Modern Quarrying April May 2015

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April - May 2015 MODERN QUARRYING 13
ON THE COVER
Machine access: left and right-
hand stairs with 45o angle
enhance safety for operators
getting on and off the Cat 988K.
reduce service brake wear. Positive Flow Control
implement hydraulics use a variable displacement,
electronically controlled pump to precisely appor-
tion oil flow based on control lever movement.
Onboard, fuel monitoring is provided by an all-
new operator station, which features the Cat Next
Generation Vital Information Management System
(VIMS) display. This enables expanded capabili-
ties, including real-time fuel consumption and fuel
efficiency (material loaded per unit of fuel) data,
through an interactive touch screen.
Production efficiencies are further enhanced by
the patented Optimised Z-bar loader linkage, which
replaces the 988H’s mono-boom design. “The new
design, using solid steel lift arms in either a stan-
dard or high-lift configuration, reduces machine
height at maximum lift yet increases dump clear-
ance,” explains Venter. “The design also shortens
machine length for greater manoeuvrability.” This
is also a much quieter machine. In-cab sound levels
are considerably reduced to 71,1 dB(A), down from
74,2 dB(A) in the 988H, and the cab temperature
control system is automatic and continuously vari-
able. The Cat Comfort III seat features integrated
controls for smooth and comfortable operation;
whilst the transmission controls, integral with
the STIC™ (Steering and Transmission Integrated
Control System) steering lever, allow convenient
travel control.
STIC enables maximum responsiveness, com-
bining directional selection, gear selection and
steering into a single lever. A simple side-to-side
motion turns the machine right or left, minimising
operator movements. On the move and for added
safety, a standard rearview camera system provides
crisp images via the in-cab monitor.
For added safety, a remote panel houses a
stairway light switch, engine shutdown switch,
and lockouts for the transmission and engine
starter: a second panel provides convenient access
to the battery disconnect switch and a jump-start
receptacle. Routine maintenance points are easily
accessed, including hydraulic pressure taps and oil
sampling ports.
Options for the 988K include the Cat Payload
Control System and Cat Detect Object Detection.
The latter builds on the standard Cat camera sys-
tem with radar coverage: in-cab software provides
notification to the operator when an object is
detected. Other options include an integrated axle
cooling package, ride control, a fast-fill fuelling
system, automatic lube system, three-spool valve,
high-speed oil-change system, LED lighting, and
cold-start package.
The Cat 988K is fitted standard with Caterpillar’s
Product Link™ telematics system. Product Link
is the transmitting hardware for Caterpillar’s
internet portal, VisionLink™ which provides a
host of services forming part of the Equipment
Management Solutions (EMS) condition monitor-
ing suite. This includes near real-time monitoring
of fuel burn rates, machine utilisation, operator
performance data, and mechanical health.
As with machine design, the wheel loader con-
figuration, operator technique, and job site layout
form an essential component in downstream effi-
ciencies that will impact fuel consumption, either
positively or negatively. Key factors to consider
here include the correct work tool and tyres (plus
correct inflation pressures) based on machine
application.
“Also spot loading targets in the right posi-
tion and avoid travelling more than 1,5 tyre revo-
lutions during truck loading cycles,” adds Venter.
“Operators should also load in first gear, avoid lift
lever detent and use impeller clutch, and through-
out, we recommend using the ECO mode setting
for maximum efficiency.”
Front cover and story sponsored by Barloworld
Equipment, the Cat dealer for Southern Africa