New construction vehicle saves bucketloads of energy
A Caterpillar loader.Image: Shutterstock
Caterpillar’s new electric loader vehicle offers 25% greater efficiency than previous models.
The manufacturer claims the Cat 988K XE’s new design increases engine life by up to 3,500 hours, extending the time between lengthy and costly powertrain rebuilds.
It uses a diesel engine to provide power to an electric generator, which in turn provides power to the electric motor to drive the machine forward and in reverse.
The shovel mechanisms remain hydraulic.
Caterpillar claims its efficiency improvements can rise to as much as 49% in certain applications, reducing fuel consumption and helping cut greenhouse gas emissions.
This also lowers maintenance costs – 40% less powertrain oil needs to be used and the intervals between it being changed are extended by 2,000 hours.
Article source: http://www.energylivenews.com/2017/08/30/new-construction-vehicle-saves-bucketloads-of-energy/
