Better Roads Digital Magazine
Issue link: https://read.dmtmag.com/i/85919
Intermat visitors also received a sneak peek of Cat's 966K XE's powertrain sys- tem, which Cat says can deliver up to 25 percent fuel efficiency improvement. A hydraulic variator takes the place of the torque converter for reduced heat generation under severe rimpull load. When the machine is working under heavy loads, Cat says the continuously variable transmission consumes roughly half the energy compared to a conven- tional transmission. The mechanical path drives one element in the planetary transmission, while the hydraulic path drives another. The two together essentially provide the output of the planetary. Since the hydraulic can be variably controlled, the output is variably controlled. For a visual explanation, go to http:// xe.catallday.co.uk/#/transmission. In the iron Volvo is launching more than 60 new products this year, says Pat Olney, pres- ident and CEO. Intermat intros included the L45G and L50G wheel loaders. In addition, Olney said Volvo has been "quite satisfied" with the start of its skid steer supply agreement with JCB. "It's been even better than we expected," he said. JCB says 2012 will be the "biggest product launch in our history." To date, 33 new products have been intro- duced with another 33 scheduled for debut before year end. Show introduc- tions included the 427 and 437 wheel loaders and company's revamped JS line of excavators, including the JS115 to JS180 range of machines that will feature the JCB 444 Dieselmax for the first time. The company says the Volvo's L45G and L50G wheel loaders have a shorter frame, created by positioning the engine transversely, allowing extra movement in restricted areas. The machines feature infinitely variable hydrostatic transmissions, allowing maximum rimpull availability at all speeds. Shorts Scania and Doosan Infra- core have extended their current agreement, with Sca- nia providing an estimated 3,000 engines annually with one engine platform for all emissions levels. Scania cur- rently provides engines for Doosan's artics and wheel loaders. Sandvik announced it's bringing back the Ram- mer line of breakers, which will be handled, as before, by Allied Construction Products in North America. Better Roads June 2012 39d