Modern Quarrying April May 2015

ON THE COVER

and standard and half arrow segments. “As with any mining or related concern, low- est owning and operating cost management has become the overriding consideration, with sav- ings in fuel burn being a major factor in driving down the cost per tonne,” comments Barloworld Equipment group product and application man- ager, Johann Venter. “In these respects, the Cat 988K delivers with up to a 20% improvement in fuel consumption compared to the previous Cat 988H machine (depending on operator training), plus there are notable mechanical improvements that help to maximise availability and boost overall longevity, given Caterpillar’s second and third life rebuild philosophy.” Powering the Cat 988K is a Tier 2/Stage II Cat C18 ACERT™ engine generating a 403 kW net power rating (SAE J1349), with the machine com- ing to market with an operating weight of around 51 062 kg. The all new Advanced Productivity Electronic Control Shifting (APECS) transmission controls pro- vide greater momentum on grades and fuel sav- ings by carrying that momentum through the shift points. Whilst in operation, electronic fuel con- trol ensures optimum performance and throttle response. Additional fuel savings accrue with the 988K ECO (Economy) Mode (on-demand throttle), and engine-idle shutdown and engine-idle kick- down/auto-resume systems. Utilising on-demand throttle, operators maintain routine operation with the left pedal and implements, while the Cat 988K manages the engine speed. The exclusive Cat impeller clutch torque converter (ICTC) enables operators to maximise

efficiency via the machine’s rimpull control system (RCS), whilst putting more horsepower to hydrau- lics. Advantages include reduced tyre slippage and wear, full throttle shifts for faster cycle times, and a smooth approach to the dump target for less spillage. The use of the standard lock-up clutch function also provides direct drive to boost fuel economy. Meanwhile, the Cat 988K’s Automatic Retarding Control (ARC) system utilises an optional compres- sion brake tomaintain desired downhill speeds and

Above: The Cat 998K’s rated payload is 11,3 t, with a selection of Performance Series buckets available, ranging in capacity from 6,4 to 7,6 m 3 . Top: Powering the Cat 988K is a Tier 2/Stage II Cat C18 ACERT™ engine generating a 403 kW net power rating (SAE J1349), with the machine coming to market with an operating weight of around 51 062 kg.

11

MODERN QUARRYING

April - May 2015