Cat lands 740 GC articulated dump truck

Caterpillar has added the 740 GC with a payload capacity of 40 tonnes to its Articulated Dump Truck (ADT) range, equipped with Cat’s proven features also offered in other models in the range.

This includes new controls, transmission-protection features, hoist-assist system, advanced traction-control system, stability-assist system, and a fuel-saving ECO mode.

The new 740 GC is powered by the Cat C15 ACERT engine available in configurations to meet emission standards of both highly regulated (HRC) and less regulated (LRC) countries. Transmission is the Cat CX38B.

The 740 GC also incorporates the latest automatic retarder-control system and a ‘wait-brake’, which temporarily applies the service brakes during pauses in the work cycle for reduced operator effort and fatigue. A hill-start system automatically holds the machine on grades, allowing the operator to move from the service brake to the throttle with no roll-back on slopes.

The 740 GC cab features the new ‘external spinal-ROPS’, which is also on other Cat ADTs in the range. The cab incorporates a rear-quarter glass that eliminates a structural pillar, resulting in enhanced rear visibility. Also, a ‘wake-up’ feature initiates machine displays when the door is opened.

Cat said the door itself is lighter and stronger than previous designs and more effectively seals against dust infiltration. The overall cab design results in interior sound levels of 72 dB(A).

Optional infrared glass reduces solar heating inside the cab, and left- and right-hand sliding windows increase ventilation, while also facilitating communication with workers and the loader operator. An automatic climate-control (HVAC) system positions more vents above and behind the operator for increased heating and cooling efficiency.

A heated/cooled seat is available as an option which allows operators to ‘dial in’ personal comfort settings.

For added safety, a lighting system, controlled via a ground-level switch, illuminates the cab's entry steps and hitch area as part of the ‘wake up’ feature. Optional long-range LED work lights are available to improve visibility at night.

Optional integrated payload lights provide an external indication of payload levels for the loader operator or site supervisor, helping to ensure proper loading. Exterior features include a redesigned, flexible lower fender and a low-profile exhaust stack that need not be removed for transport.

The optional Cat Connect PAYLOAD technology calculates payload via sensors on the walking-beam suspension and includes load-status lights at all four corners of the cab roof.

In addition, the standard Cat Detect/Stability-Assist system monitors the working angle of the tractor and body, as well as the grade, and cautions the operator if the machine is approaching a set threshold angle, stopping the dump process if continued action might result in tipping.

Further safety features include Cat’s Advanced Automatic Traction Control (AATC) system, which proactively applies differential locks to avoid wheel spin. This protects tyres from unnecessary wear and lowers owning and operating costs.

A combined transmission-and-hoist lever provides efficient, single-lever control of gear selection and body-hoisting functions for reduced operator effort.

A mode switch in the cab allows operators to choose either manual or assisted-hoisting control, with the latter selection allowing the automatic application of the wait brake, shifting of the transmission to neutral, and raising of the body to maximum angle at engine high idle when the hoist is momentarily flicked to the ‘raise’ position.

The assisted-hoisting mode also allows automatic return of the body to the lowered position, when the hoist control is momentarily flicked to the ‘lower’ position. Both raise and lower functions feature automatic speed reduction and cushioning of the body at the limits of its movement, reducing forces that could cause shock loads.

Controls for limiting machine speed for transmission gear-hold and for wait-brake application are easily engaged using buttons on the combined transmission and hoist lever.

In addition, a shift-protection system brings the truck to a safe stop if a directional shift is made while the truck is moving. The shifting and hoisting lever also incorporates the parking brake position. In the unlikely event of primary and secondary service brake system failure, a red emergency-brake button—located on the right-hand side of the dashboard—will apply the parking brake.