The new loaders boast several new features.
Improved loader range from Bobcat
Bobcat has launched its improved range of compact tracked loaders that features a host of innovations aimed to boost productivity and extend service life.
01 April 2006
Bobcat, a business of the US-based Ingersoll-Rand company – a diversified industrial firm – has recently introduced new improved versions of its range of compact tracked loaders.
“All Bobcat compact tracked loaders now feature new track rollers and idlers, with a floating metal face seal design that helps to keep out debris and bi-metallic bushings for an extended service life,” says George Schmalzried, communications manager of Ingersoll-Rand. “In the T180, T190, T250 and T300 models, the undercarriages now feature an additional roller. The T250 and T300 models have five rollers instead of four, whilst the number of rollers in the T180 and T190 has increased from three to four. The additional roller reduces spacing between rollers, maximising the contact between the rollers and the track for a greater distribution of weight and increased drive power. The additional roller also helps to reduce wear and the possibility of de-tracking. Overall, this change provides a better ride quality, improved roller life and increased track life, especially important in demanding applications.”
Improved hydraulics
The hydraulic system previously used only in the T250 and T300 large-frame models is now being used as well in the T140, T180 and T190 medium-frame tracked loaders. This involves the addition of a dedicated charge pump to boost overall hydraulic performance. “As a result, hydraulic breakout forces have been increased by approximately eight per cent for better performance in heavy digging conditions. The hydraulic lift has also been increased by nearly seven per cent, allowing for greater lift to maximum height. The back pressure in the auxiliary hydraulic circuit has also been reduced by more than 50 per cent, improving hydraulic performance by eight per cent. This increase delivers more attachment torque, enhancing the performance of ground-engaging attachments, such as trenchers, augers and planers. It also reduces the chances of stalling and the need to reposition the attachment,” he says.
“In the new large-frame T250 and T300 models, the installation of a larger displacement hydraulic pump has increased the high flow auxiliary hydraulic option to 151 litres per minute, resulting in increased hydraulic power and improved attachment performance. The T250 and T300 also incorporate a new hydrostatic drive motor with larger bearings and a larger seal for increased reliability and durability,” adds Schmalzried.
In addition, the T300 features new, longer lift cylinders, increasing the maximum height to the bucket hinge pin by 51 mm, giving the operator more lift height in applications such as truck loading and placing pallets.
Bobcat has introduced some common innovative features for the entire range of compact tracked loaders such as the following:
• SmartFAN: A more efficient cooling system – thanks to the new hydraulically-driven, infinitely variable speed fan, that senses the temperature of the machine and turns only as fast as it has to, in order to meet cooling requirements – has been introduced in all the compact tracked loaders. Since it uses less power and is up to 30 per cent quieter than the previous Bobcat cooling fans, this innovative system results in cooler, quieter operation. The SmartFAN is at the centre of a dual-path cooling system that draws in cool, clean air from above through the oil cooler and radiator and pulls hot air from the engine and hydrostatic area, before both airstreams are exhausted out via two side vents. The large-capacity hydraulic system on the loaders precludes the need for a large hydraulic reservoir for the cooling system.
• Wiring harness: All Bobcat compact tracked loaders now also feature a new main wiring harness, specifically designed for rugged applications, with a 30 per cent increase in the number of tie points and improved reliability thanks to the use of a larger wire size in critical areas.
