Following the release of the 962K last year, Caterpillar has recently rolled out the 950K, 966K, 972K and 980K wheel loaders into the Australian market.
The company says the K series machines features improvements over previous models designed to boost performance, fuel efficiency and operator safety while reducing emissions.
Caterpillar Global Construction and Infrastructure Asia‐Pacific Marketing Director Phillip Pollock says the K series represents a new class of wheel loaders aiming to redefine standards of productivity, through technology integration and operator refinement.
“Understanding our customer’s needs remains our top priority, and while every job is different, the goal is always the same- a quality job, delivered on time, to specifications, at or under budget,” he says.
“We feel that K series will help our customers meet these challenges head on. They offer outstanding value for money across a wide range of applications.”
He says the smaller machines are excellent for utility applications while the larger models such as the 966K and the 980K are the perfect work-horse for sites such as quarries.
“Ultimately, K series is a smart decision for any business. They’re designed to be durable for consistent hard work, but also to ensure owning and operating costs are kept as low as possible.”
K series features
The new series features US Tier 4 interim compliant engines, a new operator station, an improved electro-hydraulic steering with joystick (available on larger models only) or steering wheel control, Cat Performance Series Buckets and a more efficient drive train.
Caterpillar says the Performance Series Buckets which comes standard with the K series have been developed especially for production loading, delivering faster fill times and better material retention-reducing cycle time and improving productivity and fuel efficiency.
Other work tools including specialty buckets, pallet forks, mill yard and logging forks, material handling arms, rakes and ploughs can be attached to the loader for a wider application range.
Caterpillar adds a newly redesigned cab on the K series machines aims to offer improved operator comfort in order to increase productivity.
The cab features new steps with greater inclination for easy access; a wider door opening, well-placed grab bars and a new front-hinged door for ease of entry and exit; and sliding windows on both sides that can be opened and closed with one hand while seated, making it easier to communicate with people on the ground.
A streamlined four-post ROPS design and a new operator position that has been moved slightly forward enhance visibility to the front and sides, providing 315 degrees of unimpeded vision, while a standard rear-view camera with large color monitor enhances visibility to the back of the machines.
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