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CONSTRUCTION WORLD
MARCH
2014
“Caterpillar’s
primary
design
goal on the B-Series is to enable
contractors to achieve even more
efficient compaction,” explains
Barloworld Equipment paving product
manager, Johan Hartman, “with multiple
vibration frequencies plus ballast options
on specific models to provide best-in-class
versatility on varied job sites in either gran-
ular or asphalt applications.”
Popular B-Series units for the Southern
African market include the CB14B, CB24B
and CB34B models. The vibratory system
on these units provides a good balance
between frequency and amplitude to meet
diverse asphalt pavement applications that
include urban streets, paths, parking lots,
driveways, patching and shoulder work.
The CB14B has a default high frequency
of 70 Hz; whilst the CB24B has three
frequency selections, namely high (63 Hz),
middle (52 Hz) and low (42 Hz). The CB34B in
turn has a high and low frequency selection
mode of 55 Hz and 48 Hz.
Standard operating weights for the
CB14B, CB24B and CB34B are 1 520 kg (with
a 1 000 mm drum), 2 723 kg (1 200 mm drum)
and 3 699 kg (1 300 mm drum) respectively.
Mid range extra weight machine options
are also available, examples being the
Cat CB24B XT and CB34B XW (with wider
1 400 mm drum width). Optional ballast
configurations include the Cat
CB34B and CB34 XW models,
which provide the flexibility
to add and remove weight
on the drums, as required,
for varied compaction requirements. Vibra-
tory selection on most models includes front
drum only, rear or both drums.
Each drum is fitted with front and rear
scrapers that are spring-loaded, retractable
and self-adjusting. On the go, the dual-drum
drive powertrain provides continuous full-
drum traction on soft base materials, uneven
surfaces and steeper grades. Meanwhile, the
rounded drum edge prevents cutting into
the mat. For final finishing, Caterpillar also
fields two combi rollers, the Cat CC24B and
CC34B, both of which come standard with
rear pneumatic tyres and a front vibratory
drum roller.
“Pneumatic tyres provide a kneading
action for a tight mat finish, creating high
ground pressure that penetrates deep into
the lift,” Hartman continues.
A distinctive feature on the new B-Series
is their excellent drum-edge visibility due to
the sloped hood, longitudinal engine mount
and narrow frame design, which improves
control for better coverage and compac-
tion results. A maximum 50 mm drum offset
feature enhances control near curbs and
obstacles while providing more coverage.
Engine power on demand provides the
push needed on grades, with units driven by
either a Cat C1,5 or Cat C2,2 unit depending
on themachine size. (The exception is the Cat
CB14B, which is fitted with a Kohler engine.)
These Cat engines are equipped
with multiple speed settings
and Eco-mode, which when
EQUIPMENT
VERSATILITY AND MOBILITY
Launched globally from the fourth quarter of 2013,
Caterpillar’s new B-Series utility compactor line-up builds
on the success of the previous generation and comes to
market in a nine model line-up to compete in the 1,8 mt
to 5 mt size class. B-Series units are manufactured at
Caterpillar’s Rantigny production facility in France.
The Cat CB24B XT has a
1 200 mm drum width and a
standard machine operating
weight of 3 301 kg. The weight
at the front and rear drum
are 1 496 kg and 1 627 kg,
respectively.
INSET:
a close-
up view of the extra weight
set-up on the drum roller.
selected delivers improved fuel efficiency
and lower sound levels. Well-match for
Southern Africa’s climate, the engine cooling
package has an ambient capability of 49°C at
80% load.
“Fast travel speeds ensure excellent
mobility,” says Hartman. “Additionally, the
speed remains constant on grades, with
smooth propel lever control at all speeds.”
The vibratory drum deactivates auto-
matically when the propel lever is in
the neutral position, while the exclusive
eccentric weight shaft delivers quick starts
and stops.
The B-Series comes to market with a
best-in-class water spray system. The large
capacity water tank provides up to 12 hours
of operation between refills and is equipped
with a low level indicator for added conveni-
ence. Triple filtration delivers reliable perfor-
mance and simplifies service.
Intermittent and continuous spray
modes enable the operator to adjust the
water flow to match site conditions, with the
spray bars tucked under the frame for good
wind protection.
Adds Hartman: “Along with achieving the
right densities targets, preventing asphalt
pickup is the key to keeping a fresh mat in
place and in these and other areas, the B-Se-
ries sets new paving standards.”
From left: Johan Hartman paving product manager
Barloworld Equipment and Matt Rowe Caterpillar Global
Paving territory manager, Johannesburg.
A side-by-side comparison showing a Cat CB24B
and CB34B utility compactor.
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