Caterpillar has launched its new 834K wheel dozer.
It’s an updated version of the Cat 834 stable, that has been operating on sites for nearly half a century.
The 834K comes with a completely new cab design, drive train refinement, new monitoring and diagnostic features, more safety features, and additional structural enhancements.
Powered by a 370 kW Cat C18 engine, which comes in a Tier 4 Final version, Tier 3 equivalent, and Tier 2 version, the engine uses an actuated, electronic unit-injection system for precise control of fuel delivery and greater performance.
It has a top speed of 35km/h.
It has a number of fuel saving enhancements built-in, such as engine-idle-shutdown and engine-idle kick-down systems, as well as delayed engine shutdown systems to protect the machine from hot shutdowns.
An on-demand hydraulically driven cooling fan also reduces horsepower draw for greater efficiency.
A Cat 4F/3R planetary power-shift transmission is used, and features an Advanced Productivity Electronic Control Shifting system for greater vehicle momentum through shift points.
A forced flow oil lubricates and cools the transmission high-torque clutches for longer component life.
For increased control, Cat have included a clutch torque convertors that allows the operator to adjust rimpull from 100% to 25% to match hydraulic effort and rimpull accordingly.
This aids in reducing tyre wear as well.
The 834K’s cab has been completely redesigned, with automatic temperature control, touch-screen displays, electro/hydraulic parking brakes, and comfortable seats with integrated controls.
Noise levels have also been reduces to 71dB.
The wheel dozer has retained its massive full-box-section rare frame which resists torsional shock, while heavy duty steering cylinder mounts are included to transfer and dissipate steering loadings into the frame.
Available blade types include straight, universal, semi-universal and coal, ranging in capacity from 7.9 to 22.2 metres cubed.
The blade mounting push beams have a ‘through-width’ design, as opposed to simply being attached to the side of the frame, which dissipates the stress of blade corner loading into the frame.
It also has a redesigned rear axle trunnion, which is now wider and bolted directly to the frame rails.
This eliminates the previously used intermediate casting and allows loads to be more effectively dispersed.
Its lower articulation point has also been strengthened, with an increase in front frame thickness and an increase in pin diameter.
Safety has also been a focus in the latest iteration of the 834 wheel dozer.
The new model features standard rearview cameras, repositioned access ladders, full permitter railings, and ground level panels that house stairway light switches, engine shut-down switches, and lockouts.
Service points are accessibly from ground level or from its large, skid resistant platforms.
Swing-out doors on both sides of the engine give ready access to daily maintenance items, and ecology fluid drains facilitate service and protect the environment.