SPECIALISED FOREST MACHINES INNOVATION
ultimate machine efficiency coupled with enhanced performance . Cat components , purpose-built upper and lower frames , and application specific linkage configurations increase machine up time and reduce machine operating costs .
Enhanced hydraulics aid fuel economy , deliver more power An enhanced hydraulic system delivers a higher level of efficiency and power . Upsized pumps , the layout of components , and back-toback main control valve all optimize hydraulic oil flow . The result is powerful , multi-functioning hydraulics for strong machine performance , ensuring that work tools function quickly and smoothly to complete work faster with greater fuel economy .
The hydraulic updates enable the 548 and 548 LL engine to run at a lower steady state rpm while maximizing power . Operating at a lower rpm provides significant fuel savings and lowers operating costs .
At the same time , Tier 4 Final technology and features like a variable pitch fan , variable power modes , automatic engine speed control , one-touch idle , and boom and stick regeneration valves provide excellent fuel economy . With automatic engine speed control , the machines will revert automatically to a lower idle speed when there is a lull in operation . Regeneration valves minimize oil required from the pump , which maximizes efficiency .
Swing torque increases almost 20 % The 548 and 548 LL are built to perform , powered by a Cat 152 kW ( 204 hp ) C7.1 ACERT engine with increased horsepower that maintains maximum performance under load . Strong hydraulic horsepower allows the 548 and 548 LL to handle a variety of work tools .
An almost 20 % boost in swing torque , depending on the model , provides more power to move trees , increasing production and efficiency . Heavy lift mode and other updates enable greater lift capacity to handle larger payloads with improved control , and tractive effort has improved by as much as 13 % to allow efficient manoeuvring when working away from the road .
Boom , hydraulic configurations for specific applications With boom arrangements and hydraulic systems for specific applications , the 548 and 548 LL are more optimized and effective at road building , loading , processing , shovelling , or millyard unloading and stacking .
New track options meet shovel logging and low ground pressure application requirements , and ground saw hydraulics are available for log loader applications . In addition to the standard cab , a purpose-built processor cab option is available for both machine models , and two premium rear entry cab choices are available for the 548 LL .
Cab keeps operator working comfortably , productively The Forest Machine cabs have features and technology to reduce fatigue and keep operators working comfortably and productively all day . An air ride seat , which is fully adjustable , includes heating and cooling capability , and a bi-level air conditioner , heater , and defroster keep the cab at a comfortable temperature in any weather .
Other features include a satellite radio , 12-volt power supply socket for charging , a larger monitor , and LED lights . Standard tool control software enables quick , efficient selection and swapping of tools .
New rear entry cab options provide convenient access on a fully lit platform through the use of a key fob . For these rear entry
The 548 LL shows off its ability in logging applications
cabs , a new cab forward riser and optimized window design improve visibility for shovel logging and other applications , while an innovative cab lock down system increases machine uptime by increasing cab tilt efficiency and minimizing transport time .
Easy to access , easy to maintain The Cat 548 and 548 LL are designed for serviceability . A one-piece engine hood design with two opening angles allows easy access to engine and cooling compartments . The side-by-side engine and hydraulic coolers are convenient for cleaning due to a cooler that hinges out of the way , and fewer cooling fins per inch improves debris flow-through and reduces clogging .
Plentiful storage space at ground level allows ready access to tools , equipment , and supplies that operators use daily .
Purpose-built durability and reliability Like other Cat machines , the 548 and 548 LL are designed and built for reliable , durable performance in the severest of forestry applications . Cooling capability is increased 12 % for trouble-free operation , and the variable pitch , reversing cooling fan maintains optimum fluid temperature . Validated , proven excavator
technologies ensure overall machine reliability .
The purpose-built upper frame , high-wide carbody , robust linkage configurations , and heavy-duty enclosures feature thick doubler plates , extra gussets , and other weldments and reinforcements . Upsized 216 mm ( 8.5 inch ) pitch ( 336 HEX ) grease-lubricated tracks provide excellent life in forestry applications .
Caterpillar worldwide support Cat Product Link allows for remote location of a machine and tracking of fuel consumption and other indicators .
Caterpillar customers are supported by the industry ’ s largest network of dealers who will keep them and their machines running with parts availability , field services , state-of-the art diagnostic programs , remote monitoring , and more .
International Forest Industries | APRIL / MAY 2018 71