VIDEO: New 41 tonne 826K Landfill Compactor from Caterpillar

Caterpillar has launched its latest generation of Cat® 826 Landfill Compactor, the K Series, featuring two ACERT™ engine options, meeting U.S. EPA Tier 4 Final/EU Stage IV emission standards or U.S. EPA Tier 3/EU Stage IIIA equivalent emission standards. According to the company, the introduction of the K Series model sees improved operator comfort and safety, ease of operation, durability, reliability, low-cost operation, and productivity. Weighing in a around 41 tonnes, the 826K has 405 net horsepower (302 kW) available for its drive train, which uses a 2F/2R planetary power-shift transmission, lock-up torque converter, and heavy-duty planetary axles that can accommodate three new wheel-and- tip configurations. To cut fuel consumption, Cat said that the the 826K features an Eco Mode, which, when selected by the operator, limits engine speed and allows the machine to function in an auto-shift mode when maximum torque is not required. For operator convenience, the left pedal serves as a brake, transmission neutraliser, and engine decelerator, which the manufacturer said allows the operator can to temporarily override the engine speed set with the throttle lock for safely manoeuvring around obstacles. The company added that the 826K's STIC™ system allows single-lever steering and transmission control for optimum responsiveness. The 826K is also said to be easier for the operator to get in and out of, with lit shallow-angle stairways and a STIC armrest that folds away. Cat added that its Comfort Series air-suspension seat features extra thick cushions and moves the attached electro-hydraulic STIC-control pod and implement-control pod when adjusted. The cab is also isolation-mounted to the frame and pressurised with filtered, temperature maintained air. The control panel uses large, back-lit switches with LED indicators, and a two-position rocker switch controls the parking brake. Drive train and guards According to Cat, the 826K delivers consistent, smooth shifting via integrated electronic controls that use the Caterpillar Single Clutch Speed Shifting system. The metallurgy and heat-treating incorporated into the transmission's gearing are said to ensure consistent performance and long-term durability. The lock-up torque converter used in the 826K is also claimed to be more efficient in the transmission of power, offer lower system heat, increased travel speed, and improve fuel efficiency. Because landfill compactors operate in harsh environments, Caterpillar said that it has designed the machine with purpose-built structures that deliver long-term durability. For example, the full-box-section rear frame resists twisting forces and shock, the steering-cylinder mounts are designed to effectively dissipate steering loads into the frame, and the axle mounts are heavy-duty components that contribute to the overall structural integrity of the machine. The manufacturer also noted that specialised guarding protects the 826K's systems and components from job-site hazards, such as debris build-up, chemicals, and wire and plastics that might wrap around wheel assemblies. Hydraulically actuated engine and power-train guards are said to shield components and resist debris build up; front-frame guards further prevent trash build-up in the frames and add protection for hydraulic lines; axle-wrapping and seal guards reduce the prospect of material binding around the axles; a fine-mesh air-inlet screen prevents material from entering the engine compartment; an under-hood ventilation system resists waste intrusion and cools components; and striker bars and cleaner fingers help keep the wheels clean for optimum compaction effort. Wheels and tips The 826K is available with three new wheel-and-tip configurations, which Cat said improve machine performance and meet individual landfill applications. The company explained that the Paddle Tip configuration is designed for greater traction with less weight, providing high performance coupled with reduced fuel burn. The Plus Tip is a conventional design that increases side-slope stability, and the Combination Tip provides a practical compromise of important elements - performance, fuel economy, and side-slope stability. Serviceability/Technology To promote the safety of personnel servicing the 826, Cat said that routine maintenance points are grouped and accessible from ground level or from non-skid walkways with hand rails. Swing-out doors on both sides of the engine compartment provide easy access to daily service checks, and ecology drains simplify service and help prevent spills. A swing-out stairway facilitates access to the engine. In addition, swing-out coolers for fuel and hydraulic fluid are said to simplify cleaning, and a ground-level power service centre has an electrical-disconnect, emergency-engine-shutdown, and stairway-light switches. To further complement serviceability, Cat said that its Vital Information System (VIMS™ 3G), integrated into the 826's design, keeps operators informed about machine operating conditions via an easy-to-view graphic display that features touch-screen interface. To expand machine-monitoring capability, the manufacturer said that its Cat Product Link™ system provides event and diagnostic codes, as well as data such as operating hours, fuel level, and idle time. This information is transmitted to a secure web-based application, VisionLink®, which provides tools for conveying information to machine owners and dealers, including working time versus idle time and mapping functions. Machine Specifications Engine Cat C15 ACERT Net power 405 hp (302 kW) Operating weight, max. 90,207 lb. (40 917 kg) Hydraulic flow, max. 30.9 gpm (117 L/min.) Main relief pressure 3,495 psi (24 100 kPa) Fuel capacity 206.6 gal. (782 L) Operator sound level, std. 73 dB(A) Operator sound level, supp. 72 dB(A) A video highlighting the new features of the 826K can be viewed below. [youtube:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vr2xllGkpdg| Read More New 56 Tonne 836K Landfill Compactor from Caterpillar Caterpillar has launched its 56 tonne 836K landfill compactor, the latest update to the 20 year old 836 series of landfill operators compactors. Electric Cat Arrives on UK Landfill Veolia Environmental Services has taken delivery of the first Cat D7E electric powered tracked dozer to arrive in the UK at its Rainham. Slovakia's Electric Avenue Last year, WMW’s plant, collection and transport correspondent, Malcolm Bates, was the first journalist to report on the diesel electric drive transmission developed by Caterpillar Corporation for the D7E. So naturally, when he got a chance to operate one on a landfill site in Slovakia recently, he grabbed it. Changing perceptions: The role of the Landfill Compactor Malcolm Bates reports from the Ammassuo landfill site at Espoo in Finland, where investment in the future has taken landfill technology, including a Cat 836H landfill compactor, to the next level. The end result is an example to us all. But the experience gained in Finland now also forms the basis of a consultancy service to help establish turnkey operations in less developed markets.]