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CAPITAL EQUIPMENT NEWS

FEBRUARY 2016

24

B

ased on customer input, Caterpillar

is working on a multi-generational

product development plan, dedicat-

ed to creating optimum site solutions. With

significant testing and design improve-

ments, this will bring products to market

faster. In turn, Caterpillar continues to

enhance existing undercarriage systems

across its model range.

A prime example is its sleeve bearing track

system, which has more than ten years of

proven performance in the field. This pat-

ented design has demonstrated its ability

to eliminate galling between pins and bush-

ings, thereby increasing track life. Extend-

ed intervals for bushing turns also reduce

maintenance interventions.

Standard on all Cat D11N, D11R, and D11T

track-type tractors, this undercarriage sys-

tem is designed to operate at higher speeds

and greater loads.

A more heavy duty track option is available

for D11 size machines, which is ideal for

abrasive conditions. This 100 percent pro-

prietary system features a taller, tough steel

link combined with patented bushing and

sleeve bearings. This system provides for

a 2 to 1 wear ratio between the links and

bushings; alternatively, a 1 to 1 wear ratio

for a ‘run to destruction’ methodology with-

out a bushing turn. (The need for a turn is

dependent on application and conditions.)

Caterpillar’s new rotary drilling range is an-

other example of how recent research and

development (R&D) improvements are pass-

ing on cost per tonne savings.

“A heavier track chain design increases

durability for handling high field loads,” ex-

plains Barloworld Equipment group product

specialist, Deon Delport. “Plus the standard

fitment of grease lubricated track reduces

pitch extension wear for 20-40% increased

chain life.” (Barloworld Equipment is the Cat

dealer for southern Africa.)

Larger diameter idlers and a larger track

roller tread reduce contact stress with the

track links; and double flange rollers im-

prove primary track guiding. In turn, stron-

ger, welded roller guard assembly improves

secondary track guiding.

Backing Caterpillar’s proprietary engineering

designs are a series of Undercarriage As-

surance Programmes, which provide com-

prehensive support beyond standard new

machine or parts warranties. They cover all

major moving undercarriage components on

Cat track-type tractors, track-type loaders,

and track-type hydraulic excavators.

The following are key examples for track-

type tractors:

• Undercarriage Assurance Gold is a

leakage and breakage programme for

D11 sleeve bearing track. The Gold

coverage period is four years or 6 000

hours, whichever occurs first.

• Undercarriage Assurance Genuine is a

leakage and breakage programme for all

other large track-type tractor machines.

Genuine coverage is four years or 4 000

hours, whichever occurs first.

UNDERCARRIAGE R&D

on dozers and drills