Plant Equipment and Hire April 2019 | Page 21

CASE Construction PRODUCT FOCUS CASE 885B series motor graders — available locally from CASE Construction SA — have the latest technological and design features for improved performance and enhanced productivity. The transmission control unit (TCU) manages all the input of data provided when the transmission is operating and ensures optimum performance, extended service life of the machine, and improved operator comfort. “The TCU is a pre-set unit that is programmed with the parameters of the transmission at the factory; it will detect speed and control transmission gear shifts, for example. There is no operator intervention in this,” says Collard. The transmission also has a diagnostic system that detects potential problems and displays them as error codes on the panel or via a laptop connection. Collard adds, “The diagnostic codes will be generated when any problem is detected in the transmission; these are displayed by way of a dedicated code for the technician to identify and act on the problem. The codes range from simple filter restrictions to operational problems like overheating.” torque and is therefore ideal for levelling and spreading. When lock-up is disengaged by the operator at the push of a button, the transmission reverts to working with the torque converter. Lock-up engages automatically to match torque and engine speed — as long as the pre-set electronic transmission module parameters are met. Improved traction CASE 885B series grader axles have been designed for improved traction on the ground. The front axle has a welded steel structure with high-resistance cast iron components. The straight- line geometry offers 580mm ground clearance over the machine’s entire length. The wheel lean angle is 12 degrees to the right or left, with up to 15 degrees of oscillation to be able to cope efficiently on irregular terrains. The cast iron tandem type rear axle has a welded steel plate structure that enables safe operation in difficult conditions. Tandem oscillation is 20 degrees to each side. Precision of movement The hydraulic system of this series is designed for complete precision of movement and blade control. When ground resistance is high and the hydraulic system pressure needs to The CASE de-clutch system, which is activated when the operator applies the brakes, improves handling speeds for tools, including the blade, ripper, and scarifier. This de-clutch system directs all engine power to the hydraulic system from the moment that the engine is disengaged from the transmission. As a result, loss of power during operation is prevented and fuel economy is improved. Another advantage of this transmission system is the option of operating in automatic or manual mode. The operator is able to manually shift gear or opt for automatic control — with manual mode generally selected when fine grading is done or more power is required to do the job at hand. www.plantonline.co.za The de-clutch system Enhancements to this range include the flexibility of a torque converter lock-up system for efficient transmission, a roll-away mouldboard plough for lower fuel consumption, and a redesigned cab, with a larger field of vision for enhanced safety and greater operator comfort. APRIL 2019 19