Capital Equipment News February 2022

GRADERS

Although John Deere has not introduced new models recently the company has focused on developing onboard technology

The SANY SMG200 is equipped with adjustable suspension seat, air-conditioning with heater, LED work lights and a rear camera

“Market drivers for graders include price point, return on investment, versatility and total cost of ownership.”

spin with no input from the operator and the on-demand fan further help drive down fuel consumption.” The easy to maintain and service 120 GC grader offers extended maintenance cycles with longer filter replacement intervals. Filters are grouped centrally for easier access and faster service. Fuel consumption and machine location can be viewed through Product Link and its web interface, Visionlink. Cat Remote Flash sends an alert from the dealer to prompt users to update the software on their machines. Cat Remote Trouble Shoot reduces the need for technicians to travel to job sites to fix issues. “Users receive maintenance alerts and diagnostic codes to schedule maintenance and avoid unplanned downtime,” says Chaffardon. “Contractors in Africa really appreciate this service, especially when working in remote locations.” shutdown to turn off the engine after an operator-determined idle period, so saving fuel and reducing wear on the engine, transmission and hydraulic components. “Our machines also have variable-speed, hydraulically driven fans that run only as fast or as often as necessary to keep things cool and to clean out any dirt that may accumulate in the cooling pack. This helps to conserve power and fuel while reducing noise,” says Makgate. “Eco mode reduces engine revolutions in gears 1 – 5 when engaged, optimising fuel usage and decreasing operating costs by up to 10%.” Lower power consumption The SANY SMG series’ load sensing hydraulic Saving diesel and reducing TCO John Deere’s graders feature auto

Graham Forte, MD of CASE Construction

“Following Caterpillar’s introduction in southern Africa of the Cat 140 GC grader, the company has announced the 120 GC model.”

Jean-Baptiste Chaffardon, Caterpillar motor grader product application specialist

“Key drivers for the motor grader industry are mining, government projects, the construction industry and agriculture.”

Griffiths Makgate, John Deere Construction & Forestry sales manager

TALKING POINTS

Fuel efficiency and extended maintenance cycles Chaffardon says Caterpillar’s 120 GC is powered by the fuel-efficient Cat C4.4 engine. “The standard Eco mode further reduces fuel consumption without impacting operation,” he says. “Several features such as the drive system no-spin differential which prevents wheel

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