Caterpillar’s new RM400 Rotary Mixer, which replaces the RM300 Rotary Mixer, offers many new features and enhancements including 19 per cent more power, an enhanced operating environment and improved maneuverability.
The machine delivers a 2.4 metre cutting width and weighs in at 23,500 kg.
The Cat C9.3 engine provides 417 hp of power and meets Tier 4 Final and EU Stage V emission standards.
As well, the rotary mixer is equipped with standard all-wheel drive and utilizes four independent drive pumps for maximum torque while providing traction and greater speed for moving around the job site.
An operating length of 9.56 metres is 44 cm shorter than its predecessor, the RM300. The shorter length improves maneuverability in commercial zones, parking lots and residential areas, while also enhancing visibility.
Sliding cab
A full left to right sliding cab enhances side-to-side viewing to the tire edges and rotor cut lines for improved production. Standard front and rear facing cameras viewed through a display in the cab enhance visibility, while optional side mounted cameras provide good sight lines along the Rotary mixer for enhanced safety.
Additionally, optional cameras may be mounted in front and behind the rotor chamber. The front camera assists the operator when cutting close to obstacles such as manholes and curbs, while the rear camera provides a good view of the discharge material. Viewing these cameras from the operator’s station requires an additional touch screen display.
Hand-wheel steering offers simple control and forward viewing, while a joystick controls the rear wheels when utilizing select modes for more precise control. A tablet sized LCD display keeps the operator informed of machine functions, including the front and rear door opening of the rotor chamber.
Rotor speeds options
The rotary mixer is equipped with three different rotor speeds to help deliver the desired material gradation.
An electronic controller keeps the rotor at the proper depth and the machine at a consistent speed to ensure optimal blending performance. The RM400 may be equipped with a water spray system in conjunction with an emulsion system to save time when additives are needed.
Four rotor options are available for a variety of applications. A universal rotor can be used for either full depth reclamation or soil stabilization and is equipped with 200 point-attack carbide-tipped tools.
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A soil rotor is used for a variety of mixing and stabilization applications and blends additives with semi-cohesive or granular materials and is equipped with 238 point-attack, carbide-tipped tools.
The combination rotor is designed primarily for use in soil stabilization applications in cohesive materials, but also works well for light asphalt reclamation. The combination rotor is equipped with 114 point-attack, carbide-tipped tools. A spade rotor is also available. The highly productive spade rotor is utilized solely for mixing soils and is fitted with 58 bolt-on spade tools.
Rotary mixer maintenance
Daily service points are grouped and easily accessible. The engine hood easily tilts forward with the flip of a switch for easy access to the cooling system and engine. The cooling system utilizes a variable speed fan that can be set to periodically reverse direction for short intervals during operation. The design helps the system shed accumulated dust and keep the system cleaner for efficiency and extended service intervals.
An optional onboard air compressor combined with the tilting rotor hood and large, rear discharge door makes changing rotor bits quick and easy.
The RM400 Rotary Mixer will be available second quarter 2020.
