Capital Equipment News September 2017

for a unit with a high back-heated seat, one-piece sealed and pressurised cab, for example. Continued development The skid steer has also evolved over the years with a number of changing designs and general feature upgrades to meet the ever-changing matters of importance for end users. “Skid steer loaders have certainly evolved in terms of design changes over the years and the most notable are sealed cabs with factory-fitted air-conditioners as an option. Locally we have also flame-proofed skid steer loaders for coal mines, specifically for underground applications,” says Stansfield. Meanwhile, Caterpillar’s D-Series skid steer range incorporates several design innovations. Caterpillar is said to be the only manufacturer to offer one piece sealed/pressurised cab that offers advantages from a comfort, health and service standpoint. It protects from dusty environments and has a lower in-cab noise. The entire cab lifts up to provide easier access to the components underneath for servicing. “Hand controls move along the seats and adjust forward and back to allow operators to customise for comfortable operation,” says Rengaraju. Caterpillar also introduced an Advanced Display monitor where up to 50 different security codes can be set up. This can store and recall operating preferences for each code, allowing individual operators to tailor the machine to their experience level and application, a particularly useful feature for big fleet owners. With dangerous and hazardous environments in mind, Caterpillar also now offers a remote operating system. Either manual operation or remote control can be selected at the flick of a switch. “Skid steer loaders have certainly evolved in terms of design changes over the years and the most notable are sealed cabs with factory-fitted air-conditioners as an option. Locally we have also flame-proofed skid steer loaders for coal mines, specifically for underground applications.” Addressing shortcomings The skid steer loader, despite its popularity, has had a number of its own downsides, ranging from tyre wear to short loading heights, to mention a few. Rengaraju says skid steer loaders have traditionally delivered a rougher and bouncier ride that can affect operator comfort and material retention. To get the better of this shortcoming, Caterpillar’s speed-sensitive ride control system delivers a smooth ride by cushioning the loader arms, such as during carry and travel operation, by suspending the load to maximise material retention. “The speed sensitive ride control system automatically engages when the machine reaches its activation speed, which can be adjusted by the operator. It provides optimal ride performance and material retention during material transport. The system automatically disengages at speeds below activation speed to provide maximum digging and load placement performance. It allows for better material retention, increased productivity and greater operator comfort while working at higher operating speeds in rough terrain,” explains Rengaraju.

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