Cat increases efficiency in new 657 wheel tractor scraper for low-cost earthmoving
Improved electronics and operator comfort with lower fuel consumption also help in raising productivity
Caterpillar’s new 657 Wheel Tractor-Scraper (WTS) delivers low-cost earthmoving with faster cycle times and a 7% increase in fuel efficiency.
The machinery giant said in a statement that the new model moves more material per unit of fuel burned, with improved onboard payload estimating accuracy helping optimise productivity. The largest open bowl scraper in the Caterpillar line, with a rated load of 46.4t, it now has a more spacious cab to boost operator comfort and efficiency in high volume earthmoving, highway construction and mining applications.
John Gerhold, wheel tractor-scraper application specialist for Caterpillar, said: “This new 657 is the next generation of ultra-class material moving systems. It delivers improved productivity, safety and technology, which our customers can use to strengthen their business today — and it is equipped to grow with them to meet tomorrow’s requirements.”
The 657 features on-the-go weighing through Payload Estimator, allowing the new WTS to achieve 95% load accuracy, so operators more easily reach target load goals. Ground Speed Control lowers fuel consumption by allowing the operator to set the desired top speed, allowing the machine to find the gear that works best for the engine and transmission.
The two-engine design includes the Cat C18 powering the tractor and Cat C15 in the scraper. Its Advanced Productivity Electronic Control System (APECS) allows the machine to better utilise engine power and torque, resulting in more material moved throughout the shift. The transmission features Electronic Clutch Pressure Control, which improves shift quality and fuel efficiency. New hydraulic disc brakes improve braking performance and reduce maintenance.
The 657 WTS also has a 21% larger cab interior than the preceding model, the 657G, improving operator comfort and providing excellent visibility to the bail, cutting edge and bowl of the new 657. The air suspension comfort seat adjusts and rotates 30-degrees to reduce fatigue, while the new Advance Ride Management adjusts damping to match ground conditions, resulting in a smoother ride for the operator. Automatic HVAC temperature controls come standard for increased operator comfort. The new power access ladder enhances operator safety when entering and exiting the cab.
The 657 includes a new hydraulic on-demand fan that increases engine fuel efficiency. The machine also has draft-arm overflow guards, which prevent material accumulation between the draft arms and bowl sides. Ground-level access for fuel fill and all daily maintenance points increases service efficiency and safety to increase machine uptime.
Integrated Payload Estimator and Cat Product Link technologies provide real-time payload, machine location, fuel usage and idle time information as well as diagnostic fault codes—all to significantly increase fleet management efficiency. A collective view of critical machine operating data is accessed via VisionLink from anywhere there is an internet connection. My.cat.com links managers directly to their VisionLink account and offers access to maintenance schedules, parts and service records, and warranty information.
