3 minute read
NEW PRODUCTS
There are now four models in the new Caterpillar range of materials handlers, with operating weights ranging from 22 to almost 40 tonnes.
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FASTER AND SMARTER HANDLING
As Kyle Molyneux reports, Caterpillar has released more details about its new range of materials handlers and has introduced a further model, the MH3026
he previously announced models in Caterpillar’s new
Trange of materials handlers – 24.5t MH3022, 26.8t MH3024 and 38.5t MH3040 – have been joined by the 29.2t MH3026, which is primarily aimed at scrap metal and other waste applications. The newcomer is powered by an ultra-low emissions Stage 5 Cat engine rated at 171hp (128kW), featuring a new Eco setting for even better fuel economy. It powers a state-of-the-art electro-hydraulic system, which promises to reduce both cycle times and the fuel bill for this 13m-reach handler.
Cat claims a signifi cant increase in swing torque for the MH3026 over its old materials handlers, allowing the operator to produce faster cycle times. There is also a new heavy lift mode and hydraulic regeneration circuits on the working equipment
This new range is much more than a Stage 5 upgrade, offering a host of improvements for the operator while making life a lot easier for the service technician.
Visibility from the hydraulicallyelevating cab is excellent, and the new hydraulic system delivers faster cycles times and an improvement in fuel economy.
IN THE CAB
There is the choice of specifying Deluxe or Premium versions of Cat’s latest cab, on a hydraulic elevating mechanism offering a maximum cab height of 5.75m. The cabs come with a suite of high-tech sub-systems, including an E-fence, which prevents the machine’s working equipment moving outside of pre-defi ned parameters set by the operator. This system also includes a cab avoidance system, to prevent contact between the attachment and the cab.
Entry to the cab has been improved by a nearside tilting console. Inside there is a high-resolution, 10in touch-screen with a jog dial for navigating the controls. It includes a feature that enables operators to save their preferred joystick and power mode settings. There is also an ex-factory joystick steering option, which further improves visibility and space in the cab, as there is no steering column
Visibility is further boosted by the thin pillars on the new cab design, which is fi tted with large tempered glass windows. Various thicker, higher impact-resistant windscreens
and roof windows are available on the options list. Offside and rear cameras are fi tted as standard, and a full 360-degree system is available as an option.
MAINTENANCE BENEFITS
The engine’s exhaust gas after-treatment packs are maintenance-free. All daily maintenance points can be accessed from ground level, while a new service platform gives access to the upper service area. Cat reckons that its high-tech hydraulic oil fi lter lasts 50% longer than traditional designs, as change intervals are pushed out to 3000 hours. Anti-drain valves keep the hydraulic oil clean during fi lter replacement. All the fuel fi lters, including the air fi lter that features a new pre-cleaner, are changed at 1000 hours.
Such dramatic changes to service intervals follow a similar treatment applied to Cat’s tracked construction excavators. Over time it could mount up to a long-term maintenance saving of 20% on this new MH Series of handlers. Operators can monitor fi lter life and maintenance intervals on the in-cab screen, as can the site’s offi ce and the dealer.
As you would expect, the new machines come with Cat’s Product Link telematics system, capturing and sending data on its location, hours, fuel usage, productivity and idle time, together with any maintenance alerts or fault codes.
A ground-level shut-off switch stops all fuel to the engine and shuts down the machine. In the event of an unexpected loss of hydraulic pressure, boom and dipper stick check valves are fi tted as standard.
CAT HANDLERS BASIC SPECS
Model
MH3022 MH3024 MH3026 MH3040 Engine size 4cyl/4.4lit 6cyl/7.1lit Engine power 145hp 108kW 171hp 128kW 171hp 128kW 202hp 152kW Min weight (kg) 21,200 22,700 26,400kg n/a Max weight (kg) 24,500 26,800 29,200 38,500 Max reach 10.28m 12.01m 13.00m 15.49m Max height 11.71m 13.03m 14.27m 17.51m
