Caterpillar have announced a new range of dozer and motor grader technologies for 2021. Keep reading for more information on the range, available soon from CAT dealer Finning UK & Ireland.
Caterpillar launches new mastless CAT grade with 3D for motor graders at ConExpo-Con/AGG 2020 (pictured above)
The new Cat GRADE with 3D for motor graders allows contractors to realize the improved grading efficiency, accuracy and productivity of automated grading systems without the limitations associated with GPS masts. The new integrated mastless grade system can be installed and calibrated at the factory on new machine orders or as a field retrofit for existing models in customers’ fleets. Retrofit kits are available for pre- and post-2019 M Series models equipped with or without the Attachment Ready Option (ARO).
Previous GPS systems for motor graders required 6-ft-tall (1.8-m) masts mounted to the ends of the moldboard, exposing the components to potential damage and theft. The antennas/receivers were often removed and installed daily, limiting the machine’s time in the dirt, and the masts limited the blade’s range of motion. The masts also limited the types of applications for the motor grader.
With GNSS antenna/receivers mounted on the cab and front chassis of the motor grader, the new Cat GRADE with 3D system offers a factory installed solution that significantly reduces the potential for component damage and theft as well as eliminates the need for daily removal. Removing the masts and cables deliver maximum productivity and full range of motion for the moldboard.
The new Cat GRADE with 3D system delivers incredible accuracy and efficiency, while improving productivity. By offering automatic blade control, the system reduces manual operator inputs and allows operators to be more productive. E-Fence comes from the factory for Cat GRADE with 3D. When activated, E-Fence prevents the moldboard from contacting the tires and ladder and prevents the circle from potentially damaging to the link bar.
With the new Cat GRADE with 3D, no longer do contractors need to dedicate one machine to GPS. Cat motor graders equipped with the new mastless system can work on a broad range of applications, including bank slope, cutting passes, mixing materials, ditch building, clearing and back slope, and high slope.
Cat 140, 150 and 160 motor graders will be the first models equipped with the new mastless Cat GRADE with 3D. The system is installed on the Cat 150 motor grader at CONEXPO-CON/AGG 2020 in Caterpillar booth #F4455, located at the show’s new outdoor Festival Grounds. Production of the new GRADE system will begin in the second half of 2020.
New CAT 140 GC motor grader produces high performance at low cost per hour\
The new Cat® 140 GC motor grader is designed to combine high performance with low owning and operating costs. The 140 GC’s powerful Cat C7.1 engine, 6F/3R automatic power-shift transmission (which eliminates the inching pedal), and precisely designed hydraulic system ensure balanced performance in all operating situations. An ECO operating mode and demand-fan reduce fuel consumption, and extended maintenance intervals further reduce operating costs. Operators of all skill levels quickly achieve high production with the 140 GC, and options that include adjustable seats and efficient heating/cooling systems guarantee comfort.
With 45 years of refinement, the 140 GC’s conventional steering wheel and lever controls are familiar to operators and ensure positive control. The control console adjusts to the operator’s preference, and the powerful heating and cooling system option dehumidifies and pressurizes the cab, while circulating fresh air to seal out dust and keep windows clear. Seat upgrades include mechanical or air suspension; static seat is standard.
The 140 GC’s standard no-spin differential activates with no operator input to increase traction in poor ground conditions and to protect drive-train components from damage. The all-wheel-drive option provides added performance in rough terrain or poor underfoot conditions. Optimized machine balance ensures maximum drawbar power to the ground. Adding the 4.3 m (14 ft) moldboard option offers more road coverage. The optional Digital Blade Slope Meter takes the guesswork out of slope control and keeps the job site safer by eliminating manual grade checks. Cat Detect with Vision System (optional) uses a rearview camera to show a wide view behind the machine.
New High Drive Cat D7 Dozer delivers more performance and unmatched productivity-boosting technology
The new Cat® D7 dozer offers high drive undercarriage design, increased performance and the broadest choice of easy-to-use technology features to help customers get the most from the bulldozer. A fully automatic 4-speed transmission offers optimal fuel and dozing efficiency, plus ease of operation. At 197 kW (265 hp) and an operating weight of 29,776 kg (65,644 lbs), the new D7 dozer replaces the D7E.
Next Generation Value
The D7 moves up to 8 percent more material per hour than the D7E, with about 6 percent more weight and 12 percent more horsepower. Blade capacity is increased by 10 percent, and the elevated sprocket undercarriage delivers better ride and balance, as well as increased penetration force.
Like the D6 and D8T, the new D7 is driven by a fully automatic 4-speed transmission. The smooth-shifting transmission continuously adjusts for maximum efficiency and power to the ground without added operator input.
The completely redesigned cab, common with the D5 and D6/D6 XE, raises the standard in comfort and productivity. Operators will find more space, multiple seat and control adjustments for optimal comfort and an easy-to-use 254-mm (10-in) touchscreen operator interface. A standard High Definition rearview camera shows prominently in the main display.
Unprecedented Technology Choices
The D7 leads the industry with a variety of technology offerings that are easy to use and help customers get the most from an equipment investment. Slope Indicate is standard with the premium display package, showing machine main fall and cross-slope for easy reference.
ARO with Assist is a grade-ready option bundled with basic blade control and a new set of assist features that work in the background to help operators get more done in less time.
- Cat Grade with Slope Assist™ provides basic blade positioning assistance without added hardware or a GPS signal. Updated main display makes the system intuitive and easy to use.
- Factory Attachment Ready Option (ARO) provides optimal mounting locations, brackets, and hardware and simplifies installation of any brand of grade control system.
- Blade Load Monitor gives real-time feedback on current vs. optimal blade load to help optimize blade capacity.1
- Second generation Stable Blade works seamlessly with operator blade inputs for smoother surfaces.
- Traction Control automatically reduces track slip to save time, fuel and track wear.1
- AutoCarry automates blade lift to help maintain consistent blade load and help reduce track slip.1
Customers can also add factory integrated Cat Grade with 3D. Advanced Inertial Measuring Units (IMU) provide greater speed and accuracy without position sensing cylinders. Small antennas are integrated into the cab roof for better protection and GPS receivers are mounted inside so they can be secured by locking the cab doors. An intuitive 254-mm (10-in) Grade operator interface works like a smart phone, making it easy for operators to pick up quickly. Android OS platform allows installation of custom apps for more versatility.
Remote Control Ready
The D7 is Remote Control Ready from the factory. Internal components are integrated into machine systems and an external connector allows dealer installation of a plug-and-play roof-mounted remote control unit. Cat Command for Dozing2 provides a remote control solution for enhanced safety and greater productivity and is offered as a Command Console for line-of-sight (LOS) remote control, or with a Command Station for LOS and non-line-of-sight (NLOS) remote control.
Connect to Greater Efficiency
Cat Link telematics technology helps take the complexity out of managing job sites – by gathering data generated by equipment, materials, and people – and serving it up in customizable formats.
- Product Link™ collects data automatically and accurately from equipment assets – any type and any brand – which can be viewed online through web and mobile applications.
- Access information anytime, anywhere with VisionLink®. Cat dealers can help configure a customized subscription, available with cellular or satellite reporting or both.
- The Cat App helps manage assets – at any time – right from a smartphone.
- Remote Troubleshoot saves time and money by allowing the Cat dealer to perform diagnostic testing remotely. Remote Flash updates on-board software without a technician being present, at a convenient time, potentially reducing update time by as much as 50 percent.
- Application Profile and Operator ID help save time by saving preferred machine settings.
- Machine Security – Passcode provides an optional additional level of security by requiring an operator to enter an ID before the machine will start.
Equipped for the Job
The D7 is available in Standard or Low Ground Pressure (LGP) configurations, with a variety of blade and track shoe choices to optimize the machine for the intended application.
The D7 can also be ordered with specialized guarding to take on the challenges of Waste/Landfill work and Forestry/Land Clearing. In addition to machine protection against impacts and airborne debris, these specialty dozers can be ordered with an impact-resistant cab, application-specific undercarriage and a specialty blade.
