CATERPILLAR has announced that its new 988 GC wheel loader offers up to 5% less fuel consumption and up to 15% lower maintenance costs than the Cat 988K.
The new model is optimised as a 45-tonne truck match loader. Cat added that Its 3,909mm dump clearance delivers efficient loading up to the Cat 775G truck.
With bucket payload matched to the 988K, the new 988 GC is said to offer up to 670 tonnes/hour productivity in shot rock truck loading applications and up to 527 tonnes/hour for load-and-carry operations.
The structures of the new loader are built for ‘multiple’ life cycles and to withstand the toughest loading conditions. Built on the common Cat large wheel loader platform, the manufacturer revealed that its full box section rear frame resists torsional shock and twisting forces. The front frame has been redesigned to withstand larger loads and features a new lift arm design.
The model is powered by a Cat C15 engine, which offers configurations to emit equivalent to EU Stage IIIA or meet EU Stage V emissions standards. The cooling package offers higher heat rejection with an on-demand fan strategy and two available fan speed settings for standard and high-ambient-temperature configurations.
The Cat torque converter with standard lock-up clutch aims to eliminate losses, lower system heat, improve travel times and reduce cycle times in load-and-carry operations.
Designed specifically for quarry and mining applications, the Cat Advanced Power Electronic Control Strategy (APECS) transmission is described as offering ‘best-in-class’ performance. Forward momentum and torque are maintained when shifting for greater momentum on grades.
Load sensing hydraulics direct hydraulic flow to implement and steering systems only when needed. An optional ride control adds an auxiliary accumulator to the lift circuit for a ‘smoother’ ride.
Cat went on to say that maximum machine responsiveness is achieved through its Steering and Integrated Control (STIC) steering. The Cat Comfort Series III seat with seat-mounted implement pod moves with the seat to enhance comfort and reduce operator fatigue. An intuitive operator interface, touchscreen display and soft detent implement controls are all included. Machine vibration feedback is reduced using cab isolation mounts and seat air suspension, and an optional air cooled and heated seat is available.
The Z-bar front lift arm design boosts visibility to the bucket edges and work area. Bucket payload is aligned with the 988K models with a range of Cat performance series buckets available with capacities from 6.3 to 7.6 m3.
Cat said advanced filtration extends performance and reliability of the hydraulic system, while on-board diagnostics alerts the operator of machine issues so problems can be resolved before failure.
