The Caterpillar 770 and 772 off-highway trucks have been launched for construction, quarry and mining applications in the 36.3-tonne and 45.4-tonne payload classes, respectively.
The 45.4-tonne model is a completely new size class for Cat trucks. Both machines incorporate new features to lower cost- per-tonne, including a new engine and radiator, enhanced transmission and brakes, and a new cab and operator station. The new trucks also offer well-designed access for operators and service personnel. A new information system, Cat Messenger, aids both maintenance technicians and operators.
The introduction of the two models enables Cat to discontinue the 769, which has served contractors and quarry operators since 1962. And the 771, introduced as a quarry truck in 1992, has also been discontinued.
The company now offers dual slope and flat floor body systems with three different steel liner packages and two rubber liner packages on the 770 and 772. Five different body liner systems for the 770 and 772 enable a customer to configure a truck for the specific application to achieve optimum productivity and durability.
The new trucks use the industry-exclusive Caterpillar 10/10/20 payload policy, which means that no more than 10% of loads may exceed 10% of the target payload and no loads may exceed 20%. By following this policy, operators reduce cost per tonne, move more material, reduce spillage and haul road maintenance, and increase machine life.
They also use the same all-new centre-mounted cab. It provides additional room, walk-in comfort, smoother ride and superior visibility: the new operator station is 8% larger with 52% more glass than in Cat’s D-series off-highway trucks.
A new ergonomic design and layout of controls promotes operator efficiency and reduces operator fatigue. The seat is now in the centre of the cab for easier ingress and egress.
The Cat Comfort Seat delivers comfort, support and durability. The new heating, ventilation and air conditioning system produces greater airflow and even temperature throughout the cab. An optional camera system provides a view to the rear of the truck through a 177.8mm LCD colour monitor in the cab.
Valuable machine information is available to the operator or technician through Cat Messenger, which provides real-time and stored machine performance and diagnostic data through an LCD display in the cab. A new modular radiator design provides 3.5 times more fin spacing, making it easier to clean and service.