Caterpillar updates its largest open bowl tractor-scraper

tractor-scraper

Equipped with the field-proven, twin-power design to boost cycle times, the new Cat 657 Wheel Tractor-Scraper (WTS) is designed to elevate productivity and deliver low-cost earthmoving. 

The new scraper delivers a 7 per cent increase in fuel efficiency compared to the 657G WTS, which means more material is moved per unit of fuel burned. As well, improved onboard payload estimating helps optimize productivity. 

The largest open bowl scraper in the Caterpillar line, with a rated load of 46.4 tonnes, now has a more spacious cab to boost operator comfort and efficiency in high volume earthmoving, highway construction and mining applications.

“This new 657 is the next generation of ultra-class material moving systems,” said John Gerhold, wheel tractor-scraper application specialist for Caterpillar.

“It delivers improved productivity, safety and technology, which our customers can use to strengthen their business today — and it is equipped to grow with them to meet tomorrow’s requirements.”  

Via Payload Estimator, the 657 features on-the-go weighing, allowing the new WTS to achieve 95 per cent load accuracy, so operators easily reach target load goals. 

In colder climates, the unique Auto-Stall feature brings the transmission to operating temperature at startup, so the 657 quickly gets to work. As well, Ground Speed Control lowers fuel consumption by allowing the operator to set the desired top speed, allowing the machine to find the gear that works best for the engine and transmission.

Two-engine design

The two-engine design includes the Cat C18 powering the tractor and Cat C15 in the scraper. Both engines meet Tier 4 Final and EU Stage V emissions standards.

The wheel tractor-scraper’s Advanced Productivity Electronic Control System (APECS) allows the machine to better utilize engine power and torque, resulting in more material moved throughout the shift. The transmission also features Electronic Clutch Pressure Control, which improves shift quality and fuel efficiency. 

Furthermore, new hydraulic disc brakes improve braking performance and reduce maintenance.

Comfortable operation

Equipped with a 21 per cent larger cab interior than the previous model, the 657 improves operator comfort and provides excellent visibility to the bail, cutting edge and bowl. The air suspension comfort seat adjusts and rotates 30-degrees to reduce fatigue, while the new Advance Ride Management adjusts damping to match ground conditions, resulting in a smoother ride for the operator. 

Automatic HVAC temperature control and defroster are standard for increased operator comfort. The new power access ladder enhances operator safety when entering and exiting the cab.

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The wheel tractor-scraper also includes a new high-pressure steering system that requires less steering input to boost operator efficiency and productivity.

Automatically engaging when the machine is in eighth gear, engine overspeed protection assists in slowing machine speed when approaching engine limits.  Sequence Assist is another new option on the 657, which automates many operator inputs each cycle to simplify machine operation.

The 657 tractor includes a new hydraulic on-demand fan that increases engine fuel efficiency. The machine also has draft-arm overflow guards, which prevent material buildup between the draft arms and bowl sides. Ground-level access for fuel fill and all daily maintenance points increases service efficiency and safety to increase machine uptime.

Integrated Payload Estimator and Cat Product Link technologies provide real-time payload, machine location, fuel usage and idle time information as well as diagnostic fault codes.

A collective view of critical machine operating data is accessed via VisionLink from anywhere there is an internet connection. My.cat.com links managers directly to their VisionLink account and offers access to maintenance schedules, parts and service records as well as warranty information.