Advances in compact compaction and compact loading machines coming to market

Key developments are being seen in the markets for compact compaction and loading machines - Mike Woof writes

Various new utility machines are now coming to market aimed at the rental segment, with advances in small compaction and loading tools proving particularly popular. These will benefit from the latest low emission engines while delivering increased power and performance, as well as being easier and more comfortable to use.

6791 Ammann is notable in having a number of small compaction units now available and its APH 6530 ACEecon is a fully hydraulic vibratory plate featuring a simple and robust display system. This indicates compaction progress and the maximum compaction level achievable with the machine, allowing the operator to prevent over-compaction and unnecessary passes.

Power comes from a 7125 Hatz Diesel 1D81 engine and the APH 6530 vibratory plate has an operating weight of 530kg, and a working width of up to 85cm. Its maximum surface compaction is up to 1630m²/hour. Other features include an electric starter and a triple-shaft exciter and orbitrol steering. The firm’s Rammax 1575 CI trench roller is powered by a Yanmar diesel that is quiet and has low fuel consumption and exhaust emissions. The design of the articulated joint allows the machine to adapt to the conditions and is said to deliver efficient compaction results in applications including backfilling for bridges and other structures, trench filling, embankment and landfill construction, and base construction for roads.

The maintenance-free articulated joint on the Rammax 1575 CI is said to ensure that all four drums remain in contact with the ground. In conjunction with the low centre of gravity, this also increases stability. Proven infrared technology is said to ensure a high degree of safety. Solar cells integrated in the remote control ensure the model is always ready for operation.

Also aimed at the rental market for compaction units is the 161 Atlas Copco LP6500 duplex roller. This is said to offer high operator comfort. The LP6500’s hydraulic transmission eliminates the need for chains or gears, allowing a design with smooth sides, high kerb clearance and no overhang. This means that the LP6500 can work close to obstacles or edges. The LP6500 is also equipped with a controlled cooling fan to help reduce the risk of unplanned stops. With its 6.8kW engine, the LP6500’s power and speed ensures high compaction efficiency and reduces the time required to perform each task.

Achieving high compaction efficiency on granular soil layers, such as sand and gravel, when compacting silt the compaction effect depends largely on water content and the LP6500 is most effective on thin layers. The LP6500 is well suited for smaller jobs in areas such as pavement construction or repair, narrow roads, playgrounds or parking lots.

In the skid steer and compact loader market, novel developments are also in hand and 1130 Bobcat’s 500 frame skid-steer and compact track loaders are said to provide operators with extensive feature upgrades, including increased visibility, a more comfortable cab and easier serviceability to maximise jobsite efficiency.

The machines’ range includes the S510, S530, S550, S570 and S590 skid-steer loaders, and the T550 and T590 compact track loaders. The S510, S550 and T550 feature a radius lift path, providing operators the reach and visibility they require for dumping over a wall, backfilling or loading flatbed trucks.

The S530, S570, S590 and T590 models feature a vertical lift path, providing operators with the ability to lift heavier loads higher, making it easier to clear high-sided truck boxes and hoppers, as well as placing pallets loaded with heavy material. The M-Series vertical lift path machines feature an increased lift height over the equivalent K-Series models. 

 Meanwhile 178 Caterpillar is introducing an array of new compact tracked loaders and multi terrain loaders that offer increased performance. The firm now offers eight D Series rubber-track loaders, which range in rated operating capacity from 1.27tonnes to 2.1tonnes. Mid-size frame models, as narrow as 1.67m, are the 257D Multi Terrain Loader (MTL) and 259D Compact Track Loader (CTL). Larger frame models are the 277D and 287D MTLs and the 279D and 289D CTLs. These six D Series models feature an electronically controlled 3.3litre engine that meets Tier 4 Final emissions standards. The Cat C3.3B engine provides 55kW, with 8% more torque and an improvement in fuel economy of 6% compared to the previous models.

The new and updated machines feature a new cab to boost operator comfort and control, new lift arm design for improved sight lines, and increased engine performance for greater productivity. The six new D Series models are replacements for their B3, C and C2 Series predecessors.

The Cat MTL and CTL models retain torsion-axle suspensions to isolate track-roller frames from the chassis, providing a smoother ride and absorbing shock loads. Cat CTLs feature durable, steel embedded track and steel undercarriage components for maximum life in aggressive applications.

The D Series models feature the Cat Intelligent Levelling (ILEV) system, which provides dual self-levelling, electronic snubbing, return-to-dig and work tool positioning.

Lift arms for all D Series machines are a new tubular design that retains the lift characteristics and strength while presenting a narrower profile. The sleek lift arm design improves sight lines to the sides of the machine and to the work-tool/coupler interface for better visibility and safety.

The curved design of 269 LiuGong’s new 375B skid steer loader improves sight lines and makes the machine stand out. The curves also provide another, much less obvious benefit, cutting noise levels inside the cab according to the firm. The 375B also features improved weight distribution that enables better balance, stability and control. The narrow stance and panoramic view combine for quality handling and control in tight quarters. The machine lifts to a dump clearance height of 2.2m and a lift speed of 4.1
seconds. The 375B rated operating load is 865kg in its standard configuration. The skid steer travels at up to 10.6kph and features hydrostatic transmission. The 299 Perkins 404F-22T diesel is rated at 40kW net power and meets North America Tier IV Final emissions standards.

Highly versatile skid steer loaders and compact loaders are being introduced by 1222 Terex. The Terex TSR60 skid steer loader offers a rated capacity of 680kg and is powered by the latest, low emission engine technology that meets Tier 4 Interim/Stage IIIB requirements. Also new from the firm is the largest machine in the compact wheeled loader range, the TL120. And this also is driven by low emission engine technology that meets Tier 4 Interim/Stage IIIB requirements. Both of these new machines offer more power and torque, along with reduced fuel consumption. The machines are also said to be easy to drive due to the use of the new Terex Smart Control system, offering precise, comfortable and productive operation.  

And 7139 Yanmar has added two new models of compact loader to its range that meet Tier 4 Final emissions regulations. The T210-1 compact tracked loader and S270V-1 skid steer loader share a 52kW 4TNV98CT engine that meets Tier 4 Final emissions using a diesel particulate filter combined with common rail fuel injection and cooled exhaust gas recirculation (EGR).

With an operating weight of 3.69tonnes and a rated operating capacity of 1.22tonnes, the S270V-1 skid steer loader offers a 19.2km/h travel speed with the option of a two-speed transmission. The low ground pressure, rubber tracked T210-1 compact tracked loader weighs in at a 4.48tonnes and offers a 953kg rated operating capacity. The T210-1 also features automatic track tensioning, anti-stall hydrostatic pump and the option of two quick hitch systems.