New Technology = New Levels of Efficiency
Equipment manufacturer Caterpillar is proving that even proven favorites can be built upon. Built on a solid switch reluctance technology foundation leveraging more than 15 years of electric drive experience, updates to the Cat 988K XE deliver up to 10% faster downhill speed, improved rimpull, and increased hydraulic breakout force—all equating to an 5% increase in overall production.
Cat has revealed that their updated design improves cycle times in load and carry applications. The 988K XE's optional counterweight aims at increasing stability and offers faster maneuverability with these tasks. A new Go-Pedal for the 988K XE features three braking levels to give operators easier single right-hand pedal operation. Standard Tire Slip Prevention is designed to reduce tire slip and wear to increase tire life and lower owning costs.
The 988K XE's new optional Cat Autodig features are aimed at simplifying the digging phase to increase dig cycle optimization by up to 10%. Further reducing tire slip and wear, available Auto Set Tires sets the front tires to promote proper loading techniques. Lift stall prevention technology automatically manages rimpull in-dig to prevent hydraulic stall while lifting through the face, resulting in the 988K XE spending less time in the pile.
Maximizing Efficiency With Specialized Training
Teaching proper operating techniques, Cat is also announcing Cat Operator Coaching to help increase machine efficiency and deliver up to 15% faster cycle times as well as 10% better bucket fill factors. Among other procedures, the training will show participants how to properly shorten travel, avoid unracking in-dig, enter the pile with a level bucket, reduce the dump height, and use the kickout. The coaching feedback also results in up to 15% less fuel consumption.
Increased Equipment Efficiency
The switch reluctance electric drive technology of the 988K XE is slated to increase overall efficiency by 25% and face-loading application efficiency by up to 49% compared to the 988K. New "Economy mode" operation is aimed at reducing rated speed of the durable Cat C18 engine to further reduce fuel consumption. Increased hydraulic speed and faster cycle times achieved by the 988K XE are projected to decrease idle times and fuel burn to increase loader efficiency. Greenhouse gas reductions through operating the electric drive versus the mechanical drive model are equivalent to up to a year of electricity use for nearly 10 homes.
Quieter Equipment Performance
The Cat 988K XE's new steering and integrated control (STIC™) valve offer up to 47% quieter operation. The system delivers precise machine control with minimal arm movements to increase comfort and improve loading accuracy and efficiency. Modulating the left pedal from 100% to 25%, the new rimpull control system (RSC) reduces the potential for wheel slippage without reducing hydraulic efficiency. The loader’s new positive flow control (PFC) hydraulic system increases efficiency, bucket feel and responsiveness to deliver consistent performance.
Instant Load Data
The Cat 988K XE also comes with Cat Payload—displaying system data in real-time for the operator. This technology allows the 988K XE to show accurate weighing of loaded materials and improve truck loading efficiency by reducing overloading and underloading. When combined with optional Advanced Productivity technology, the 988K XE provides comprehensive actionable payload information to help improve operational productivity and profitability.
Increased Visibility & Control
With standard Cat Vision to enhance visibility behind the loader, the 988K XE features 43-degree steering articulation to achieve precise positioning in tight areas for efficient truck loading.
The loader offers a rated payload of 11.3 tonnes (12.5 tons) when working with face material and 14.5 tonnes (16 tons) with loose material. The loader can also be equipped with a range of buckets with capacities from 4.7-13 m3 (6.2-17 yd3). This performance is matched to offer efficient 3-pass loading of the 38.2-tonne (42.1-ton) Cat 770G and 4-pass loading of the 46.8-tonne (51.6-ton) Cat 772G. Its high-lift configuration delivers 5-pass loading of the 55.3-tonne (61-ton) Cat 773G and 6-pass loading of the 64-tonne (70.5-ton) Cat 775G.
For more information about the electric drive Cat 988K XE large wheel loader, contact the local Cat dealer or visit https://www.cat.com.