New Equipment, Training Program Showcased in Arizona Desert

Dec. 28, 2000
Among the wind swept hills south of Tucson, Ariz., Caterpillar introduced its latest in new construction equipment. The unveiling of two improved hydraulic excavators, and new M and R series track-type tractors took place at the company's Tinaja Hills training facility.

The 320B L and the 322B L hydraulic excavators are designed to replace the 320 and the 322. The new models retain the design concepts of those they replace; however, improvements were made in the areas of operator comfort, maintenance and serviceability, controllability, and productivity.

Among the wind swept hills south of Tucson, Ariz., Caterpillar introduced its latest in new construction equipment. The unveiling of two improved hydraulic excavators, and new M and R series track-type tractors took place at the company's Tinaja Hills training facility.

The 320B L and the 322B L hydraulic excavators are designed to replace the 320 and the 322. The new models retain the design concepts of those they replace; however, improvements were made in the areas of operator comfort, maintenance and serviceability, controllability, and productivity. The new designs also help the machines meet environmental requirements.

Operator comfort has been enhanced through a cab designed to lower sound levels, while providing 21% more visibility then previous models. Other cab features include automatic climate control, which enables a constant interior temperature setting; adjustable seat and consoles, which can be positioned together or independently of one another; and a joystick crank that allows the stick to be moved either up or down.

Maintenance was improved through improved filter locations and diagnostic capabilities to aid dealer service technicians in finding and correcting any problems.

The M series track-type tractors consist of two models, the D5M and the D6M, which replaces the D4H and the D5H. The R series models, D6R and D7R replace models D6H and D7H.

The M and R series were designed to meet or surpass worldwide emissions and sound regulations. This was accomplished by using engines with direct unit fuel injection systems. The M models use a six-cylinder, turbocharged Caterpillar 3116 diesel engine, with 110 hp at 2,100 rpm. The R series is powered by a Caterpillar 3306 diesel engine, which delivers 165 to 185 hp at 1,900 rpm on the D6R, and 230 to 240 hp at 2,100 rpm on the D7R.

Additional features of the M series include electronic power train control, optional electronic monitoring and display system to aid in maintenance and operation, larger fuel tank for longer hours of operation, and variable pitch power angle tilt blades to improve performance and increase versatility.

The R series features also include a new cooling system, and electronic power train and fingertip control, which allows simultaneous one-hand steering and transmission control.

Training programs

Besides the new equipment the company also discussed its training program for experienced operators. About one and a half years ago Caterpillar found there was a need to increase operator safety and training.

To solve this problem the company set up Caterpillar Equipment Training programs.

Bill Miller, training administrator, explains, "This intense, structured program was designed in conjunction with the University of Illinois and uses a combination of classroom and hands-on instruction. Student-to-faculty ratios are a maximum of 4 to 1. All instructors follow a consistent format which ensures the ability to certify the students. Each student must score 100% against program standards. A record of completion is kept on each participant and a registered belt buckle is awarded to each graduating operator."

The training schedule for this year will offer classes on track-type tractors, off-highway trucks and large wheel loaders. There will also be a second series on motor graders, hydraulic excavators and backhoe loaders.

Cat prefers a five-day training program in two complementary equipment families but two-and-a-half-day training programs in one equipment type also is available.

Because one of the goals of the program is to take an experienced operator to a higher skill level, only operators with five years of experience with their equipment type are accepted for training. Tune-up training that does not involve the pursuit of a certification also is available.

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