New Laser-Based AccuGrade System Matches Durable Grading Box with Integrated Control and Automatic Operation

Caterpillar has announced a new laser-based AccuGrade grading system for Cat C-Series Skid-Steer Loaders, Multi-Terrain Loaders and Compact Track Loaders.

Photo Credit: Caterpillar

The new system combines the capability of the Level Best Grading Box with the C-Series loader's integral electro/hydraulic controls to create an automated grading system capable of extreme accuracy. The new system establishes flat or single-slope grades to within ± 0.25 inch (± 6.5 mm) without grade stakes or the expense of grade checkers and stake-setting surveyors. Machines grade more area per hour and are more fuel-efficient in the process.

The new AccuGrade system works with the loader's auxiliary-hydraulic system and integral controls to automatically adjust the elevation of the grading-box blade, eliminating undercuts and overfills (no reworks) and assuring that expensive base materials are spread to exact specifications (no penalties or wasted material). Plus, fewer people on site results in greater safety.

Photo Credit: Caterpillar

The Advanced Machine Information and Control System (AMICS) provides an in-cab display showing the blade's position relative to finished grade. A trigger switch on the implement joystick allows the operator to choose manual or automatic operation of the grading box, and with the system in its automatic mode, the operator need only steer the machine and control its speed to achieve precise grades. Support wheels ahead of the responsive, well-designed grading box blade extend the loader's wheel base for smooth cuts.

Source: Caterpillar

JCB 8065 Sets The New Benchmark In Six-Ton Excavator Performance

The JCB homepage features details on the new 8065 RTS (reduced tail swing) Excavator replaces the 8060 and is described as JCB’s most productive six-ton machine ever.

Photo Credit: JCB

Powering the 8065 is a new 54.3hp, Tier III Isuzu Turbo engine. This engine, along with a near five-inch reduction of the machine’s tail swing, makes the 8065 even more productive when operating in confined spaces.

The new excavator also features a heavy-duty dipper to give improved bucket and dipper breakout forces. Its maximum dig depth of 14’3” and dump height of 14’0” constitute a class-leading digging range. The improved bucket breakouts increase the 8065’s productivity, and ultimately, the customer’s return on investment. The single-piece wraparound dipper design reduces the need for weld points, increasing durability, and the easily accessible dig-end hoses are routed through the kingpost, protecting it from damage.

The 8065 also features a new counterweight design that has further reduced the tail swing to seven inches.

Source: JCB

John Deere's New Frontier SB2176 Snow Blower Packs Power and Ease with Loader-Mount Design

John Deere's Frontier Products has introduced an easier, more powerful way to quickly move snow: the hydraulically driven and loader-mounted SB2176 Snow Blower for all John Deere 400 Series Loaders.

Photo Credit: John Deere

Designed to save time and energy, the SB2176's quick-attach feature allows operators to mount the blower without removing the loader. The blower is driven by an independent, hydraulic three-point hydraulic power pack that attaches to the rear of the tractor. Self-contained and driven by the tractor's rear PTO, it is also Category 1- and iMatch-compatible.

"The SB2176 increases tractor versatility and ease of use, both of which are necessities for operators with a long list of duties, such as those at schools or municipalities," said Tom Elliott, division sales & marketing manager for Frontier. "But clearing snow will become every operator's favorite task with the help of the hydraulic controls and the ability to drive the blower facing forward. The ability to quickly disconnect the snow blower and begin using the loader again means more versatility."

Source: John Deere

907H Rounds Out Strong Caterpillar Compact Wheel Loader Lineup

Caterpillar has announced the new Cat 907H, the latest addition to the Cat Compact Wheel Loader range, which fits between the popular 906H and 908H models.

Photo Credit: Caterpillar

The new 70-net horsepower (52-kW) model features a skid steer loader style coupler, auxiliary hydraulic system, Cat C3.4 diesel engine, two-speed hydrostatic drive, standard differential locks in both axles, parallel-lift Z-bar loader linkage and high-visibility operator's station. Optional features—including high-flow hydraulics, ride control and speeder transmission—further enhance the 907H's performance and versatility in a diversity of landscaping, industrial and general-construction applications.

The hydraulically actuated skid-steer-loader-type coupler, which the 907H shares with the 906H and 908H, allows use of many of the hydro-mechanical work tools that customers presently own for Cat Skid Steer, Multi-Terrain and Compact Track Loaders. This capability expands the 907H's versatility and allows the machine to be easily integrated into existing small-equipment fleets.

Source: Caterpillar

The New Case 650L Crawler Dozer

Photo Credit: Case Construction Equipment

Case Construction Equipment today has announced the addition of the 650L to its crawler dozer line. The new Case 650L crawler dozer delivers more performance, a lower overall operating height and weight, and superior maintenance features that boost productivity. The machine is ideal for residential job sites and confined commercial work areas.

The 650L retains the superior features of the Case crawler dozer line, such as hydrostatic drive, a comfortable operator compartment, two undercarriage options and superior maintainability.

The 650L delivers 74 net horsepower (55 kW) through a Tier 3-certified, four-cylinder, 4.5-liter turbocharged Case Family IV engine with electronic fuel injection for maximum fuel efficiency and easier starts in cold weather. A high-pressure common-rail injection system delivers excellent combustion. A charge air cooler reduces emissions and provides a cleaner and more efficient fuel burn.

The lower operating height allows the 650L to work around low overhangs, while its lighter weight is ideal for work in soft soil conditions. The shorter track means easier turning, making the machine extremely maneuverable on the job site. The compact size also makes the crawler dozer easy to transport from job to job.

Source: Case Construction Equipment

Hay Bales Communicate Data Through New Holland CropID Technology

New Holland Agriculture recently launched CropID, an individual bale identification system for large square balers.

Photo Credit: New Holland

According to New Holland, using Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) technology, the CropIDTM system gathers detailed information about each separate bale and stores it in a microchip that attaches to the twine. This innovation enables commercial growers to uniquely tag and sort bales based on a wide range of criteria, so that shipments or storage can be arranged according to the hay types that best meet the clients' needs.

Identifying quality, moisture content, or other characteristics of specific bales is now a simple process, allowing growers to easily decide which bales are the best match for specific customers, or need to be set aside for further curing.

Photo Credit: New Holland

"The wealth of data provided by the CropIDTM system offers a vast array of benefits that have a great value to both the farmer selling the bale and the customer purchasing it," said Michael Cornman, New Holland Dairy & Livestock Marketing Segment Leader. "The system provides accurate documentation of bales for resale, the exact weight of bales for loading and shipping purposes, the ability to monitor and manage inventory via computer, and it provides customized records for customers."

Source: New Holland

John Deere Launches New D-Series Skid Steers and CTLs With Customer-Inspired Features

Photo Credit: John Deere

The introduction of John Deere's new D-Series skid steer loaders and compact track loaders (CTLs) is the culmination of years of careful research and a partnership with skid steer owners and operators from around the world – all to ensure D-Series operators have the comfort, features and performance needed to do their best work.

Photo Credit: John Deere

"We've listened to what customers told us they wanted in skid steer and compact track loaders, and we've responded with nine new models that incorporate their suggestions," said Gregg Zupancic, Deere's product marketing manager for skid steers and compact track loaders.

One of the most dramatic differences in the D-Series is the cab. "Customers have been asking us for more comfortable cabs similar to those found on larger pieces of Deere equipment, so we've introduced an all-new operating environment," Zupancic said.

Photo Credit: John Deere

As a result of further customer suggestions, Deere's D-Series contains several industry firsts. "Operators asked us why they can't get more 'big machine' features in skid steers and CTLs, in addition to the bigger, more comfortable cab," Zupancic explained. "We think they're right and that's why we've responded with items like the auto idle, an optional reversing hydraulic fan, and an innovative V-Plenum cooling system that provides significantly more cooling capacity and performance."

Source: John Deere