Posted inMachinery

Skid-steer loaders with ROC of 630–690kg and compact track loaders with ROC of 900kg will see increasing demand in the UAE, according to Al-Bahar

Cat skid-steer loaders and compact wheel loaders are built to operate under harsh conditions such as high temperature, dust, and humidity

by Staff Writer
Skid-steer loaders with ROC of 630–690kg and compact track loaders with ROC of 900kg will see increasing demand in the UAE, according to Al-Bahar
Skid-steer loaders with ROC of 630–690kg and compact track loaders with ROC of 900kg will see increasing demand in the UAE, according to Al-Bahar

According to Al-Bahar’s projections, skid-steer loaders with rated operating capacity (ROC) of 630–690kg, such as the Cat 216 and 226 models, and compact track loaders with ROC of 900kg and above, such as the Cat 239D model will see increasing demand in the UAE market in the next few years.

In addition to the versatility of these machines, Cat skid-steer loaders and compact wheel loaders are built to operate under harsh conditions such as high temperature, dust, and humidity.

Mamoun Mutair, product manager, building construction and paving, Al-Bahar, points out the main features that make Cat machines suited to Middle East operating conditions.

“The special design of the cooling system as well the air intake systems make these machines ready to work under these conditions. Fresh air enters through cavities behind the loader arms, travels through the engine bay, and is then blown evenly through both the engine coolant and hydraulic oil radiators. The fan is hydraulic, and therefore, its speed is independent of the engine RPM and will not slow when the engine lugs down, maintaining cooling performance in tough conditions. The optional demand fan uses temperature sensors to monitor the machine cooling requirements and modulates the fan speed to provide cooling only as needed, which improves fuel efficiency.

Mutair elaborates on how Caterpillar improves the maneuverability, operator comfort, visibility, fuel consumption, and total cost of ownership of its skid-steer and compact track loaders.

“The pilot control joystick operation makes both the machines very easy to control and manoeuvre, in addition to offering comfortable seating and spacious cabins with optional air conditioning. Both hand and foot throttle are provided as standard features. The minimum engine speed (RPM) needed for the job may be set via the hand throttle with extra power available via the automotive style foot throttle when required. The anti-stall system allows operation at lower RPM to reduce noise as well as fuel consumption and engine wear. Minimal space intrusion in foot-well from throttle provides maximum operator comfort. Furthermore, excellent visibility is provided to the cutting edge and bucket corners and hydraulic lines are out of view and do not restrict vision. With regard to safety, the retractable seat belt automatically adjusts to fit operators of all sizes and conveniently retracts when not in use,” he explains.

Mutair provides advice on what buyers should consider before investing in skid-steer and compact track loaders. “It depends on the working condition and the job requirements. For high mobility and solid underfoot conditions, we recommend the skid steer but if the job requires low ground pressure and soft under foot condition then the compact track loader is the right machine,” he says.

To boost sales of skid-steer and compact track loaders, Al-Bahar offers value-added services and monthly offers. Currently, Al-Bahar is running an exclusive offer on the 216 skid-steer loader. Valid until 30 November 2018, the offer includes extended warranty for two years and more, attractive finance programs for two years and enhanced customer service agreements.