For release in Australia, Europe, New Zealand, North America, South America: March 2015
Release Number: 40PR15
The new Cat® MH3037 is the first in a series of the new wheeled material handler line that Caterpillar is introducing in the greater than 25-metric ton size class. The new material handlers are purpose-built from the ground up to work productively and durably in industrial, scrap recycling, millyard and waterway applications, while affording maximum protection and convenience for the operator. The patented Cat ground-level-entry/exit design features a step-in cab that lowers to the front or the side of the machine to enhance convenience and safety for operators and service personnel.
The MH3037 has an operating weight of 39 500 kg (87,083 lb.) and is powered by a Cat C7.1 ACERT™ engine that meets US EPA Tier 4 Final/EU Stage IV emission standards. The engine features an electronically controlled, mechanically actuated, unit-injector fuel system that uses multiple-injection fuel delivery for optimum power and economy in all operating situations. The MH3037 configuration is rated at 225 horsepower (168 kW).
High-strength structural steel and advanced welding techniques ensure structural integrity. A powerful hydraulic system provides rapid response with efficiency, and new serviceability features simplify maintenance. These design elements combine to provide low-cost operation and maximum value for MH3037 owners.
Structures and hydraulics
Major structures use continuous welds that incorporate extensive chamfering and beveling to reduce stress concentration. Booms and sticks are constructed from single-piece top and side plates to eliminate the need for seams and internal baffles. The upper frame is designed specifically to dissipate loads transferred through the front linkage and counterweight, and the lower frame has a unique tapered design for evenly distributing loads and reducing stress. Oversized pins and bushings strengthen pivot points. In addition, extensive finite element analysis and strain-gauge testing throughout the design process help ensure long term durability. Along with an 8.8-m (29 ft.) boom, the MH3037 can be equipped with a short 5.8 m (19 ft.) version or a longer 7.2 m (23.5 ft.) front configuration to best fit the application.
The MH3037 uses a closed-center, one-pump, load-sensing implement hydraulic system with electro-hydraulic pilot control. The hydraulic pump generates only as much oil flow and pressure as required for the application, yielding powerful, rapid response and fuel-saving efficiency. To further enhance overall hydraulic power and efficiency, the machine regenerates boom-down oil flow, reducing the volume of oil the pump must produce.
Reflecting the precise hydraulic design, the MH3037 divides hydraulic functions between the upper and lower main control valves, with the upper valve managing the boom, stick, work tools, cab riser and cooling circuits, and the lower valve controlling travel, steering and outriggers. This design provides optimal flow management that allows multiple, simultaneous machine functions without compromising performance. An independent, closed-loop, hydraulic swing system maintains swing priority at all times.
The hydraulic oil cooler, engine air-to-air aftercooler (ATAAC), and engine radiator are all mounted side-by-side to reduce clogging caused by airborne debris and to provide better access for cleaning when necessary. The auto-reversing fan used in the hydraulic cooling system ensures that optimum temperatures between 54°C and 60°C (130°F-140°F) are maintained, protecting oil quality, extending component life and promoting optimum machine performance.
The powertrain of the MH3037 incorporates limited-slip differentials on both the front and rear axles to provide true all-wheel-drive performance. A variable displacement hydraulic motor, coupled with a two-speed transmission, provides high- and low-speed travel and creeper-speed capability. An oscillating rear axle with an oscillation lock provides the capability to work on-rubber in rough, uneven terrain, maintaining stability without stabilizers deployed.
Operator safety and convenience
The hydraulic cab-riser system allows cab height to be adjusted up to an eye level of 5.5 m (18 ft.). Raise time from ground level to maximum height is approximately 8 seconds; lowering time from maximum height to ground level is 10 seconds. Adjustable sensors control the height of the cab above the ground, and manual override valves in the cab and at ground level allow the cab to be lowered in the event of engine power loss, ensuring that the operator can exit safely at ground level.
The MH3037 can be equipped with an optional impact-absorbing, falling-objects guarding system (FOGS). This includes a top guard to protect the operator from falling debris and a front guard to protect from flying debris in the work area. An adjustable, close-proximity stick limiter reduces the risk of work tool contact with the cab, and load-holding valves on hydraulic cylinders prevent sudden uncontrolled drop of the boom, stick, cab, or stabilizers in the event of a failed hydraulic hose. The cab also includes a polycarbonate skylight, removable panels, and a rear window that serves as an emergency exit.
Images from the standard rearview camera are displayed via a high-definition color monitor. A separate monitor displays operating parameters, starting fluid levels, machine warnings, and activated work functions. The system allows operators to set functions according to preference and provides maintenance reminders, diagnostic capabilities, and out-of-specification alerts.
Work functions are conveniently controlled with joysticks, as is steering control. Using joystick controls in lieu of a steering wheel enables operators to experience smoother, faster production and creates better sight lines to the work area.
Serviceability and work tools
Durable fiberglass gull-wing panels supported by gas-filled cylinders provide ready access to routine maintenance points in spacious, lighted compartments. Service panels are located on the top, left, and right side of the machine. Handrails and anti-slip surfaces help technicians perform their work safely and efficiently.
Greaseless bearings in the cab-riser linkage reduce maintenance, and an upper auto-lube system lubricates critical areas based on runtime. The machine is set at the factory to dispense grease every 15 minutes of machine use. The lower is manually lubricated from a central grease point located behind the lower control valve on the carbody frame.
To assist customers in improving jobsite efficiency, lowering owning and operating costs and managing the MH3037 for optimum return on investment, Cat Connect offers LINK and DETECT technologies. Product Link™ allows fleet owners to wirelessly track machine location, hours, fuel consumption, idle time, events codes, and diagnostic codes via the online VisionLink® user interface. A rear vision camera greatly enhances job site visibility to help the operator work more productively.
The MH3037 can handle a variety of work tools. The machine features medium-pressure flow from a separate valve for tool rotation and a high-pressure circuit from the main pump to operate the open/close functions of typical tools, such as orange-peel grapples, clamshells, and log grapples. A separate pump is used to provide hydraulic power for operating an available scrap-magnet generator. The generator features a patented Cat solid-state magnet controller that eliminates typical maintenance issues and is supported and warranted through Cat dealers.
