization Challenge

Powerscreen, a leading provider of mobile crushing and screening equipment, is responding to the industry’s decarbonization challenge by providing solutions that work toward minimized environmental impact and greater sustainability.

Powerscreen’s decarbonization story begins with the introduction of the concept of mobile crushing and screening, has evolved to increase fuel efficiency and looks to the future with Powerscreen’s electrification strategy, including an exciting, brandnew concept for the future of crushing and screening — the Eco-Warrior battery powered screener.

Neil Robinson, Powerscreen product and applications manager said, “Some may view this topic as a recent trend, but for Powerscreen, decarbonization is multifaceted and has always been at our core. The Powerscreen mobile concept has always contributed towards decreasing the carbon footprint per ton of material produced.

“This is done by reducing unnecessary material handling of hauling and loading material to static plants in aggregate production or in the ability to recycle and reuse material at point of use, for example in roadbuilding projects where sub-base material is produced in situ. Using stockpiling conveyors as part of a track mobile set-up is another perfect example of how-to cut-out unnecessary double handling, reducing fuel consumption and therefore carbon production.”

Powerscreen has evolved its product range to reduce environmental impact by making its crushing and screening equipment as fuel efficient as possible, using direct drive systems for its crushing range and improving engine capabilities and driveline design for its screening range.

“Direct drive systems are proven to be 13 to 18 percent more fuel efficient when compared with hydrostatic, resulting in significantly less carbon emissions, while improvements to our screening range has reduced engine speeds from 2,200 rpm to 1,800 rpm, which not only means cleaner engines with less emissions, but also reduced fuel usage and therefore carbon produced,” said Robinson.

“For example, a typical mid-size screener running at 1,000 hours per year, has a fuel usage reduction of approximately 450 liters, which equates to 1.2 tonnes less of carbon produced annually.”

Another important tool for fuel efficiency is Powerscreen Pulse, in-depth machine telematics that helps customers see how and where their machines are being operated, understand fuel consumption and carry out fault-finding activities to ensure optimized performance.

“Powerscreen was the first mobile crushing and screening manufacturer to offer indepth machine telematics with the launch of Powerscreen Pulse in 2013. In the early days, it generated a large volume of data, but now our system has been refined to deliver actionable information with customized reports and suggested actions for more fuelefficient operation,” Robinson said.

Electrification is currently a key focus of the Powerscreen decarbonization strategy. The Powerscreen Hybrid range, designed to give customers alternative energy options to operate their range of crushing, screening and conveying equipment, has been dramatically enhanced to include more fully electric crushers and screeners as well as models powered by innovative combinations of diesel and electricity. These options enable customers to choose which fuel to use, depending on cost, location and availability, and are of particular benefit to customers who operate in an area where electricity is more cost effective than diesel fuel, where diesel engine noise is unwanted or on sites where electricity is the preferred energy source.

“Customers using Powerscreen Hybrid units powered off the grid have been able to reduce onsite carbon emissions by 57 percent per ton of material produced. While our hybrid customers have traditionally been in environmentally conscious countries and states, where legislation or financial incentives are more focused on green energy, we are witnessing a significant uptake in nontraditional locations, as customers prepare to comply with increased government drives for carbon neutrality.”

Powerscreen continues to spearhead the industry’s drive for decarbonization and a clear demonstration of this is a brand-new concept for the future of crushing and screening — the Eco-Warrior battery powered screener. Working closely with automotive technology and using top of the range, hyper efficient drives and intelligent control systems, the Eco-Warrior battery powered screener has been designed to deliver on the powerful screening action that Powerscreen machines are famous for, while being a self-charging, or plug-in, model that features a simple, quiet engine with no after-treatment requirements, according to the manufacturer.

The required engine size has been cut in half compared with the diesel hydraulic unit and the battery pack can mean emissionfree running or give a power boost.

“To the best of our knowledge this is the first battery powered screener in the world and has been clocking up testing hours since it was built in 2019.

For more information, visit www. powerscreen.com. 

Keestrack Finds ‘Perfect Fit’ With Goldoni Acquisition

Keestrack, a major manufacturer in mining, recycling and construction equipment found a perfect fit with Goldoni, who specializes in agricultural machinery, to enter the agricultural market and to grow even more in the construction segment.

“After decades of organic growth, we’re glad to continue our growth by expanding our business into the agricultural segment” said Kees Hoogendoorn, president of the Keestrack group. “After analysing many opportunities we felt personally drawn to Goldoni for its rich traditional family values which are very close to ours. Our goal is to keep this historic brand alive supporting the local economy and employment rates.”

“We see a lot of synergy between the current businesses, such as production systems, suppliers and dealer network, which will leverage the Goldoni business to bring success to the company,” said Peter Hoogendoorn, vice president of operations of the Keestrack Group operating its own Italian factory for crushers in Ponzano Veneto.

Keestrack already has a clear strategy to restart the Goldoni tractors production as soon as possible, focusing on making the best specialized tractors, transcars and motor cultivators, using Goldoni’s tradition with Keestrack’s innovation. Keestrack has a strong drive to innovate and is preparing for industry 4.0.

“The product portfolio will meet the customer’s requirements. We look to the future and want to introduce the K-series open field tractors in the near future. The Goldoni dealer network, in synergy with Keestrack’s, will be the key to make the orange Goldoni tractors strong on the fields again,” said Roberto Lopes, Keestrack Italy CEO.

Goldoni, a brand which has existed since 1926, stands for a high technology level with care for the environment, Italian traditions and passion for design, according to the company. From moto cultivators to specialized tractors like 4WD and Equal Wheels dedicated to orchards and vineyards, the Goldoni range is developed to help agricultural operators manage the entire agronomic cycle more effective and sustainable.

For more information, visit www.keestrack.com. 

POWER MOTIVE CORPORATION www.powermotivecorp.com

DENVER HEADQUARTERS 5000 Vasquez Blvd., Denver, CO 80216 303-355-5900 Colorado Springs, CO • 719-576-5541 Durango, CO • 970-259-0455 Grand Junction, CO • 970-241-1550 Milliken, CO • 970-587-1188 Cheyenne, WY • 307-634-5149

ROAD MACHINERY LLC www.roadmachinery.com

Phoenix, AZ • 480-545-2400 Phoenix, AZ • 602-252-7121 Prescott, AZ • 928-778-5621 Tucson, AZ • 520-623-8681 Bakersfield, CA • 661-695-4830 Hayward, CA • 510-659-1903 Fresno, CA • 559-834-3149 Mojave, CA • 661-824-2319 Perris, CA • 909-355-3600 Pico Rivera, CA • 562-699-6767 Redding, CA • 530-229-3820 Sacramento, CA • 916-375-3540 Santa Rosa, CA • 707-544-4147

CLAIREMONT EQUIPMENT www.clairemontequipment.com

7651 Ronson Road, San Diego, CA 92111 • 858-278-8351 1330 W Mission Road, Escondido, CA 92029 • 760-739-9100 8520 Cherry Avenue, Fontana, CA 92335 • 909-429-9100 440 West Aten Road, Imperial, CA 92251 • 760-355-7700 81-501 Industrial Place, Indio, CA 92201 • 760-863-5558 4726 Convoy Street, San Diego, CA 92111 • 858-278-8338

KIRBY-SMITH MACHINERY INC. www.kirby-smith.com

6715 W Reno Avenue • Oklahoma City, OK 73137 405-495-7820 McAlester, OK • 918-310-1550 Tulsa, OK • 918-438-1700 Abilene, TX • 325-692-6334 Amarillo, TX • 806-373-2826 Dallas, TX • 214-371-7777 Ft. Worth, TX • 817-378-0600 Lubbock, TX • 806-745-2112 Odessa, TX • 432-333-7000 Waco, TX • 254-261-1370

WAUKESHA-PEARCE INDUSTRIES, INC. www.wpi.com

12320 S. Main Street • Houston, TX 77035 • 713-723-1050 Buffalo, TX • 903-322-7150 Corpus Christi, TX • 361-884-8275 Edinburg, TX • 956-386-0107 Kilgore, TX • 903-984-2011 Pflugerville, TX • 512-251-0013 Port Arthur, TX • 409-721-5305 San Antonio, TX • 210-648-4444 Tomball, TX • 281-351-9016

Larger control valve and electronic controls deliver smooth, precise performance and up to 12% faster cycle times

Shift-long comfort from a spacious cab, automotive-grade seat and ergonomically-designed, fullyadjustable arm rests

Award-winning Wide Angle Visual Enhancement System (WAVES) provides seamless 270° panoramic view

Ground-level access to routine service points cuts daily maintenance down to just minutes

Tier 4 Final engines deliver up to 12% improved fuel economy…and no DPF to maintain

Robust undercarriage with innovative side-frame design is easier to clean

Bane Machinery

2449 Manana Drive Dallas, TX 75220

800-594-BANE (2263)

10505 North Freeway Fort Worth, TX 76177

800-601-BANE (2263)

3402 E. NE Loop 323 Tyler, TX 75708

800-594-2200

www.banemachinery.com

Oklahoma Territory Construction Equipment

3839 West Reno Ave. Oklahoma City, OK 73107

405-917-9191 866-339-6827

2520 E King Street Tulsa, OK 74110

918-835-7200 866-334-6827

www.oklahomaterritoryequipment.com

Nueces Power Equipment

7667 N Sam Houston Parkway Humble, TX 77396

713-247-0066

www.nuecespower.com

Cisco Equipment

1706 S. 1st Street Artesia, NM 88210

800-748-1846

2707 Slaton Hwy. Lubbock, TX 79404

877-745-9595

520 SE Loop 338 Odessa, TX

800-657-3673

620 N. Bell Street San Angelo, TX 76903

800-496-0271

www.cisco-equipment.com

Triad Machinery

1601 E. Bay Street Tacoma, WA 98421

253-722-5600

910 N. Thierman Road Spokane Valley, WA 99202

509-534-1900

1210 Dale Lane Mt. Vernon, WA 98274

360-488-3948

4440 SW Airport Road Prineville, OR 97754

888-662-2940

91251 Coburg Industrial Way Coburg, OR 97408

541-342-7700

18200 NE Riverside Parkway Portland, OR 97230

800-221-8512

www.triadmachinery.com

Cat Abrasion Undercarriage System Offers Low Cost-Per-Hour Performance

The new Cat Abrasion undercarriage system leads the industry in lowest cost-per-hour performance in moderate- to high-abrasion, low- to moderate-impact applications. A direct replacement for SystemOne — with unique design improvements based on real-world applications, Cat Abrasion is field tested and proven to perform better and last longer when pushing through some of the most abrasive materials, including sand, mud, crushed stone, clay and gravel, according to the manufacturer.

This undercarriage system is available factory installed, or as a replacement offering, on new Cat D1-D6 (small to medium) dozers and legacy D3-D6 models. Cat Abrasion is the newest addition to the Cat undercarriage portfolio, joining the brand’s General Duty and Heavy-Duty Extended Life (HDXL) products.

Innovative Improvements

This undercarriage system is available factory installed, or as a replacement offering, on new Cat D1-D6 (small to medium) dozers and legacy D3-D6 models. Cat Abrasion is the newest addition to the Cat undercarriage portfolio, joining the brand’s General Duty and Heavy-Duty Extended Life (HDXL) products.

The difference of Cat Abrasion compared to other undercarriages lies in the system’s unique design, including proven rotating bushing technology, relieved tread idlers and a proprietary cartridge design that dramatically improves sealability. Each of these innovative improvements contributes to longer component wear life and a lower total cost of ownership (TCO), according to the manufacturer.

Cat rotating bushing technology eliminates bushing turns in abrasive applications, as well as the damaging bushing scrubbing that occurs in high-speed reverse, which reduces maintenance downtime. The system features relieved tread idlers (RTI) that eliminate contact between the idlers and the link rails, which greatly reduces link wear and results in up to two times longer idler life compared to traditional idlers.

RTI provides a smoother ride for machine operators, reducing fatigue and provides better blade control for fine grading. The RTI and sprocket segments are reusable at the time of UC replacement to save money on parts and service.

Cat Abrasion is engineered with a first-to-market cartridge design that ensures seal life matches wear life. This design features a tougher thrust ring material that resists chipping and cracking, as well as a new extended life (XL) coating that reduces end grooving, corrosion and seal-lip wear. Combined, these features result in fewer maintenance needs to increase uptime.

Even in the harshest operating conditions, the refined bore geometry of this new cartridge design enhances material flow through the seal area to resist mud-packing pressure. The new shape for the track seal and load ring expands and contracts to maintain the seal surface. The sealed lip/band design also greatly decreases seal counterface grooving rates.

Combined, this improves sealability by preventing seal packing when operators are working mud and heavy clay, as well as oil loss in freeze and thaw conditions. These improvements translate to less maintenance and reduced costs over the lifecycle of the system’s components.

Supporting the Bottom Line

Cat Abrasion is backed by a worldwide dealer support and Caterpillar Undercarriage Assurance (UA) Program, offering leakage and breakage coverage on all Cat Abrasion components for 4 years/6,000 hours or 100 percent worn, whichever comes first.

Cat Abrasion also comes with Custom Track Service (CTS) undercarriage management, an efficient inspection process used by Cat dealers and undercarriage specialists to measure and manage wear components, identify equipment issues, predict undercarriage wear-out timing and calculate cost-per-hour, resulting longer wear life and lower operating costs.

Parts are 100 percent interchangeable between Cat Abrasion and the SystemOne undercarriage components, including track pads and shoes, carrier rollers, idlers, guards, sprockets, rollers, guides, and the link and track assembly.

For more information, visit www.cat.com. 

KOBELCO-USA.COM

Westrax Machinery

19618 S. Susana Rd. Rancho Dominguez, CA 90221 800-411-4717

611 N. Golden Key St. Gilbert, AZ 85233 602-397-8173 www.westraxmachinery.net

Orion Equipment 18060 Des Moines Memorial Drive Seattle, WA 98148 800-280-8124 www.orion-equip.com

TRI-WEST TRACTOR 6281 Southfront Rd. Livermore, CA 94551 925-455-8200 www.tri-westtractor.com

APCO Equipment 3432 N 5th Street North Las Vegas, NV 89032 702-871-7474 www.apcoequipment.com

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