Kawasaki Heavy Industries, Ltd. announced today that it has shipped a payload fairing (PLF*1) for the H-IIA Launch Vehicle No.17 to Japan’s Tanegashima Space Center. Design and manufacturing of the PLF was performed at Kawasaki’s Gifu Works before the fairing was assembled and shipped from its Harima Works. Upon arrival at the Tanegashima Space Center, the PLF will be delivered to Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, Ltd. who will be executing the launch. Mitsubishi will incorporate the PLF into the H-IIA Launch Vehicle No. 17 in preparation for the upcoming launch scheduled for this spring.

The four-meter diameter PLF has a single launch configuration (4S) and can accommodate a large satellite similar to those carried by the NASA space shuttle or the European Space Agency’s Ariane V. The H-IIA Launch Vehicle No. 17 will carry the Planet-C*2 (Akatsuki), an unmanned spacecraft designed to explore Venus that was developed by the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA). It will also carry JAXA’s small solar powered sail demonstration vehicle (IKAROS*3) as well as four smaller satellites that were selected by JAXA after public solicitation.

Since delivering the first PLF for the H-II launch vehicle in 1988, Kawasaki has supplied payload fairings for a total of seven H-II launch vehicles. Kawasaki has a proven track record of designing and building a variety of PLFs for H-IIA launch vehicles, including four-meter single (4S), four-meter dual (4/4D), and five-meter single fairings(5S). These PLFs have been a key component in 16 H-IIA launch vehicles to date.

Kawasaki has developed and manufactured a wide spectrum of H-IIA launch vehicle PLFs designed to meet a broad range of payload specifications, including the launch of large satellites as well as the simultaneous launch of two satellites. Kawasaki is playing a vital role in today’s satellite launch industry via the development and production of cutting-edge PLFs.

Overview of PLF for H-IIA Launch Vehicle No. 17
Type: 4-m single fairing (4S)
Length: 12 m
Diameter: Approximately 4.1 m
Maximum payload size: 10.2 m long and 3.7 m in diameter

*1. A payload fairing is an enclosure installed at the tip of a launch vehicle that protects the satellite from aerodynamic heating, acoustic noise and vibration during liftoff. After the launch vehicle leaves the earth’s atmosphere, the fairing splits in two and is jettisoned, allowing the satellite to separate from the launch vehicle.

*2. Planet-C is a spacecraft developed by JAXA for studying the climate and meteorological phenomena surrounding Venus. Its mission is to closely observe Venusian atmospheric dynamics via continuous imaging data obtained by ultraviolet and infrared cameras as well as radio waves.

*3. IKAROS (Interplanetary Kite-craft Accelerated by Radiation of the Sun) is a spaceship which uses solar radiation pressure on its ultra thin sail as a means of propulsion. It will be used to demonstrate that a spacecraft can cruise through space with only the use of a sail and generate electricity by means of thin film solar cells.

Source: http://www.khi.co.jp/ba/2010data/ba_c3100208_1.html

Caterpillar is pleased to announce the introduction of the C7 ACERT®, C9 ACERT and C32 ACERT hazardous location water-cooled manifold engines. Caterpillar designed these engines to meet the requirements of the hazardous location environments often found in offshore applications. These engines are required when running in an application where any ignition source from the engine such as hot skin temp or electrical arching could cause an explosion due to the hazardous chemicals or gases in the environment.

The Cat® hazardous location engines can be configured at the following ratings:

• C7 ACERT: 205, 230, 275 bhp at 2200 rpm
• C9 ACERT: 340 bhp at 2200 rpm
• C32 ACERT: 800, 860, 920, 1100 bhp at 2100 rpm

These engines meet the most current land and offshore emissions requirements, including EPA Tier 3, EU Stage IIIA, IMO and EPA Marine Tier 2 emissions requirements. Additionally, with the use of the EPA Tier 4 flexibility provisions, the EPA Tier 3 ratings will be applicable for land based applications until 2018.

The new engines, which are currently available for purchase through the Cat global dealer network, provide additional cooling options based on the application. Both the Separate Circuit (water-to-air) Aftercooled (SCAC) and Remote Aftercooled (REMAC) cooling system options are available on the C7 ACERT and C9 ACERT engines to increase flexibility and ease of installation. The C32 ACERT features the Separate Circuit (water-to-air) Aftercooled (SCAC) cooling system.

These engines represent the next generation in technology for addressing the needs of emissions and hazardous location applications, including these factory certifications:

• ” ATEX 94/9 Group II, 3G (Zone 2) Ex nA nR T3 Certification
• o electrical system certified to gas group IIC
• o mechanical system certified to gas group IIA
• ” NEC 500 - Class I Division 2 Non-incendive Field Wiring Group T3 Certification
• ” NEC 505 - Class I Zone 2 AEx nA nR Group IIC T3 Certification

Cat water-cooled exhaust manifold engines feature water-cooled exhausts and turbochargers to maintain lower engine skin temperatures. Mostly used in offshore applications, the reduced engine skin temperature allows the engine to operate in enclosed areas and around hazardous materials. ATEX safety directives require that engine skin temperatures remain below 200° C (T3). In order to comply, the C7 ACERT, C9 ACERT and C32 ACERT ATEX configurations come with software to automatically derate engine power to maintain ATEX T3 skin temperatures in all ambient conditions up to 45°C.

The Caterpillar custom package solution
The Caterpillar custom packaging team offers complete engine/transmission packages for demanding well servicing applications including workover, pumping and fracturing. These Cat packages are designed specifically for optimal performance and seamless integration.

Each fully integrated package carries a full Caterpillar warranty on package and components and is supported by the Cat global dealer network.

Source: http://india.cat.com/cda/files/2118432/7/P03PR10final.doc

Caterpillar is pleased to announce oil and gas specific product plans to meet upcoming US EPA Tier 4 emissions regulations that take effect in the year 2011 for products with power ratings above 130 kW (175 bhp). This important regulation will require emissions reductions of particulate matter (PM) by 90% and oxides of nitrogen (NOx) up to 50% beyond EPA Tier 3 standards. Caterpillar remains committed to lowering emissions to support sustainable development and will continue to deliver the reliability and durability oil and gas customers demand.

To develop a full product line of Tier 4 solutions, Caterpillar has undertaken the single greatest technology investment in company history. Caterpillar has been working directly with oil and gas customers to determine key requirements. Through this market research, tailored solutions have been created to reduce emissions, maintain or improve durability, minimize OEM equipment redesign costs, and lower owning and operating costs.

Caterpillar will make a significant transition to meet Tier 4 regulations through the integration of a suite of next generation emission reduction technologies to optimally meet and exceed requirements of oil and gas customers. This includes Tier 4 Interim solutions up to 1200 bhp across eight engine models.

In addition, and in direct response to the needs of petroleum customers, Caterpillar will offer Tier 4 Final ratings of the Cat® C18 ACERT (>751 bhp), C27 ACERT, and C32 ACERT products ranging in horsepower from 765 bhp - 1125 bhp. These engines are used for a wide variety of petroleum applications, including some of the most demanding in the industry - pressure pumping, cementing and well fracturing. These Tier 4 Final compliant engines will be available in 2010, more than four years earlier than required. This strategy will significantly lower engineering costs for customers and reduce overall environmental impact and fleet complexity.

All Tier 4 engines were designed with the same quality that customers expect from Caterpillar. In addition to validation for Cat machines and other commercial engines, these products are being validated specifically to petroleum applications in both the lab and the field to ensure reliability and durability are not compromised.

Caterpillar is specifically prepared to aid dealers and customers with the tools needed to succeed at Tier 4 and beyond. Through focused training, dedicated application resources, world class product support and a highly skilled dealer network, Caterpillar is committed to easing the transition for customers while reaching sustainable development goals.

Source: http://india.cat.com/cda/files/2077881/7/P01PR10.doc

Caterpillar Inc. is pleased to announce the introduction of five new Cat® Tier 4 Interim/Stage IIIB Technology Industrial engines. The models are identified as C13 ACERT™, C15 ACERT, C18 ACERT, C27 ACERT and C32 ACERT. The new engines range from 385 -1200 bhp (287 to 895 bkW) and provide a seamless horsepower range, broad product choices and powerful advantages for Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) of agricultural, construction, mining, forestry and general industrial markets. All engines are also available with an extensive choice of options ideally suited to meet OEM and end customer requirements across a wide range of heavy duty applications.

These Cat engines continue the legacy of durability, reliability, maximum fuel efficiency, low cost of ownership and World Class support provided by the Cat dealer network.

Cat industrial engines which cover the 175-750 hp (130-560 kW) range, are equipped with a robust, fully integrated Cat Clean Emissions Module (CEM) and the Cat NOx Reduction System (NRS). The new package has been extensively tested to provide OEMs with the optimum flexibility for cleaner, more efficient, reliable Cat power. As with all Cat ACERT Tier 4 Interim technology engines, ACERT Technologies are the key enablers to achieve a significant 90% reduction of Particulate Matter (PM) and a 45% reduction of Oxides of Nitrogen (NOx).

The new C13 ACERT is a 12.5 liter displacement engine and delivers 385-475 bhp (287-354 bkW). It develops exceptional performance with high torque capability of up to 1604 lb-ft (2171 Nm) and is well suited for agricultural combines and rock crushers. It is electronically controlled and features a dependable mechanically actuated electronic fuel injection (MEUI) system and asymmetric turbocharger.

The new C15 ACERT is a 15.2 liter displacement engine and delivers 475-580 bhp (354-433 bkW) and provides improved lower end power density compared to the Tier 3/Stage IIIA configuration. This engine has outstanding torque up to 1958 lb-ft (2655 Nm) to power OEM equipment in the most extreme operating conditions and is used extensively in rock drills, hydraulic power units, and other industrial applications.

The new C18 ACERT is an 18.1 liter displacement engine that delivers 600-765 bhp (448-571 bkW). Depending on power requirements, a single asymmetric or series turbocharger is utilized which maximizes performance. The C18 ACERT is an ideal choice for air compressors, cold planers, trenchers and agricultural applications. Power density for the 765 bhp (571bKw) rating has been significantly increased over the Tier 3/Stage IIIA model and does not require aftertreatment.

The new C15 ACERT and C18 ACERT are built on a common core platform and share similar physical dimensions. This offers significant value to OEM’s and can lower installation costs for machines by providing multiple power options across a very wide (475 - 765 HP, 354-571 bkW) power range.

The new C27 ACERT is a 27 liter 800-1050 bhp (597-783 bkW) engine and is easily integrated into OEM equipment powered by the Cat Tier 2 configuration or competitive offering. It produces maximum torque of up to 3539 lb-ft (4798 Nm) and is well suited for biomass grinders, rock drills, heavy duty pumps and other industrial applications. It features side mounted asymmetric turbochargers and a dependable next generation mechanically actuated electronic fuel injection (MEUI) system. It is electronically controlled and delivers world-class performance and fuel economy.

The new C32 ACERT is a 32.1 liter displacement engine producing 950-1200 bhp (708-895 bkW). The new platform is equipped with side mounted asymmetric turbochargers and is the ideal choice for biomass grinders and rock drills.

Built on a common core platform, the C27 ACERT and C32 ACERT offer OEMs additional flexibility by providing multiple power options (800 - 1200 bhp) from identical base engines. The C27 ACERT and C32 ACERT for industrial applications will not require aftertreatment to achieve Tier 4 Interim emissions.

The addition of these five engines completes the introduction of the Cat Industrial Tier 4 Interim/Stage IIIB line. With over twenty Tier 4 Interim/Stage IIIB industrial engines, Cat again provides a full range of power solutions from 10-1200 bhp for global OEM applications.

New Model bhp bKw Aspiration

• C13 ACERT^™ 385–475 287–354 Turbocharged
• C15 ACERT 475–580 354–433 Turbocharged
• C18 ACERT 600–765 448–571 Turbocharged
• C27 ACERT 800–1050 597–783 Turbocharged
• C32 ACERT 950–1200 708–895 Turbocharged

Every Cat industrial engine has been designed with extensive OEM customer input and legendary Caterpillar machine integration experience. This customer focused design results in flexible power solutions that easily integrate into OEM off road equipment and deliver reliable, durable performance in the harshest applications.

For more than 80 years, Caterpillar Inc. has been making progress possible and driving positive and sustainable change on every continent. With 2009 sales and revenues of $32.4 billion, Caterpillar is one of the world’s leading manufacturers of construction and mining equipment, diesel and natural gas engines, and industrial gas turbines.

Source: http://india.cat.com/cda/files/2073648/7/IPR0110%20C13_C32Fin.doc

Hitachi Plant Technologies, Ltd. (HQ: Tokyo; President & CEO: Masaharu Sumikawa) and Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, Ltd. (HQ: Tokyo; President: Hideaki Omiya), were granted on March 5, 2010, the first formal approval by the Japanese government for their jointly-developed Hitachi Ballast Water Purification System (ClearBallast).*1 Formal approval was based on the Procedure for Approval of Ballast Water Management Systems (G8), which is in accordance with the International Convention for the Control and Management of Ships’ Ballast Water and Sediments adopted by the IMO*2 in February 2004. This became the first formal approval issued by the Japanese government.

To gain this formal approval, the companies performed land-based testing near Tokyo Bay using an actual-scale device and on-board testing using a test device installed on an LPG tanker (capacity: 78,500 m3, built at the Nagasaki Mitsubishi Heavy Industries shipyard) owned by Yuyo Steamship Co., Ltd. (HQ: Kanagawa; President & CEO: Masashi Yoshizawa). These tests were carried out in parallel and both met the IMO Performance Standard.*3

Additionally, on July 17, 2009, ClearBallast received final IMO approval in accordance with the Procedure for Approval of Ballast Water Management Systems that Make Use of Active Substances (G9).
The company plans to aggressively market the system and has set orders for100 units as a sales target for fiscal 2012.

Notes:
*1. ClearBallast: Registered trademark of Hitachi,Ltd.used by Hitachi Plant Technologies under license.
*2. IMO: International Maritime Organization
*3. Ballast water discharge standards:

Note 1: Minimum size dimension. Note 2: cfu (colony forming unit)

Shipboard Testing Equipment LPG Tanker with Shipboard Testing Equipment

Land-based testing equipment

Overview of Hitachi Ballast Water Purification System (ClearBallast)
Used as ballast for stabilizing hull balance, ballast water usually contains plankton, bacteria, mud, and sand specific to the port from which it was drawn. Most ballast water is discharged in ports of nations different from where it was loaded. Consequently, foreign organisms are discharged along with the seawater, and the resulting impact on marine ecosystems has become an international issue.

To combat this problem, in February 2004, the IMO Council adopted the International Convention for the Control and Management of Ships’ Ballast Water and Sediments (Ballast Management Convention). The Convention requires that the IMO Performance Standards be applied in a stepwise manner to ships undertaking international voyages in line with the year of building and the ballast tank capacity, with all ships required to adopt the standard by 2017. In line with these requirements, there is now a need for ships to be fitted with ballast-water treatment systems.

ClearBallast purifies ballast water by combining magnetic separation technology developed for high-speed water treatment during rainy periods and coagulation technology used to remove plankton and bacteria at many water treatment plants. In contrast to sterilization-type approaches, the coagulation method does not use chlorine, ozone, ultraviolet light, or other disinfectants, and therefore, the risk of residual chemicals causing secondary contamination is removed. ClearBallast also has a smaller footprint and offers high-speed treatment through the use of bacteria flocculation (aggregation of small particles), which enables the use of coarse filters compared with ordinary filtration machines.

ClearBallast had to be optimized in line with advanced ship-design techniques to ensure that such a purification device could be installed on ships and could then operate as part of a fully integrated system. Focusing their collective expertise and experience, Hitachi Plant Technologies and Mitsubishi Heavy Industries conducted joint research in order to develop and commercialize ClearBallast, and were ultimately successful in realizing a device suitable for on-board use.

Features:
(1) Enhanced biological, environmental, and maritime safety
1. Even organisms growing in an environment consisting only of water treated by this system show no signs of inhibited growth or deformities.(Confirmed through organism toxicity testing.*4
2. Requiring no use of disinfectants, the system poses no threat of secondary contamination from residual chemicals.
3. The system has no adverse effect on paint or other coatings within the ballast tank. (Confirmed through corrosion assessment testing.)
The above benefits demonstrate how the new system can help to enhance biological, environmental, and maritime safety.
Note:
4. Biological toxicity testing: Biological toxicity testing compliant with guidelines set by the OECD (Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development). Culture tests were conducted for marine species skeletonema (algae), apohyale barbicornis (invertebrate), and javanica (type of fish) using treated water.

(2) Reduced mud buildup inside ballast tanks
Capable not only of eliminating plankton, bacteria and the like from sea water, the system can also remove sand, mud, and other suspended solids originating from the sea bed before they accumulate in the tank. In addition, it can prevent the buildup of mud consisting of dead organisms within the ballast tanks.

(3) Suppression of the breeding of bacteria and algae inside ballast tanks
ClearBallast not only inhibits the propagation of bacteria within mud, but because it also removes the bio-essential element phosphorous that is suspended in seawater, the system is able to greatly suppress the proliferation of algae generated in large amounts by red tide or other causes is by chance mixed into the ballast tank.

(4) Full line-up including explosion-proof specifications
Also being studied are special versions of the system with specifications to prevent explosion, making them highly suitable for use in oil tankers, liquefied gas tankers, container ships carrying hazardous cargo, chemical tankers, and the like. Hereafter plans are being made to apply for additional Japanese government approval for such a version.

(5) Efficient power usage
At 21 kW for 200 m3/h or 112 kW for 1,600 m3/h of ballast water, the system’s power consumption is relatively low, and as extra power-generation capacity may not necessarily be needed, the effect on the ship’s electrical system can be minimized.

(6) No affect on loading procedures
The system treats ballast water during intake, not discharge. Accordingly, no modification is needed to existing procedures used during the loading of cargo.

Operation Sequence
(1) Treatment is done when the water is taken on. First, magnetic power and flocculation agents are added to seawater in a high/low-speed roiling tank, and the water is roiled to form magnetized floc measuring around 1mm consisting of plankton, bacteria, mud, and other material.
(2) When then passed through a magnetic separator, the floc adheres to magnetic disks and is removed. Finally, the treated water is filtered in a filter separator, before being pumped into the ballast tanks.
(3) The system is safe because the plankton and bacteria contained in the recovered floc are killed through heat treatment.

Specification (The figures are based on February,2010 designs.)

**1: Indicates the footprint of each component.
**2: Includes the magnetic powder injector , inorganic coagulant injector and organic flocculant injector.

Notes:
As this system allows flexible equipment layout plans depending on ship’s structure,please contact us for details.
1:Equipment can be divided and installed at distant areas, if the installation area is limited.
2:As an alternative to confined space measures, it is also feasible to embed a coagulation tank,flocculation tank, and collected flocs heating equipment into a water tank including a unused ballast water tank.
3:The flocculation tank be rotated 90 degrees and installed as option.
4:Then the flocculation tank, the magnetic separator and the filter separator can be installed in a vertical formation.

Source: http://www.mhi.co.jp/en/news/story/100315en.html

As part of a long-term strategic initiative, Caterpillar Inc. (NYSE: CAT) today announced it has undertaken a study that could lead to a new hydraulic excavator facility being built in the United States. Such a move could triple the current capacity of hydraulic excavators now produced by the company in the U.S. and significantly increase Caterpillar’s employment in the U.S. dedicated to excavator production, and further leverage excavator production in Japan to serve increasing demand in China and across Asia.

“The study is based on the current analysis of where the global excavator market is heading and how Caterpillar should position itself for continued leadership in the excavator industry,” said Gary Stampanato, Caterpillar vice president with responsibility for excavators.

Currently, the company only produces two excavator models at a facility in Aurora, Ill., where it also produces wheel loaders, soil and landfill compactors, wheel dozers and components. In addition, Caterpillar produces excavators in Belgium, Brazil, China, France, Indonesia, Japan and Russia. If the contemplated decision is finalized, the new facility would manufacture the two models now made in Aurora, as well as several additional excavator models now produced in Japan and exported to the United States.

“The excavator business is highly competitive and continues to evolve with a diverse and growing number of manufacturers around the world,” Stampanato added. “As the global leader in the construction and mining equipment industry, it is imperative for Caterpillar to refine its excavator manufacturing strategy in order to provide customers with the products that will make them more productive and profitable.”

This study is part of a long-term strategic initiative to develop the appropriate global footprint needed to competitively produce hydraulic excavators. Hydraulic excavators are a core machine family made by the company and are widely used in applications around the world. If finalized and approved, the new U.S.- based factory would be the primary North American source for excavators. Under this scenario, Caterpillar’s Akashi, Japan, excavator facility would have the available capacity needed to better serve customers in the rapidly expanding Asia-Pacific region. Based on Caterpillar’s current long-term forecast for the Asia-Pacific region, it is possible Akashi may need to increase capacity and employment to help meet demand. A final decision regarding this study will be made at a later date.

Source: http://india.cat.com/cda/files/2110721/7/031110%20Caterpillar%20Contemplating%20Shift%20of%20Excavator%20Production%20from%20Japan%20to%20United%20States.pdf

Caterpillar Inc. announces the introduction of the CS44 and CP44 vibratory soil compactors. The new CS44 and CP44 offer many of the same industry-proven design and performance characteristics of the successful 400E-Series Soil Compactors as well as the Production-Class range. In addition, the CS44 and CP44 feature design enhancements that increase machine serviceability, reliability and operator comfort when compared to the current 400E-Series Vibratory Soil Compactors.

The CS44 and CP44 Vibratory Soil Compactors compete in the 5.5 – 8.0 metric ton machine class and features the exclusive Caterpillar dual pump propel system that provides superior gradeability. The dual pump propel system provides separate hydraulic flow to the rear wheels and the drum for exceptional tractive effort in soft underfoot conditions or steep slope applications and allows for superior control on a grade in forward and reverse.

Machine Drum Style Hp (kW) Operating Weights with ROPS/FOPS Cab

CS44 Smooth 102 (75) 7240 kg 3510 kg at drum

CP44 Padfoot 102 (75) 7635 kg 3860 kg at drum

High tractive effort, especially useful on steep slopes and soft lifts, helps increase production and expands the application range for the CS44 and CP44. The propel system features a unique dual pump arrangement. The two pumps provide hydraulic flow to the drum drive motor and wheel drive motor independently, so there is maximum torque and full-time tractive power to the drive motors regardless of traction or rolling resistance.

A limited slip differential, which maximizes rear wheel traction, is standard on all models. Top speed in forward and reverse is 12.3 km/h. The 1676 mm drum width provides maneuverability for working in confined quarters.

The new Cat® C4.4 engines with ACERT™ Technology feature a thicker engine block and more-robust components. This improved design makes the engines more reliable and helps them run more quietly. The C4.4 engine has a gross power rating of 75 kW (102 hp) at 2200 rpm. An improved engine airflow design vents engine heat at the rear of the machine. The design helps prevent exhaust from blowing ground-level debris, or blowing heat on the operator. The cooling system is also 25% larger than the system on the previous 433E-Series. This reduces operating temperatures, which reduces system wear and improves performance in hot environments.

The operator’s station on the new CS44 and CP44 Soil Compactors shares superior comfort, visibility and ease of operation as on the Production-Class Soil Compactors. The operator’s station features a tilting steering column that can be adjusted by the operator to any desired position. The steering column also moves out of the way for easy entrance and exit from the operator’s seat. The steering column offers more leg and knee room for a comfortable working environment. Machine gauges are clustered on the tilt steering column for easy reference.

The propel lever and parking brake switch are located to the right of the operator’s seat for convenient one-hand operation. The grouped controls feature a height adjustable, padded wrist rest that can be positioned for operator comfort. An optional leveling blade is available for the CP44 and padfoot shell kit-equipped CS44s. The leveling blade features a foot-operated control, giving the operator complete control of machine steering, blade operation and propel simultaneously.

The suspension seat is fully adjustable to include fore and aft positions, bottom cushion height and suspension stiffness. Flip-up armrests and a 76 mm wide retractable seat belt are standard. A rotating seat is optional. The rotating seat improves operator comfort when working in the reverse direction.

A bolt-on, two-post ROPS/FOPS canopy or a ROPS/FOPS cab is available. These configurations may be standard in some market areas and optional in others. Factory installed air conditioning for the cab is also standard in some market areas and optional in others.

Noise levels at the operator’s station and at ground level have been reduced for greater operator comfort with less noise emitted to the surrounding environment. A standard floor mat on the operator platform provides sure footing and also helps to further reduce noise and vibration transmitted to the operator. Four large isolation mounts isolate the operator platform from the machine frame for reduced vibration transfer to the operator’s station.

The CS44 and CP44 Soil Compactors are simple to operate, allowing crewmembers to learn quickly and maximize the compaction productivity of the machine. An easy-to-understand instrumentation panel allows the operator to quickly verify the status of machine systems. An audible warning alarm alerts the operator when abnormal conditions exist in the engine or hydraulic systems.

Improved operator visibility and excellent service access are achieved with the new, sloped rear hood design. The one-piece fiberglass hood allows for excellent visibility to the outside edge of the rear tires and to the rear of the machine from the operator’s station. The sloped hood allows the operator to see obstacles measuring 1 meter high and 1 meter to the rear of the machine. In the front of the machine, there is unrestricted visibility to the drum for precise operation.

Dual amplitude is standard on the CS44 and CP44. Maximum centrifugal force in high amplitude is 134 kN and 67 kN in low amplitude. Dual amplitude expands the application range for vibratory soil compactors. The large spread between high and low amplitude makes it easier for the operator to adapt compactive effort to changes in lift thickness, soil characteristics and density requirements while maintaining top performance.

The drum on the CS44 and CP44 incorporates a “pod” style housing to enclose the Caterpillar eccentric weight system. This design feature enhances reliability and makes servicing easier. The eccentric weight features an enclosed casting with repositioning steel shot on the inside. The direction of the weight shaft rotation determines high or low amplitude, which is controlled from the operator’s station. This system provides longer service life than competitive systems, which incorporate heavy weights that slam and wedge together, causing metal chips that contaminate the system.

The pod-style weight housing is a sealed chamber inside which the eccentric weight spins. The pod is assembled and sealed in a “clean room” at the factory to ensure that the internal components are clean and free from contaminants. The housing has double seals to help guard against contamination once installed.

Replacement is much easier with the pod-style design. The pod can be exchanged while the drum stays horizontal. Simply remove the old pod and replace it with a new one.

Because of the decreased risk of contamination and the use of synthetic oil, the change interval for the bearing lubrication oil is best-in-class 3 years/3000 hours. Scheduled oil sampling is not necessary.

Optional vibration per minute (VPM) gauge and variable vibration frequency enhance the productivity of the CS44 and CP44 compactors.

Other options include; a two-piece padfoot shell kit for the CS44; polyurethane scrapers on the front and rear of the drum on the smooth drum models; a foot-controlled leveling blade for the CP44 and padfoot shell kit equipped CS44s; bio-oil factory-fill option; a rotating suspension seat and a brake release pump.

Service access is simple and convenient on the CS44 and CP44. The durable one-piece fiberglass hood tilts forward with the aid of two gas charged struts. Once the hood is opened, the engine compartment and cooling package are accessible.

The operator’s station tilts forward to provide access to the hydraulic pumps, hoses and electrical components. A hand-operated hydraulic pump is standard on machines equipped with a cab and optional on machines equipped with a platform. The hydraulic pump operates a hydraulic cylinder to raise and lower either the operator’s platform or cab.

The hydraulic system has an improved test-port block to simplify oil sampling and prevent accidental oil spilling or contamination of the hydraulic system. The CS44 and CP44 come from the factory with a standard fill of Cat HYDO™ Advanced 10 hydraulic oil, which extends the hydraulic system maintenance interval to 3 years/3,000 hours. This is the longest available for this class of machine. Hydraulic pumps and motors common with other Cat equipment make servicing easier for mechanics.

Other features that make servicing these machines simple include leak-resistant O-ring face-seal hydraulic fittings, grouped pressure test ports, S•O•SSM valves and remote grease points. The articulation hitch features sealed-for-life bearings that never need greasing. The steering cylinders feature remote grease fittings to simplify lubrication. The fuel cell, hydraulic tank, engine and cooling system are equipped with Ecology drains, which facilitate easy, environmentally safe draining of the systems.

Hydraulic hoses are held securely in place with polyurethane routing blocks. The blocks separate hoses helping ensure that they do not rub on one another. And when hoses are replaced, the blocks are stackable to provide expansion so new hoses can be secured. All hoses are protected to help reduce damage during trench work or in other confined applications. The hoses for the leveling blade are routed through the front bumper for extra protection.

Nylon-braided wire harnesses protect the 24-volt electrical. All wires are color-coded and numbered to facilitate easy trouble-shooting. Wires are held in place by dedicated clips, and connectors are weather-resistant.

The radiator is rear mounted for easy service and access. The radiator tilts to improve access for cleaning. The cooling system is 25% larger, increasing the cooling capacity. This lowers internal heat, which reduces wear and improves performance in hot environments. Redesign of the engine airflow reduces the formation of dust clouds and prevents hot engine air discharge on the operator’s station.

The CS44 and CP44 have been designed to comply with all applicable regulations regarding emissions, vibrations and noise.

Source:http://deutschland.cat.com/cda/layout?m=68385&x=7

Caterpillar Xuzhou (CXL) invited a group of senior government officials to participate in the 2010 Business Development Strategy Forum on January 28. The event was part of CXL’s ongoing effort to enhance communication and cooperation with the local government through face-to-face discussions.

CXL General Manager Qihua Chen welcomed the guests including the Xuzhou Customs Commissioner, Director of Xuzhou Entry-Exit Inspection and Quarantine Bureau, and Deputy Director of the Xuzhou Economic Development Zone.

Qihua kicked off the forum with a 2009 CXL business review, as well as an introduction to its 2010 development plan. “Thanks to your great support, we successfully weathered the storm in the challenging year of 2009. For 2010, we will have a new building going into operations. With that and continued support from the government, I am quite confident that we will see a business recovery leading to prosperity,” he told the participants.

“CXL is making a great contribution to local economy development,” said Mr Lou, Deputy Director of the Xuzhou Economic Development Zone. He reiterated strong support from the local government to ensure a “favorable development environment” for future growth at CXL.

< P>Source:http://china.cat.com/cda/components/fullArticle?m=63735&x=7&id=2087161

Hitachi Construction Machinery (Europe) NV (HCME) has celebrated the shipment of the 25,000th medium Hitachi Zaxis excavator at its factory in Amsterdam. The milestone machine, a ZX140W-3, represents an impressive achievement for the Japanese construction manufacturer and the largest of its European assembly plants.

To mark the occasion, a special ceremony was held at the factory in January and was attended by guest speakers Hitachi Construction Machinery Co., Ltd. President Mr Kikawa, HCME President Mr Tabei and Managing Director of the official Hitachi dealer in Belgium, Jos Luyckx. All employees at the HCME factory were also invited to the ceremony. Their important role in the manufacturing and sales processes at HCME was highlighted by all three speakers.

To mark the occasion, a special ceremony was held at the factory in January and was attended by guest speakers Hitachi Construction Machinery Co., Ltd. President Mr Kikawa, HCME President Mr Tabei and Managing Director of the official Hitachi dealer in Belgium, Jos Luyckx. All employees at the HCME factory were also invited to the ceremony. Their important role in the manufacturing and sales processes at HCME was highlighted by all three speakers.

DMVH has been a Hitachi customer since 1987. Jos Luyckx explains: “The company ordered four Zaxis crawler excavators following a demonstration, which initially convinced them of the quality of the Hitachi brand.

“Over the years, DMVH has ordered approximately 130 Hitachi machines, of which 72 are still in use today,” he adds. “Its fleet includes crawler excavators from eight to 35 tonnes, wheeled excavators, material handling machines and wheel loaders.”

Established in 1960 by Julien and Fernand Demaecker and Louis van Haecke, DMVH management is now in the hands of both families’ second generations, namely Serge Demaecker, Alain van Haecke and Filip Fossé, husband of Eveline Demaecker. “It was an honour for us to take delivery of the 25,000th machine to be produced at HCME in Amsterdam,” says Alain.

“We continue to buy Hitachi construction machinery because the wide variety of machines – including the standard models and modifications tailored to our specific requirements by Luyckx – is a huge advantage for our company,” he adds. “The after-sales service provided by Luyckx is also one of the main reasons behind our long-standing relationship with the Hitachi brand.”

Source: http://www.hcme.com/en/Our-Company/News/Press-releases/HCME-celebrates-production-milestone

Hitachi excavators will feature engines with cooled exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) and exhaust filters consisting of a diesel oxidation catalyst/diesel particulate filter to meet the 2011 Interim Tier 4 (IT4)/Stage III B emissions regulations mandated by the EPA and EU for diesel engines 174 to 750 hp.

“Hitachi believes this is the simplest IT4 solution. And it continues to deliver the productivity, fuel efficiency, and reliability that customers expect from Hitachi,” said Mark Wall, Product Marketing Manager for Hitachi construction excavators in the Americas.

Hitachi’s approach to meeting IT4 regulations is an evolution of the current clean-burning and fuel-efficient Tier 3/Stage III A Isuzu engine platform currently used in Hitachi excavators.

The Isuzu cooled EGR engine platform for IT4 compliance is less complex to maintain compared to SCR (selective catalytic reduction) systems. “Unlike SCR, this IT4 solution doesn’t require liquid urea to achieve the necessary emissions reduction. There aren’t any other fluids to acquire, fill, and store on jobsites,” Wall said. “EGR requires just one fluid – diesel fuel.”

Many Hitachi excavators featuring Isuzu engines with Tier 3/Stage III A cooled EGR technology are running reliably today, and the Interim Tier 4/Stage III B units will be a natural next step for Hitachi dealers to sell and support. “Hitachi dealers will be ready to service and support these new engines and optimize the overall efficiency of the excavator,” Wall said.

Source: http://www.hitachiconstruction.com/en_US/cfd/construction/hitachi_const/newsroom/2010/100118_it4exc.html