Caterpillar has launched the 980L medium wheel loader – the latest machine to be rolled out as part of the L-Series – delivering a more powerful Cat ACERT engine and significant fuel savings.
The 980L uses a power-dense and fuel-efficient Cat C13 ACERT engine, which uses a combination of proven electronic, fuel-injection and air-systems to deliver a maximum gross power rating of 303 kW or 412hp – for an operating weight of around 30 tonnes.
The 980L’s updated ACERT engine delivers 5% more engine power compared to the 980H, and the whole machine is designed for maximum fuel efficiency – making it capable of consuming up to 25% less fuel consumption compared with its predecessor.
This is partly thanks to the Cat Advanced Productivity Electronically Controlled (APEC) control system, which maintains torque flow during range shifts for faster acceleration on ramps and smoother gear shifting in direct-drive mode, but also allows the ACERT engine to burn less fuel wen it is not needed.
Overall, the powertrain, hydraulic, cooling and electronic systems intelligently lower average working engine speeds and overall system heat loads resulting in improved performance and fuel efficiency.
According to Caterpillar, thanks to a rigorous design and machine validation process, the series delivers unmatched reliability, high uptime and durability, while heavy-duty driveline components — including the transmissions, axles and ACERT engines — reduce the risk of premature wear.
In addition, the Integrated Braking System (IBS) regulates downshifting in proportion to the required braking force, resulting in smoother downshifts and increased deceleration control.
The IBS prolongs service brake life, lengthens axle-oil change intervals, reduces axle-oil temperatures, and improves transmission-neutraliser performance – resulting in faster cycles.
The 980L also features axle modifications that reduce parasitic loads and enhance lubrication, and can optionally feature automatic traction control, which improves traction and reduces tyre wear.
The machine is also equipped with a quick coupler, so that buckets and other work tools, can be changed without leaving the cab – allowing the machine to quickly move from task to task.
