Cat has launched its new 824K wheel dozer with increased
durability.
The manufacturer states that the new wheel dozer builds on
its predecessors, with refinements in its power train, operator cab, structure,
and safety features.
The machine has a net power rating of 302kW and operating
weight of 34 tonnes, and is available with six blade configurations ranging in
capacity from 5 to 16.2 cubic metres.
Its Cat C15 ACERT engine comes with an electronically controlled
fuel delivery system, engine idle shutdown systems to converse fuel by limiting
idle time, and a delayed shutdown feature.
The engine provides a max travel speed of 35 kilometres per
hour.
Drive train efficiency has been enhanced with a lock up
clutch in the Cat torque convertor, which reduces train power losses and system
overheating.
An electronically controlled 4F/4R Cat power shift
transmission increases drive train efficiency, and can be set by the operator
to automatically upshift or downshift based on machine speed.
In addition single clutch speed shifting control s allows
the wheeled dozer to carry momentum through range shifts for increased
productivity.
“Both operating efficiency and operator convenience get a
boost with the left foot pedal, which serves as
an engine decelerator, transmission neutraliser and brake, depending on the
degree of application,” Cat said.
“As a decelerator, the left pedal allows the operator to
temporarily reduce engine speed by overriding the throttle lock setting when manoeuvring
around obstacles.”
A new larger fuel tank also provides a minimum 12 hours
operation, depending on the application, while an optional tyre pressure
monitoring system provides real time information to the operator in the cab,
ensuring proper inflation levels.
The Steering and Transmission Integrated Control (STIC)
system allows for single-lever steering and transmission control, with simple
side to side movements providing up to 43 degrees of steering articulation in
both direction whilst buttons on the lever provide fingertip control of
directional and range shifting.
Safety and comfort have been two major factors in the
redesign of the operator’s cabin, with a lighted, shallow angle stairway for
entering and exiting the cab, and the STIC armrest able to fold away for added
room during ingress and egress.
The Cat Comfort Series air-suspension seat features extra
thick cushions and moves both the attached electro-hydraulic STIC control pod
and electro-hydraulic implement control pod when adjusted.
The cab, isolation-mounted to the frame, is pressurised
with filtered air and the selected temperature is maintained automatically.
The control panel uses large, backlit switches with LED
indicators, and a simple two-position rocker switch controls the parking brake.
An optional rearview camera with in-cab monitor increases
operator awareness.
Maintainability has also been key, with maintenance points
grouped and accessible from ground level or non-skid walkways protected with
handrails.
Swing-out doors on both sides of the engine compartment
provide easy access to daily service checks, and ecology drains simplify
service and help prevent spills. In addition, a ground level power service centre has
electrical disconnect, emergency engine shutdown and stairway light switches.
The Cat VIMS 3F program is integrated into its design to
keep operators informed about machine operating conditions.
The Cat Product Link system provides event and diagnostic
codes as well as data such as operating
hours, fuel level, and idle time.
Regarding the dozer itself, it features a full box-section rear frame designed to resist
twisting forces and shock loads encountered in heavy dozing.
Steering cylinder mounts are designed to effectively
dissipate steering loads into the frame, and axle mounts are heavy-duty
components that contribute to the overall structural integrity.