Cat releases forestry excavators

Caterpillar has added two new models to its forestry range  - the 548 and 548 LL (log loader) that are designed to handle a range of forestry tasks including road building, site preparation, shovel logging, log loading and more.

The new machines come with a myriad of new and improved features, including new Tier 4 emissions standard compliant engines with fuel saving features, as well as an enhanced hydraulic system to handle the toughest of jobs.

According to Caterpillar, the Cat 548 is configured for forestry tasks ranging from road building and site preparation to processing logs roadside or at a landing. The Cat 548 LL is configured as a log loader and can perform log handling tasks, such as shovel logging, loading, power clam or butt-n-top applications, and millyard activities.

The machines are powered by CAT’s C7.1 ACERT engine offering 204hp. While they meet emission regulations, Cat says there are no compromises on power as the excavators offer increased horsepower that maintains maximum performance under load.

Cat adds swing torque has been boosted by 20 per cent and tractive effort by 13 per cent, allowing operators to move trees and handle larger payloads with improved control off-road.

The 548 and 548 LL also feature an enhanced hydraulic system with upsized pumps, an optimised component layout and back-to-back main control valve that optimise hydraulic oil flow for a higher level of efficiency and power.

The hydraulic updates enable the 548 and 548 LL engine to run at a lower steady state rpm while maximising power, hence providing significant fuel savings and lower operating costs.

Tier 4 Final technology and features like a variable pitch fan, variable power modes, automatic engine speed control, one-touch idle, and boom and stick regeneration valves provide excellent fuel economy.

With automatic engine speed control, the machines will revert automatically to a lower idle speed when there is a lull in operation. Regeneration valves minimise oil required from the pump, which maximises efficiency.

Both machines offer boom and hydraulic configurations specific to forestry work, enabling operators to carry out tasks at hand more efficiently.

New track options meet shovel logging and low ground pressure application requirements, and ground saw hydraulics are available for log loader applications.

In addition to the standard cab, a purpose-built processor cab option is available for both machine models, and two premium rear entry cab choices are available for the 548 LL.

Inside the cab, comfort features include an air-ride seat with heating and cooling capabilities as well as a bi-level air conditioner, heater, and defroster to keep the cab at a comfortable temperature in any weather.

Other features include a satellite radio, 12-volt power supply socket for charging, a larger monitor, and LED lights. Standard tool control software enables quick, efficient selection and swapping of tools.

New rear entry cab options provide convenient access on a fully lit platform through the use of a key fob. For these rear entry cabs, a new cab forward riser and optimised window design improve visibility for shovel logging and other applications.

Like other Cat machines, the 548 and 548 LL are designed and built for durable performance in the severest of forestry applications. The purpose-built upper frame, high-wide carbody, robust linkage configurations, and heavy-duty enclosures feature thick doubler plates, extra gussets, and other weldments and reinforcements.

Upsized 216mm (8.5inch) pitch (336 HEX) grease-lubricated tracks provide excellent life in forestry applications.

Both 548 and 548 LL machines come with the Cat Product Link program that allows for remote location of a machine and tracking of fuel consumption and other indicators.