Equipment monitoring and operator comfort among Cat cold planer updates
Cat's updated cold planers are more comfortable and efficient to operate
The Caterpillar PM600 and PM800 cold planer series delivers milling widths from 79.1 to 98.6 in (2010 to 2505 mm) for contractors to deliver milling precision on jobs. As part of Caterpillar's annual product update program, the latest PM620, PM622, PM820, PM822, and PM825 models provide multiple operator comfort, efficiency, and equipment management upgrades compared to their previous models.
Comfortable work environment
The operator's workstation is designed for all-day comfort with adjustable consoles, large, cushioned armrests, hip rests, and optional anti-fatigue floor mats. The centre console displays a telescope to bring the touchscreens within easy reach of the operator. Additionally, the displays fold for secure and convenient storage. Available as an option, an adjustable operator control console slides sideways and rotates to help boost efficiency and reduce fatigue.
A new pedestal seat option allows operators to rest their legs and feet while running the machine. It is designed to quickly and easily retract out of the way when not in use.
The updated machines feature a ladder and gate design that offers unimpeded ascent or descent from the operator platform, and the updated retractable right-side handrail helps to simplify maneuverability around obstacles. To enhance the operator's sight lines to the front tracks, the new design incorporates flush-mounted front ground control panels.
Operation ugrades on the cold planers
Caterpillar notes that these machines have been designed to maximize torque transfer, the PM600 and PM800 series rotor drive system features a heavy-duty dry clutch, automatic belt tensioning system, and two high-tensile belts to drive the rotor. A redesigned anti-slab plow delivers improved operation and reduced wear compared to the previous design. Additionally, design upgrades to the anti-slab-to-conveyor sealing help to contain more material to improve milling efficiency and reduce cleanup.
The cold planers' ground displays now feature a robust mounting system that also enables the ground crew to change mounting locations and store the displays without removing any clamps or electrical connectors. Two rear keypads include controls for leg height, water spray, side plates, moldboard, rear door, and steering, while the flush-mount front keypads offer controls for the conveyor, side plates, anti-slab, high-pressure washdown, water spray, inboard ski, and fuel fill pump.
Available as part of the optional enhanced lighting package, the addition of high-visibility, colour LED lightbars replace traditional water level tubes and floats, helping crews easily identify water tank levels day or night and from much farther distances. The touchscreen displays automatically change to night mode when working lights are activated to help assist with visibility.
Uptime enhancments
The PM600 and PM800 cold planers series now come standard with Cat Remote Services technology to help improve machine diagnostics and operating efficiency when within cell range coverage. Remote Troubleshoot allows the Cat dealer to perform diagnostic testing on the connected machine, enabling the technician to pinpoint issues while the mill is operating, so they arrive with the correct parts and tools the first time. Remote Flash enables contractors to update onboard software without the need for a technician, so updates can be initiated at a convenient time without interrupting production.
Optional productivity features of VisionLink, now available with a VisionLink PerformancePro subscription, help contractors measure, monitor, and manage the cold planers to maximize productivity on or off the job site. Critical, actionable machine operating data, such as wait time for trucks, time spent cutting and maneuvering around the job site, as well as distances cut, fuel burned, and detailed cycle location mapping, is transmitted from the job site to the VisionLink web platform for users to access anywhere an internet connection is available.
The Cat Inspect mobile application tool enables operators and technicians to quickly perform digital preventative maintenance checks, inspections, and daily walkarounds.
