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CAPITAL EQUIPMENT NEWS
DECEMBER 2015
17
CONSTRUCTION
125 l/min to 160 l/min; and the 432F2
and 444F2 from 156 l/min to 163 l/min.
(The Cat 416F2’s pump capacity remains
unchanged at 132 l/min). All machines fea-
ture Caterpillar’s proprietary load sensing
hydraulics (where the variable flow system
senses the work demand and adjusts the
flow and pressure to match it).
“Essentially, what this means is that high
bucket breakout forces can be achieved,
whatever the engine speed. This provides
excellent control whilst reducing fuel con-
sumption,” explains Barloworld Equipment
product marketing manager for Cat Build-
ing Construction Products, Desigen Naick-
er. (Barloworld Equipment is Caterpillar’s
Southern African dealer.) Pilot controls
(where specified) provide low effort oper-
ation, with the ability to switch between
excavator or backhoe control patterns by a
press of a button.
A hydraulic quick coupler for the backhoe
is available direct from the factory, whilst
‘twist to disconnect’ couplings are fitted
for all work tools. The previous F Series
features ‘push to connect’ quick release
couplings.
F2 models feature a restyled cab for a more
modern look, designed throughout with the
operator in mind, including enhanced visi-
bility when the loader attachment is at full
height. The front windscreen and all other
areas use flat glass which enables a quick,
low-cost replacement whenever necessary.
Sound levels in the cab are now best in
class at 74 dB.
As an option, F2-Series units can be fitted
with a radio featuring blue-tooth connectiv-
ity, facilitating communication with job-site
personnel. A new keypad security system
(with up to 25 unique codes) provides
added protection for the machine, and a
choice of cellular or satellite technology is
available for use with the ProductLink™
telematics system. ProductLink enables
machine owners to view near real-time
machine positioning, utilisation and me-
chanical health data via the VisonLink™
online portal. This capability forms part of
Barloworld’s Equipment Management Solu-
tions (EMS) suite.
“Helping to build the world’s infrastructure
for the past three decades, Caterpillar’s
backhoe loaders keep on working and are
certain to continue playing their part in
building the future for many subsequent
generations,” adds Naicker.
Today, Cat backhoe loaders command a
global footprint, with 11 models manufac-
tured across three plants, namely Desford;
Thiruvallur, India; and Campo Largo, Brazil.
F2 machines destined for the Southern Af-
rican regional will continue to be sourced
from the UK.