Cat updates 988K XE electric-drive wheel loader

Caterpillar says its updated electric-drive Cat 988K XE wheel loader now offers faster downhill speeds of up to 10 per cent, improved rimpull, and increased hydraulic breakout force for production gains of up to five per cent.

The vehicle also now benefits from an updated design said to improve cycle times in load and carry applications, while an optional counterweight is available to offer improved stability and faster maneuverability.

The model has a new Go-Pedal with three dynamic braking levels for easier single right-hand pedal operation, while Standard Tyre Slip Prevention enhances traction and extends tyre life.

Cat claims the new Cat Autodig feature, an option, is said to increase dig cycle optimisation by up to 10 per cent, while Auto Set Tyres sets the front tyres to promote proper loading techniques.

Lift stall prevention technology automatically manages rimpull in-dig to prevent hydraulic stall while lifting through the face, so the 988K XE spends less time in the pile.

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On-the-job coaching

Cat Operator Coaching, meanwhile, fosters proper operating techniques, assisting operators by showing them how to properly shorten travel, avoid unracking in-dig, enter the pile with a level bucket, reduce the dump height and use the kickout. Caterpillar says this feature can result in up to 15 per cent less fuel consumption.

Compared to the standard 988K, the switch reluctance electric drive technology in the 988K XE is said to improve overall efficiency by 25 per cent, while also delivering face-loading application efficiency of up to 49 per cent.

The Cat C18 engine’s economy mode delivers further efficiency gains, while the wheel loader’s increased hydraulic speed and faster cycle times reduce idle time and fuel burn.

Cat says the greenhouse gas reductions achieved through operating the electric drive versus the mechanical drive model are equivalent to up to one year of electricity use for nearly 10 homes.

A new steering and integrated control valve offer up to 47 per cent quieter operation, and the system delivers precise machine control with minimal arm movements to increase comfort and improve loading accuracy and efficiency.

Meanwhile, a new rimpull control system modulates the left pedal from 100 per cent to 25 per cent, reduces the potential for wheel slippage without reducing hydraulic efficiency. And the loader’s new positive flow control hydraulic system is said to increase efficiency, bucket feel and responsiveness.

Precise payloads

With data displayed inside the cabin in real-time, available Cat Payload on the 988K XE provides accurate weighing of loaded materials to reduce instances of overloading and underloading. When combined with optional Advanced Productivity technology, the 988K XE provides a wealth of payload information to help improve operational productivity.

Cat Vision is standard and enhances visibility behind the loader, while the vehicle features 43-degree steering articulation to achieve precise positioning in tight areas.

The loader offers a rated payload of 11.3 tonnes when working with face material and 14.5 tonnes with loose material and can be equipped with a range of buckets with capacities from 4.7 to 13 cubic metres.

It is performance matched to offer efficient three-pass loading of the 38.2-tonne Cat 770G and four-pass loading of the 46.8-tonne Cat 772G. Its high-lift configuration delivers five-pass loading of the 55.3-tonne Cat 773G and six-pass loading of the 64-tonne Cat 775G.

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