Launched globally towards the end of 2009, Caterpillar's new 120K maintenance grader, which forms part of the upgraded K-Series range now available in South Africa, replaces the successful Cat 120H model and comes to the market with increased operational enhancements and a fuel efficient Cat C7 ACERT engine meeting Tier II emission standards.

An interior perspective of the Cat 120K

"The H-Series has been the industry standard in a variety of heavy construction, road building and governmental applications," explains Barloworld Equipment product manager, Johan Hartman, "and the K-Series continues this tradition, incorporating customer-driven and sustainability enhancements that increase productivity and improve up-time availability."
Key features on the 120K include VHP (Variable Horsepower); electronic throttle control; automatic idle control; increased torque; air-to-air after cooling; improved ease of operation; plus an upgraded dash cluster and monitoring system.
The new Cat 120K now also has a greater base weight of 12 700kg compared to the 120H's 11 358kg, with the VHP range also rising from 93/104 kW to 93/108 kW. The standard blade length remains the same at 3,7 m.
As on the H-Series machines, the 120K is equipped with Cat's renowned Power Shift transmission featuring direct drive and electronic control for smooth, powerful shifts at any speed; while proportional hydraulic flow provides outstanding ‘feel' and predictable movements.
"From an operational perspective, direct drive delivers superior fuel efficiency and better feel of blade loads, material hardness and ground speed," Hartman continues.
Maintenance cost savings on the K-Series are achieved through innovative engineering, a prime example being the 120K's oil-bathed, air-actuated and spring-released brakes. Located at each tandem wheel, the design eliminates braking loads on the power train plus reducing servicing time. Additionally, the large brake surface provides dependable braking capability and extended life before rebuild.
Adds Hartman: "Further helping to maximise uptime, Cat's sealed spindle keeps the bearings free from contaminants and lubricated in a lightweight oil. Two tapered roller bearings support the wheel spindle, with the larger tapered roller bearing placed outboard where the load is greater, thereby extending bearing life and adding to the overall high availability owners can expect from the Cat 120K."
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