The worldwide introduction of the Cat 6015B sets a new research and development (R&D) milestone for Caterpillar as it targets strong gains in the highly-competitive 100 t plus hydraulic mining shovel (HMS) class.
Significantly, the Cat 6015B marks the transition point between Caterpillar’s largest ‘construction’ class hydraulic excavator, the Cat 390F L (with its approximately 86 275 kg operating weight), and the 140 000 t 6015B backhoe, which is the new entry level unit for the current Cat HMS range. A comparison of their respective payload capabilities provides a clear distinction in terms of their downstream roles: 9,6 t for the Cat 390F L and 14,6 t for the Cat 6015B.
The standard track pads on the Cat 6015B are 700 mm in diameter and the machine has a ground bearing pressure of 16,3 N/cm².
“The 6015B backhoe is the next benchmark in terms of ergonomics and performance, with the most powerful engine in its class (606 kW) plus one of the largest standard Heavy Duty bucket offerings (8,1m³),” explains Wouter Kraan, senior product manager: mining shovels at Barloworld Equipment.
This class-winning combination results in a one-pass-better match per cycle advantage with Cat 773, 775, and 777 sized rigid off-highway mining trucks over leading competitors with equivalent sized load and haul combinations. When consistently achieved, the result is more material moved and greater profit. All 6015B structures have been fully tested and validated at Caterpillar’s proving ground in Tuscon, Arizona.
The 6015B comes to market with two engine options for ‘lesser regulated emissions’ standard countries, namely a Cat C27 ACERT Tier I or Tier II power plant. The Cat 6015B is also the only EPA Tier 4 Final compliant machine in its class, meeting legislative requirements in Canada and the United States.
The previous generation Cat 6015FS (Face Shovel) model will continue to be sold in diesel configuration for a limited period. However, the backhoe derivative remains by far the most popular customer choice for the southern African region.
On the Cat 6015B, lower ownership costs are driven through proprietary integrated Cat engine control technologies (for efficient fuel burn and power distribution), closed-loop swing and boom float valves and a new hydraulic filtration system. A separate kidney loop ensures continuous filtration and optimum oil cleanliness at all times, minimising the risk of progressive hydraulic power losses due to contamination.
Commonality of components forms a key part of Caterpillar’s R&D strategy from life-cycle costing and maintenance perspectives. On the Cat 6015B, for example, these components include Cat D11 track links (with Positive Pin Retention). Further efficiencies are achieved with Cat C70 hammerless GET designed specifically for the Cat 6015B. “In designing this GET system, Caterpillar took a production rather than a component focus to optimise performance across the entire machine,” Kraan expands.
This is also a safe machine. The Cat 6015B provides updated egress and walkways for safe movement, improved wire and hose guarding for safe maintenance, numerous and optimally positioned lights, mirrors, and E (emergency)-stop buttons, and an optional 45o powered access stairway for easy boarding and egress. The unit comes standard with connectivity to onboard Cat Connect technologies like MineStar™, VIMS™ (Vital Information Management System), and Product Link™.
First shipment orders of the new Cat 6015B started leaving Caterpillar’s manufacturing facilities for worldwide delivery from March this year.
“Extensive pilot testing has resulted in a machine that has been proven to move more material at a lower cost, when compared to other similar offerings in its class. This means customers have the assurance that they can achieve production targets, meet deadlines, and maximize their profitability,” adds Kraan, “with a measurable return on their investment.”