Cat Invests $125 Million in ADTs

745C is one of biggest product development programs in recent Caterpillar history

June 19, 2015

The 745C can haul 45 tons (41 metric tons).

Caterpillar invested $125 million and five years of R&D to develop their newest articulated trucks: the 735C, 740C EJ and 745C. They meet Tier 4 Final emission standards but that is just a part of the story. There are new transmissions with expanded electronic control, automatic traction control, automatic retarder control, hill assist and waiting brake systems, and an optional payload weighing system. The end result is lower cost per ton by reducing cycle times, saving fuel, and easing the operator’s work load.

Rated payload capacities for the new models are 36, 42 and 45.2 tons (32.7, 38, and 41 mt), respectively, for the 735C, 740C EJ and 745C.

At the recent launch of the trucks at Tinaja Hills – Cat’s Demonstration and Learning Center south of Tucson, Arizona – Scott Thomas, a Caterpillar application specialist, explained key aspects of the 745C. One point he emphasized was that while the truck may look very similar on the outside to its predecessor, the 740B, it is entirely new. For example, by reducing the weight of the truck, the 745C can carry an extra 1.7 tons (1.5 mt) compared to the 740B. Along with faster cycle times, this truck delivers a significant production increase.

The 740C EJ ejector model combines the 745C tractor with a horizontal-discharge body. Being able to unload material to uniform depths while travelling at speed, it can potentially reduce the need for spreading equipment. Another advantage is its stability to unload in soft underfoot conditions, on side slopes and grades, and in environments where overhead obstructions are present.

The 735C has a Cat C15 ACERT engine rated at 452 hp (337 kW) and the 740C EJ and 745C use the C18 ACERT engine rated at 511 hp (381 kW).

Articulated trucks designed for sale in higher regulated territories are equipped with the Cat Clean Emissions Module (CEM). This aftertreatment system includes a diesel particulate filter that can automatically regenerate (remove accumulated soot) without operator intervention or work cycle disruption. The fully integrated Cat CEM also includes a selective catalytic reduction system and diesel exhaust fluid (DEF) tank, with the DEF tank being easily accessed from ground level.

Numerous advanced features

The new Cat CX38 High Density Power Shift transmission used in the C Series trucks has nine forward speeds, two reverse speeds, and a number of electronic features that improve performance.

Electronic Clutch Pressure Control modulates transmission-clutch engagement for smooth shifting and extended component life, and the Advanced Productivity Electronic Control Strategy feature is aimed at optimizing gear selection in all operating situations for performance and fuel economy.

Shift Torque Management, combined with the improved Shift Control Logic feature, maintains consistent torque flow though the transmission during gear-range changes, provides automatic shift selection tailored to machine operation, and automatically downshifts for acceleration. Part Throttle Shifting allows shifting at lower engine speeds, resulting in better fuel efficiency, quieter operation, and easier low-speed maneuvering.

Automatic Traction Control adjusts the engagement of the clutch locks in the inter-axle differential and in the three axle differentials when the trucks, with permanent six-wheel drive, encounter changing terrain and underfoot conditions. The system makes these adjustments while the machine is moving and does not require operator intervention. The system maintains optimum traction for steady production, relieves the operator of manually engaging the system, saves fuel by proportionally applying the locks based on operating conditions, and does not hinder tight maneuver steering.

Retarding control for the C Series models can now be set to fully automatic, in addition to manual control. In automatic mode, the machine manages retarding through a combination of engine brake, gear selection, and service brake application without operator intervention. The automatic system is available for both forward and reverse operations, and the manual system provides two levels of engagement for more experienced operators.

Operation is easier with the Hill Assist system, which facilitates stopping and starting on grades, and the Waiting Brake system, which temporarily applies the service brakes during pauses in the work cycle, whether waiting at the loading or dumping site or delays from site congestion.

Payload and production measurement

Cat Connect PAYLOAD technologies for the 735C, 740C EJ, and 745C help customers optimize operations and improve overall jobsite efficiency.

The automatic payload weighing system uses multiple sensors. As the truck is loaded, a green light behind the cab changes to a flashing red, then solid red when the truck is full.

With Cat Production Measurement as an option, operators can measure and deliver accurate payloads with confidence to boost productivity, lower costs and prevent the potential for overload damage. When used with Cat Connect LINK technologies, PAYLOAD data can be accessed through the online VisionLink user interface.