Modern Quarrying April May 2015

ON THE COVER

Cat primary loading in eco-mode The new generation Cat 988K builds on the premium features of previous models to set new standards for high production loading in its weight class, combined with significant savings in fuel consumption. Innovation improvements include a redesigned loader linkage, drive train modifications, greater serviceability, and enhancements in safety. Barloworld Equipment is the Cat dealer for Southern Africa.

been a constant refinement in the 988 journey, with the latest Cat 988K being the most definitive model to date and also the seventh generation unit to see service. There are currently six models in Caterpillar’s large wheel loader line-up, namely the Cat 986H, Cat 988K, Cat 990K, Cat 992K, Cat 993K and Cat 994K. In standard lift, the Cat 988K is a respective three- and four-pass match for the Cat 770 and Cat 772 off-highway truck. In high-lift configuration, the Cat 988K loads Cat 773 and 775 units in five and six passes, respectively. The rated payload is 11,3 tonnes, with a selec- tion of Performance Series buckets available, rang- ing in capacity from 6,4 to 7,6 m³. Rock buckets are designed for face loading tightly compacted materials. General purpose buckets, in turn, are configured for loading loose stockpile material. To protect these buckets, Caterpillar fields a range of ground engaging tools (GET). These include side- bar protectors, general duty and penetration tips,

F rom the onset of its initial launch in 1963, the Cat 988 model series has es- tablished itself as a leader in the large wheel loader class for primary applica- tions in quarrying and mining, as well as for more specialist roles that include dimension stone block handling. Each successive model has benefitted from Caterpillar’s intensive research and development programmes, designed in consultation with cus- tomer requirements worldwide. The end result has

Production efficiencies on the Cat 988K are enhanced by the patented optimised Z-bar loader linkage, which replaces the mono-boom design on the previous generation Cat 988H series model.

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MODERN QUARRYING

April - May 2015