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10
MODERN QUARRYING
April - May 2015
ON THE
COVER
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
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,
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.
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.