Caterpillar Inc. jumped ahead of the rest with a pre-ConExpo-Con/Agg 2005 press event held at its Tinaja Hills, Ariz., facility on Friday, March 11. The company unveiled several of its new products for 2005, including the AP-1055D asphalt paver and the PM-200 and PM-201 cold planers.
The AP-1055D replaces the 1055B, which according to Cat is the largest selling asphalt paver in North America. The new machine offers a hefty 224-hp engine to support generator sets needed for its electric-heated screed and lighting for nighttime work. The standard paving width on the AP-1055D is 10 ft and the hopper capacity is 13.2 tons. Dual operator stations are now standard.
The PM-200 and PM-201 cold planers are the result of the strong partnership between Cat and Italian manufacturer Bitelli. The PM-200 has a 575-hp engine and offers a rotor width of 79 ft and a rotor depth of 12.5 in. The PM-201 replaces the PM-565B. Ideal for highway work, the pavement-chewing machine has a 650-hp engine and offers a rotor width of 83 in. and a rotor depth of 12 in. Both models offer a load sensing propel system.
Throughout the event, Caterpillar stressed its commitment to offering total customer solutions. "Caterpillar people accept the problem," said Group President G.L. Shaheen. "Once you own the problem you naturally want to solve it. By the end of this decade, I think you'll be amazed at what Cat does with its equipment."
Two such high-tech problem solvers now offered by the Peoria, Ill.-based manufacturer are AccuGrade GPS and Product Link. AccuGrade, an option on all new Cat dozers, is a laser-guided system which essentially does all the grunt work during roadbed preparation.
Product Link allows the contractor to monitor the vital signs of equipment while it is being used on the jobsite.
