New Cat’s on the prowl in Malaga (Part Two)

Mon 03 Feb 2014

New Cat’s on the prowl in Malaga (Part Two)

The latest wheeled loading shovels from Caterpillar are the 966M, 966M XE, 972M, 972M XE and joining this line up in Malaga was the 982M model. These new machines meet the latest EU Stage IV emission standards, and offer considerable additional value including greater productivity, lower fuel consumption, improved operator efficiency and Cat Connect features.

The new models feature Cat’s C9.3 ACERT engines equipped with a combination of proven electronic, fuel, air and after-treatment components. Deep system integration results in reduced emissions, improved performance and improved fuel economy without interrupting machine performance, making running the machines a trouble free experience for operators.

The XE Advanced powertrain first introduced with the 966K XE continues with the 966M XE and the new 972M XE now joins the product line. The XE technology results in twenty five percent higher fuel efficiency on average compared to machines with traditional torque converters, and simplifies operation with a two pedal design while providing seemingly endless power.

The 966M and 972M powertrains have also been improved with the addition of lock-up clutch torque converters as standard. These new torque converters have also been matched with the engine power and hydraulics to improve performance and fuel efficiency and are another example of deep system integration. These rugged planetary transmissions also have a new split-flow oil system and use new multi-viscosity oil which improves fuel economy.

Operators will be delighted to hear that a host of improvements have been made to these latest models with them in mind. Accessible from ground level, a switch has been added which unlatches the cab door remotely, enabling the operator to enter safely. The angle of the steps up to the cab have also been increased to an optimal fifteen degrees enabling operators to walk up like stairs versus climbing more vertically like a ladder. Grab handles have been repositioned so a secure three points of contact can be maintained at all times.

Once in the cab, the new door securely seals against the new roll formed ROPS posts and the lower glass panel has been extended several centimetres to improve visibility to the left side of the machine. New larger convex mirrors improve visibility to the rear and integrated spot mirrors provide visibility close to both sides of the machine.

A new multipurpose color touch screen display dramatically simplifies the operator interface; with machine controls, rear view camera and new fully integrated Cat Production Measurement system. Intuitive navigation with in-language text enables operators to modify certain machine operating parameters and monitor machine conditions literally at the touch of their fingers. Some controls have been relocated to this new display eliminating the need for the second membrane switch pad further reducing cab clutter. Operator sound pressure level & exterior sound power level remain unchanged for the 966M and 972M at respectively 69 dB(A) and 108 dB(A). The 966M XE & 972M XE operating at lower engine speed, benefit from reduced noise levels at respectively 67 dB(A) and 105 dB(A).

The new Cat Connect system enables operators and managers to access machine operating data including total fuel consumption, average fuel rate, total idle time and fuel consumed at idle, total operating hours and several other machine data. Look out for more photos of new Cat products from my Malaga visit later this week here on the Digger Man Blog.

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New Cat’s on the prowl in Malaga (Part Two)

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