|
contents | technologies | |||||||||
| New features for Cat 836H Landfill Compactor  One design aspect the Cat 836 Landfill Compactor has been unchanged since its introduction in 1993: it has remained a purpose-built machine that reliably and economically delivers high-density compaction at high production rates in a most-severe application—the sanitary landfill. The 836's basic design, however, has been continually refined, including a recent design update that makes this already-strong performer even more productive, easier to operate, and easier to service. A new Auto-Idle Kickdown (AIK) system boosts fuel economy by automatically reducing engine speed when the 836H has not actively operated for a set time interval. The interval can be adjusted (from five to 60 seconds) through the Cat Electronic Technician, and the operator can enable or disable the system via a switch in the cab. Complementing the AIK feature is a new Idle Shutdown system, which automatically stops the engine after it has idled in a safe state for an extended time. The safe-idle interval is adjustable (between three and 60 minutes), and the system visually and audibly alerts the operator before engine shutdown, allowing time for manual override. Blade performance is enhanced for the 836H by a regeneration ("regen") valve that assures positive hydraulic flow to the blade lift cylinder. This closed-loop hydraulic circuit reduces the potential for drawing a void on the head side of the lift cylinder as the blade lowers, thus keeping positive down-force on the blade and preventing it from being forced up by debris. Overall, the new system improves blade response and controllability. Laminated glass (two panes of glass with a small air gap between) now is used for the side-back and rear windows—in addition to the three front windows. Laminated glass reduces cab- interior sound levels by dampening vibration in the glass caused by external noise sources, such as the engine and hydraulic system. Interior sound levels for the 836H are reduced by a significant 1 dB(A), to 76 dB(A). Also in the cab, a newly designed implement-pod (joystick console) is now on the same plane as the seat armrest, providing a more ergonomic design than the previous angled console. Switches for various machine functions are now conveniently positioned on the joystick console or on the joystick itself, instead of on a separate panel to the right of the joystick. Since the new implement-pod design is the same as that for Cat Medium Wheel Loaders, we are utilizing a proven system, commonality for parts stocking and operator training is made easier through standardization. Rounding out new operator-environment features for the 836H are an optional heated seat for added comfort in cold weather and new radio options that allow wireless connectivity via Bluetooth technology and MP3 connection via a USB port. For added safety, hinged mirrors allow unhindered access to the windshield for cleaning. The design of the new belly guard for the 836H is significantly refined, including wear plates made from more abrasion-resistant material, structural changes that provide a four-fold increase for withstanding impact forces and labyrinth joints that reduce debris entry. The new guard incorporates a smooth profile that eliminates catch points which can cause wear and access issues to the belly guard. Other structural enahancements include protected internal hinges, relocated mounting bolts (now protected from abrasion) and a design that better protects the center axle housing, rear trunnions and hitch. The belly guard now can be serviced by one technician (not two) and has improved access minimizing service cost and downtime. Complementing the new belly-guard design is a 2-inch (51-mm) increase in the diameter of the 836H's wheels, resulting in a 1-inch (25-mm) gain in ground clearance, to 25 inches (635 mm). Greater ground clearance reduces the resistance and abrasion caused by debris sliding against the belly guard which provides a system approach for more productivity and greater traction and wear life on the Cat Stepped Tips. The swing-out stair assembly has been improved for the 836H with a two-piece, fully enclosed hinge that uses an internal nylon plate that maintains hinge alignment. The new hinge assembly resists debris packing and promotes easy, reliable access. A new power-train filter contains the element in a vertically mounted canister that threads into a top-mounted header. The technician need only use a strap wrench to loosen and remove the canister to change the element, minimizing oil spills. The previous design required removing six bolts from the bottom of the canister and removing the element from below. write your comments about the article :: © 2010 Construction News :: home page |