Caterpillar releases its new Cat® 834K wheel dozer

Rated at 496 net horsepower (370 kW), the Cat C18 engine used in the 834K is available in three configurations to tailor the machine for any region of the world: Tier 4 Final (Stage IV) using a diesel particulate filter and a selective catalytic reduction system to

Cat 834K Wheel Dozer Cleans Off Coal Seam

control emissions; Tier 3 equivalent without after-treatment; and Tier 2 equivalent without after-treatment.

The C18 uses the field proven Cat mechanically actuated, electronic unit-injection system for precise control of fuel delivery, yielding optimum performance and economy in all operating situations. Fuel-saving enhancements for the 834K include engine-idle-shutdown and engine-idle kick-down systems, and the delayed-engine-shutdown system protects the engine from hot shut-downs. An on-demand, hydraulically driven cooling fan reduces horsepower draw for increased efficiency.

The Cat 4F/3R planetary power-shift transmission used in the 834K features a new Advanced Productivity Electronic Control Shifting system, which is designed to provide greater machine momentum through shift points, enhancing performance and saving fuel. Forced-flow oil lubricates and cools the transmission high-torque clutches to ensure long component life.

For increased productivity and precise control, the impeller clutch torque converter (ICTC) allows the operator to adjust rimpull from 100 to 25 percent in order to match hydraulic effort and rimpull to the operating situation. The ICTC system reduces tire wear and permits full-throttle shifts for greater productivity.

The 834K axles feature shaft-mounted, oil-cooled, multiple-disc brakes. The braking system can be equipped with auxiliary oil coolers for added protection. To reduce brake loads, an available automatic retarding system maintains a set downhill speed, minimizing brake use.

New operator station

The 834K features a completely redesigned operator station, with automatic temperature control, new touch-screen display with soft keypad, electro/hydraulic parking brake, and the Cat Comfort III seat with air-ride suspension and integral controls—including the Steering Transmission Integrated Control (STIC) that allows convenient joystick steering. Interior sound levels also are significantly reduced to a quiet 71 dB(A).

The 843K also is equipped with the Cat next-generation Vital Information Management System (VIMS™ 3G), which features a large touch-screen interface and easy-to-use navigation to keep operators informed of machine operating parameters. The system, with data-logging capability, features an Ethernet connection module and an integrated Cat Product Link telematics system, which transmits data to a secure web-based application (VisionLink™) for use by equipment managers.

Structural strength

Reflecting the solid design of its predecessors, the new 834K retains its massive full-box-section rear frame that resists torsional shock and twisting forces. Heavy-duty steering cylinder mounts are designed to transfer and effectively dissipate steering loads into the frame. Blade- mounting push beams have a “through-width” design, versus simply being attached to the sides of the frame, a design that dissipates the stress of blade corner-loading into a larger area of the frame.

New for the 834K is a redesigned rear-axle trunnion, now wider and bolted directly to the frame rails, eliminating the previously used intermediate casting and allowing loads to be more effectively dispersed. In addition, the lower articulation point (lower hitch) has been strengthened with an increase in front frame plate thickness and a significant increase in pin diameter in conjunction with a larger bearing.

Safety and serviceability

A major design focus of the 834K is operator safety, and to that end, the new model features a standard rearview camera, repositioned access ladders, full-perimeter railings and convenient ground-level panel that houses a stairway light switch, engine-shut-down switch and lockouts for the starter and transmission. Available for the 834K is the Cat Detect system, which supplements the rearview camera with radar sensors on the rear of the machine to provide both audible and visual indicators of objects in its working space.

Routine service points are accessible from ground level or from large, skid-resistant platforms. Swing-out doors on both sides of the engine give ready access to daily maintenance items, and ecology fluid drains facilitate service and protect the environment. For added convenience, the Electronic Technician diagnostic port and the VIMS service port are conveniently located in the cab.