Equipment World Digital Magazine
Issue link: http://read.dmtmag.com/i/732903
EquipmentWorld.com | October 2016 59 Fine Grade Made Easy www.level-best.com • 800-342-0905 Automatic Laser-Guided Grade Box • Finish Grade for Concrete Placement • Crown Sports Fields • Grade Building Pads ON GRADE... AUTOMATICALLY! ATI_Equip0115_PG073.indd 1 9/18/15 10:10 AM Grader control technology C aterpillar recently launched four integrated technology systems for its M Series motor graders to help with the nuances needed during site preparation. Cat GRADE with Cross Slope is a 2D system that automatically adjusts the blade slope set by the operator to create a uniform eleva- tion change across the cutting edge. This helps cut down operator time and can potentially save fuel. The system is an optional, factory- integrated system with no need for a base station, design fi les or data radios. The system can be upgraded to AccuGrade when 3D control is needed. Stable Grade can analyze and reduce machine bounce by automatically decreasing engine speed at 15 percent intervals when bounce is detected. Engine rpm increases systematically to a pre-set level when the grader stabilizes. These settings can also be adjusted. Auto Articulation provides the operator the ability to auto- matically articulate when steering, a benefi t when working in tight spaces and around curves, obstacles and turnarounds. The system hardware is installed on all M Series and M Series 3 motor graders from the factory, along with a 500-hour software trial. Advanced Control Joysticks provide operators the ability to steer, shift, articulate, adjust the blade, use Cat GRADE with Cross Slope, operate a snow wing, and control auxiliary hydrau- lics without having to remove their hands from the joysticks. A Caterpillar M Series 3 motor grader