Caterpillar introduce the 990K Aggregate Handler
New, specially designed wheel loader boosts production in aggregates rehandling applications
CATERPILLAR have introduced the new 990K Aggregate Handler, which has been designed to handle greater payloads in aggregates yard applications. Offering up to a 25% payload increase compared with the standard 990K wheel loader, the new Aggregate Handler allows customers to load trucks and rail wagons faster and to move more material in load-and-carry and stockpile handling tasks.
Making best use of general-purpose and coal buckets for increased volume, the Cat 990K Aggregate Handler has a payload of 20 tonnes and a full turn static tipping load of 43,738kg. Additional counterweight maintains machine stability, whilst robust 990K structures ensure durability in the Aggregate Handler configuration.
The 990K Aggregate Handler is available in standard lift configuration with 4.11m dump clearance and in high-lift configuration with 4.57m dump clearance. Increased capacity and high dump clearance allow customers to load rail wagons and large trucks with a better pass match for faster material handling at lower cost per tonne.
Whilst the 990K Aggregate Handler complements the smaller 986K and 988K Aggregate Handlers in the Cat large wheel loader line, the machine is not designed for use in quarry face or other shot rock applications.
The new 990K Aggregate Handler is built on the proven features of the 990K wheel loader, with a powertrain that provides powerful operation with superior fuel efficiency. The Cat C27 engine delivers net power of 699hp (521kW), whilst lower engine speed helps drive economical fuel use. Additional fuel savings accrue with the ECO Mode (on-demand throttle), engine-idle shutdown system, and engine-idle kickdown/auto-resume system.
Moreover, Caterpillar’s exclusive, field-proven impeller clutch torque converter uses a lock-up clutch, providing direct drive to further boost fuel economy, trim cycle times, and reduce heat, especially in load-and-carry applications. The system allows operators to balance rimpull and hydraulic power for optimum loading efficiency, whilst Positive Flow Control implement hydraulics use a variable-displacement, electronically controlled pump to precisely apportion oil flow based on operator control inputs.
A number of drivetrain options are available, with integrated axle cooling and ride control options being particularly beneficial in load-and-carry work.
The operator station features the Cat Vital Information Management System, VIMS 3G, which provides customizable operator profiles, a cycle timer and an integral Payload Control System for on-the-go payload weighing. The graphical information display is easy to use and keeps key information in front of the operator. The Cat Comfort III seat provides integrated seat-mounted controls for smooth and comfortable operation. Transmission controls, integral with the STIC steering lever, allow convenient travel control.
For enhanced operator awareness, especially in congested loading areas, the 990K is equipped with the Cat Vision rear-view camera system and in-cab display. In addition, the Cat Detect object-detection system, which is available as an option, builds on the camera system with radars and in-cab software that provide notification to the operator when an object is detected within the radar coverage area.
