The updated CAT 568 Forest Machine features many design upgrades including the addition of CAT’s electrohydraulic control system, 25% more cab space, attachment locator and settings memory as well as Product Link technology.
“The 568 has earned its reputation for moving the biggest timber with terrific power and reliability,” said Giacomo Bottone, worldwide director for Caterpillar’s forestry and medium excavator family. “The Next Generation 568 will build on that by being even more productive with added benefits of greater comfort and safety. Plus, owners will spend a lot less time and money on maintenance.”
Power and reliability with less maintenance
With its update to the 568 Forest Machine, CAT integrates an electrohydraulic control system in its.
Previously, in 2018, CAT’s redesign of its 20-ton excavators saw the integration of this same system.
According to CAT, this system gives 568 Forest Machine 10% greater swing torque and 14% more drawbar pull.
Also, in “smart mode,” the 568 matches its engine and hydraulic power to working conditions, potentially reducing fuel consumption up to 5%.
In terms of cold-start capability, CAT claims that the 568 will reliably start in temperatures as low as -32°C (-25°F) and in high ambient temperatures of 52°C (126°F). Reliability in these temperatures could make the 568 capable of working year-round.
Additionally, CAT claims that it will operate without derating at altitudes as high as 3,000 m (9,842 ft).
One thing CAT looks to achieve with this update to the 568 is reduce maintenance frequency and costs.
According to CAT, in comparison to the previous generation, this updated 568 will use 65 fewer filters over 12,000 hours. This would lower maintenance costs by as much as 15%.
“Our new electrohydraulic control system eliminates the need for a pilot filter and pilot oil altogether,” said Bottone.
This electrohydraulic control system is not new and has been present in CAT’s 20-ton excavators for a few year.
However, its integration into the 568 is a new development in CAT’s forestry lineup.
Also, fuel filters will feature a synchronized 1,000-hour change interval, which would double the service of the previous generation.
According to CAT, a new hydraulic oil return delivers a 3,000-hour service life. This would be a 50% improvement over the previous generation.
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A safe, comfortable and efficient environment
According to CAT, the cab of the updated 568 will be roomier and safer.
The CAT 568 will be available with the option of side-entry or rear-entry.
Upon entry, operators can enjoy a 25%-larger interior space.
The addition of a polycarbonate windshield—33 mm (1.25 inch) thick—aims to protect operators from debris, especially in dense foliation.
Additionally, according to CAT, an operator’s field-of-view will be enhanced by 50%. Narrowing of the cab’s pillars, enlarged windows and a flat hood are cause for this improvement.
When ready to start the CAT 568’s 9.3B engine, operators have options. A push-to-start button is located in the cab, Bluetooth key fob will start it from a distance or operators can use Operator ID.
To explain, the Operator ID function allows operators to program and store their own machine settings and attachment function preferences.
So, when taking over for another operator, or switching attachments, operators do not have to waste time fiddling with settings; they can get right to work.
In addition to attachment function memory, available for the updated CAT 568 is the CAT PL161 Attachment Locator. This feature assists operators in locating their tools within a range of 60 m (200 ft), even if the missing instrument is covered by foliage or debris.
Modern technology
CAT’s Product Link™ technology is a welcome addition to the updated 568 Forest Machine.
This telematics system captures critical operating data, fault codes and location information in an attempt to boost fleet management efficiency.
The Remote Troubleshoot feature analyzes data in real time and, according to CAT, can reduce the need for service trips.
Also, Remote Flash is a feature that works around production schedules to update machine software.
“The Next Generation 568 is perfect for loggers who need to move heavy logs more efficiently, comfortably, and safely,” said Bottone. “When you add in a Cat dealer network committed to forestry, you get a winning combination of machine and support that simply can’t be beat in the woods.”
