Caterpillar is expanding its OEM options for large machines to include versatile frontless hydraulic shovels weighing over 100 tonnes.
Cat OEM solutions are essentially blank bodies of Cat machines (up until now only available for articulated and off-highway trucks) that can be customised and refined to meet specific customer requirements.
Cat is now offering models from the 6015B to the 6090 hydraulic shovel range (606kW to 3360kW) in frontless configurations for both mobile and pedestal-mounted applications. The move allows for the use of larger specialty front attachments with greater capabilities and flexibility.
Cat says the idea behind frontless hydraulic shovels is to cut costs for the customer by allowing them to only purchase the parts and equipment that’s needed. At the same time, one machine can be used for multiple jobs by swapping the attachments as needed.
Frontless hydraulic shovels are typically paired with non-standard front attachments and work tools, and are suited to specialty applications such as amphibious marine construction, dredging and coastal protection, bulk material handling, demolition and quarry work.
Cat says the frontless hydraulic shovels are supported by Cat dealers globally and offer a robust and powerful platform for a broad range of applications.
The units are available as tracked mobile options or as ‘upper-only’ arrangements for permanent installation on a pedestal. The upper section can use the standard carbody as a structural mounting platform and can also be supplied with or without a swing-drive system as needed.