Track drives may be considered conventional, but they are, nonetheless, a key to the success of Komatsu's CD110R-2 crawler carrier. Another essential function is 360° rotation of the machine's upper structure — also made possible by hydraulics.
Komatsu america, Vernon Hills, Ill., continues its onslaught of innovative machines by taking full advantage of versatile hydraulics. Among the latest in their innovations is the CD110R-2 crawler carrier.
The CD110 offers 360° rotation so loads can be dumped in any direction, eliminating the need for Uturns and requiring no space for directional changes. Plus, the operator can always face forward, and controls are designed so the operator does not have to repeatedly switch from forward to reverse operations. These features combine to improve productivity, safety, and machine durability.
Hydraulics provides safety and productivity
A joystick lever controls rotation of the upper structure. Two lighttouchlevers provide travel control. Using the same proportional pressure control found in Komatsu's
dozers, the travel control provides engine power to the tracks in proportion to control lever movement, as well as independent control of each track. Adding to the ergonomic design is a foot pedal for actuating the dump cylinder. This keeps the cab from becoming cluttered and provides a balance of hand and foot controls for greater comfort and productivity. To enhance safety, a lock lever blocks operation of the upper structure rotation, track drive, and dump cylinder.
Komatsu's Bob Lessner says, "The crawler carrier is designed to work in adverse conditions where articulated trucks cannot, yet provide high productivity." The machine's low ground pressure of 3.6 psi (unloaded) allows the machine to access work in environmentally sensitive areas. In cases of heavy loads during high-speed travel, the CD110's transmission automatically shifts to low-speed range.
