Imperial — like a spartan going into battle. That’s how Wake Forest, NC-based Imperial Contracting approaches every job. The company – founded on the principle of tackling the tough jobs that other contractors can’t or don’t want to do – has mastered its craft.

“We are the contractor everybody calls when either somebody can’t do it, isn’t able to do it, or doesn’t want to do it. We say, get out of the way and we’ll make it happen. It falls back to just wanting to be better than the next guy.”

says Justin Santoro, owner, Imperial Contracting.

“We strive to be the best at every level of our company. We are built on the ability of my men, and the right equipment to do the job. Our work and the appearance of our equipment are the two things that make us who we are.”

he adds.

The contractor specializes in the construction and conversion of retention ponds in residential and commercial developments around North Carolina.

“Our work depends on the design of the engineer for the subdivision and how many ponds he/she allocated and fit in. All the water work comes to us, and everything that goes down the storm drain comes to us as well. We get everything from kids’ basketballs to copperhead snakes to snapping turtles, to just regular old mud and trash. The environment itself is a big challenge because literally, everything’s at the bottom.”

he jokes.

Naming and Owning Success

Santoro takes a fresh look at how he deploys his team and equipment into the field — equipment assignments are merit-based and each operator is expected to take care of the machine as if they own it themselves. And each machine has a name.

“Nothing has a relationship as a number. A relationship comes out of a name and knowing about it. You respect it. You name your equipment. It’s a living, breathing machine. Once you get inside it, you make it happen. It’s your control, everything that machine does. It needs to have a name.”

says Santoro.

He’s refined his fleet through the years and optimized it for working in residential areas – small enough to be easily transported to the site, and big enough to get the heavy work done. A typical equipment outlay on a job site looks like this:

• A CASE CX210D excavator brought in to do the primary bulk earthmoving and mucking out.
• A CASE 750M low ground pressure (LGP) dozer outfitted with machine control for final/finish grading.
• A CASE 160D excavator outfitted with machine control and a tilting/rotational bucket for perfecting the slope and final grade of each pond. The bucket is oversized at 60 inches, but operators only use this machine for fine grading and contouring.
• The machine control systems incorporated into each of the machines are indicate-only – Santoro relies on the experience of his operators and the precision of the equipment matched with the site plan to get each grade down to 1/10th of an inch to plan.

The CASE CX160D is a 112-horsepower excavator designed to be both powerful and responsive. Imperial operators are able to precision grade on slopes and down into the corners of the ponds, and other places that make it difficult for the dozer to get to. It also affords the company the ability to continue working in even the wettest conditions as Imperial can use the CX160D to grade the entire pond if needed.

“Really, 160 is a great machine. From the (previous model) to the D, it’s evolved into an even better excavator, with more comfort, more things that you really want every day. When you spend 10 to 12 hours a day in a machine, comfort, visibility, and ease of use are all very important. The 160 offers all of that and more.”

Santoro notes.

One additional advantage the CX160D gives the Imperial team is its precision. Each D Series excavator features an electronically controlled pump, a large control valve, and multiple sensors that combine with the CASE Intelligent Hydraulic System to make the best use of the machine’s hydraulic power and momentum — resulting in added strength, precision, and fuel efficiency.

“They’re amazing. They’re very comfortable and offer very smooth control. It doesn’t have a lot of stick-pull, it doesn’t delay, and it has great maneuverability. The speed is perfect which makes it easier for our operators to grade very precisely when they need to.”

says Santoro.

As for the dozer, the 750M features an advanced load management system, large hydraulic pumps, and motors — Imperial’s operators love the strength and the agility of the machines.

“It has the power we need to run dirt from the filling process to the finish grading. It is one of the most versatile machines in our fleet, actually one of the most versatile machines periods. The right power with the right weight, with the right ability to get the job done.”

says Santoro.

The low ground pressure design also comes in handy when working in soil conditions that are often reflective of being at the lowest point in development.

“The LGP holds better with the soft materials that we experience a lot of. It’s versatile on the slopes. You get better traction when walking big slopes and trying to grade them. It just has a better ground pressure ability for us.”

Santoro says.

In addition to the power and versatility, CASE also took operator comfort and line-of-sight into consideration when developing the dozer. Its cab has floor-to-ceiling glass doors providing maximum visibility to the blade and out ahead of the machine. It also features a pressurized cab and advanced sealing that makes the cab extremely quiet with a decibel rating of 75 dBa. The combination of performance and ease-of-use works well for Santoro.

“The 750 has the ability to go from precision work to bulk work and between. It just adapts right to it.”

says Santoro.

Dealer Support helps Imperial Conquer All

Relationships built over time, forged in a collaborative approach to getting the best result for all involved have long been the approach of Carolinas-based Hills Machinery. Santoro and the Imperial team have appreciated that as the company has grown, and Hills has played a major role in why Imperial continues to choose CASE for its fleet.

“It matters to know somebody cares. Knowing they’re there for you when you need them makes a big difference. And then, when you’re thinking, I got to buy a new machine, it is easy to turn to the guys who take care of you. That’s Hills in a nutshell.”

Santoro says.

As for service and uptime, Imperial relies heavily on Hills and takes full advantage of CASE ProCare. ProCare is a comprehensive machine support offering that comes standard on all new CASE heavy equipment — protecting it for up to three years and keeping owning and operating costs predictable.

“ProCare is huge for us. When we look at the overall cost of a machine and then the cost of the upkeep for the first three years, in those first three, we’re not responsible for any services or oil changes. On top of that, Hills is going through our machines, making sure there are no issues. It’s a great add-on and it doesn’t come with an extra price tag. It more than pays for itself in the first three years.”

Santoro notes.

“I have been around CASE equipment a long, long, long time. It proved itself on the farm that I grew up on. All the tractors we ran then were CASE. The dozer we had was a CASE. It proved itself very able to do everything that we’re looking for. I’ve never had a bad experience with CASE equipment, and we have excavators that have 6,000 and 7,000 hours on them.”

Santoro concludes, thinking back to when he first operated equipment as a young man.

All-in-all, Santoro believes he has equipped his team to succeed. With pride, a sense of ownership, and equipment support and design that matches his own drive and tenacity, Imperial will continue to make its mark in the Carolinas.

“Imperial, I believe, means you never surrender, and you never quit. We don’t quit. We work seven days a week and we get the job done right every time.”

Source: Case CE

The post Imperial Contracting Uses Case CE Items appeared first on North America FarmQuip Magazine.

The webcast is hosted by George MacIntyre, product manager; and Richie Snyder, marketing manager for digital and precision solutions/telematics at CASE. Five participants will win a CASE swag package, and all registrants will receive a recording of the webcast via email.

MacIntyre says:

“The skid steer or compact track loader is often the first major equipment investment that a landscaping contractor makes. That investment has a base cost, but the profitability of the machine and how much return on investment that contractor realizes can be affected by how they operate, equip, and maintain that machine. In this webcast, we will discuss new features available to landscape contractors, ways to outfit their machines for optimal return on investment, and how easily precision construction technologies such as the laser grading box can positively impact their day-to-day work.”

Source: Case CE

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The power and performance of the 580 EV is equivalent to other diesel-powered backhoes in the Case product line and provides considerably lower daily operating costs while also producing zero emissions — a motivating factor for utility and government contractors incentivized to work with equipment that leverages alternative fuels and lowers emissions.

City governments and municipalities will also benefit from the elimination of emissions for working in urban environments and close to other buildings/people, as well as the reduced noise generated by the equipment.

Two units have already been sold to utilities in the United States — NYSEG and RG&E, AVANGRID companies, and National Grid. Case has the capability to produce additional units throughout 2020 before ramping up production to meet greater demand in following years.

“Case built the very first factory-integrated backhoe loader in 1957 and has been at the forefront of backhoe innovation. The 580 EV is a significant step forward in our commitment to sustainability, the evolution of earthmoving equipment and truly practical innovation that drives real savings and competitive advantages for backhoe owners.”

says Leandro Lecheta, head of construction equipment — North America, CNH Industrial.

“The backhoe loader is perfectly suited for electrification as the varied use cycles, from heavy to light work, provide an excellent opportunity to convert wasted diesel engine hours into zero consumption battery time — yet provide the operator with instantaneous torque response when needed. At low idle a diesel engine has reduced torque and requires time for the engine to ramp up to meet the load demands. Electric motors, on the other hand, have instantaneous torque and peak torque available at every operating speed.”

says Eric Zieser, director — global compact equipment product line, Case.

The 580 EV is the second major alternative-powered machine introduced by Case — the manufacturer rolled out the FPT Industrial methane-powered concept wheel loader ProjectTETRA at Bauma 2019. Electrification was performed in conjunction with Green machine and Moog and with direct input from utilities and other businesses focused on converting significant portions of their fleets to fully electric backhoes. Case also partnered with Michelin to outfit the first-of-its-kind machine with specialized Michelin CrossGrip tires for even greater efficiency and handling.

Electrification Ideal for Utilities, Urban Environments

The 580 EV is powered by a 480-volt, 90-kilowatt-hour lithium-ion battery pack that can be charged by any 220-volt/three-phase connection. While applications will vary, each charge will support most common eight-hour workdays. The battery separately powers the drivetrain and hydraulic motors, resulting in hydraulic breakout forces equal to diesel-powered machines and improved performance during simultaneous loader and drivetrain operation.

Utilities, utility contractors, as well as government and public works operations, are well suited for the 580 EV as they generally have initiatives aimed at lowering emissions, reducing noise in public workspaces, and finding new ways to work within budgets. Contractors who bid work in states where even greater regulations are in place — such as New York, California and Florida — may also benefit from deploying electric backhoes in their fleet. Many contractors in these sectors either road or trailer these machines back to a central shop or yard at the end of the day, making it easy to plug into existing electrical infrastructure, or to develop charging stations in a controlled yard. Utilities who operate their own backhoe fleets can power each machine off of the electricity they generate, essentially operating the machine at cost.

Sustainable for Budgets and the Environment

The 580 EV operates with zero emissions — lowering the total carbon footprint for its owners. These are important environmental considerations, but the new backhoe also helps improve fiscal sustainability.

• While every application will be different based on its workload, it is estimated that the 580 EV could save fleets as much as 90 percent in annual vehicle service and maintenance costs when taking into account the reduction/elimination of diesel, engine oil, diesel exhaust fluid, regular preventive maintenance and long-term engine upkeep/maintenance (and the associated labor rates and time savings).
• Some utilities and contractors are incentivized to deploy electric equipment and vehicles in their fleets, providing even greater financial benefit and further lowering the total cost of ownership.
• Operating electric construction equipment may make contractors eligible for work they may have otherwise been unable to bid on, expanding their business opportunities and allowing them to win more work each year.
• While the 580 EV will be sold at a higher initial price than diesel-powered backhoe loaders, it is estimated that average fleets will see a payback on that premium in roughly five years. All savings achieved after that will go to improve the bottom line and continue to lower the operation’s carbon footprint.

Each 580 EV comes standard with Case SiteWatch telematics for additional monitoring and management of machine performance and utilization.

Historic Case Backhoe Performance — Improved Operating Environment

While the new 580 EV is electrified, it retains many of the hallmark features that contractors expect from Case backhoe loaders. It retains the precision and efficiency of diesel-powered Case backhoes with features such as ProControl, which allows for extremely precise boom movement and placement, as well as Comfort Steer, which significantly improves steering while working in tight quarters or in truck loading operations. The machine’s cab is spacious with large windows that provide excellent sightlines to all sides of the machine. It also features the new and enhanced joystick controls found in the most recent generation of Case N Series backhoes, as well as in-cab amenities such as premium seat options and Bluetooth radio.

All of this is achieved with a machine that significantly improves the working environment for the operator and laborers alike, as it runs with zero emissions, and significantly lowers sound levels on the jobsite for improved communication between the operator and staff on the ground.

“The 580 EV performs like a Case backhoe — matching the power and performance expected from CASE with the advantages of an electrified machine. Operators will experience the same digging, lifting and craning performance achieved in a diesel-powered machine in a quieter, emissions-free work area. That’s the ultimate goal of our sustainability efforts — improve the world around us, make equipment more sustainable, and to do so while finding new ways to improve productivity and the experience of the people who use the equipment.”

says Zieser.

Adding Power and Ease to the Ride

Case has partnered with Michelin on tires for two of its alternative-powered equipment solutions — the methane-powered ProjectTETRA wheel loader, and now the 580 EV backhoe loader. The 580 EV backhoe loader showcased at CONEXPO-CON/AGG 2020 includes Michelin CrossGrip tires that feature a non-directional tread design and provide exceptional handling, comfort and high-load capacity for operation on a variety of surface conditions from asphalt to snow.

“The Michelin CrossGrip tires are great for general use with construction equipment, and offer great handling and reduced rolling resistance. Whether under full load or roading to a jobsite, these tires will provide the optimal match of power and efficiency for an electric vehicle.”

The new Michelin CrossGrip is a multi-purpose radial tire designed for use on the road, grass and snow. Using a special rubber compound, this four-season tire is designed for high-load-capacity use on loaders, backhoes, telehandlers and tractors. The tire has a patented, non-directional tread for excellent handling in both forward and reverse gears. With 196 tread blocks per wheel rotation, the tire achieves driver comfort by reducing vibration. Asymmetrical lateral blocks help to provide good traction in winter conditions when short starting and stopping distances are imperative for safety. Reinforced for excellent puncture resistance, CrossGrip is designed to offer increased productivity and can be studded for ice usage.

“We designed the CrossGrip tire for year-round use — and backhoe loaders responding to utility or municipal demands require that level of availability and performance. Its unique design provides excellent reliability and traction, helping the industry’s first fully electric backhoe loader road and operate even more effectively in all conditions. We are proud to outfit a first-of-its-kind machine with the first CrossGrip backhoe tires — showcasing two great new technologies for the construction industry.”

says Justin Brock, senior marketing manager, Michelin North America.

The Future of Electric

The 580 EV is the first formal entry into the electric equipment market for Case. The manufacturer, in partnership with FPT Industrial, continues to explore additional solutions in electrification, alternative fuels and alternative propulsion systems for equipment across all product lines and industries that help achieve sustainability for all in the construction industry without sacrificing power and performance. These solutions will be introduced and brought to market as industry demand requires.

“We’re proving the viability of electrification at the larger end of the compact and light equipment spectrum,” says Zieser. “Our goal now is to further expand electrification and alternative propulsion into other product lines and markets that will also see the benefits from these advances related to sustainability and performance.”

Source: Case Construction Equipment

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• DataConnect: The data interface project recently announced by CLAAS, John Deere and 365FarmNet to enable mixed-fleet users to enable the exchange of machine data now includes Case IH, STEYR and New Holland brands; and
• DKE Agrirouter: CNH Industrial will join this universal data transfer hub, that currently includes 17 OEM brands and more than 30 digital service providers, to enable customers to exchange task data between brands.

The post CNH Industrial brings Mixed-Fleet Connectivity appeared first on North America FarmQuip Magazine.

The project, code named TETRA, shows how professional construction operators could help spearhead the move away from fossil fuel-powered vehicles toward renewable sources by playing a fundamental role in the “closed loop” virtuous cycle, which sees methane-powered wheel loaders help produce the fuel from waste products and renewable sources, which ultimately powers them. And although this is a concept, CASE, a global construction brand of CNH Industrial N.V., is already working towards ultimate market viability.

This concept re-imagines wheel loader design, and is a clear departure from anything seen in construction equipment to date. This methane-powered wheel loader concept reflects the increasing importance of alternative fuels, and demonstrates their viability in construction equipment, as well as the feasibility of creating and using fuel generated from waste products and renewable sources.

Furthermore, CASE has proactively combined alternative fuels and advanced construction technology to create a modern, sustainable solution to the need for ‘future proof’ power, utilizing readily available and proven powertrain technology. “Practical Innovation” is inherent in the brand’s product development philosophy, to innovate through the pragmatic use of advanced technology. As a result, this concept is more than a mere exercise in design, and it has been tested in real-world construction environments to demonstrate its feasibility.

A Full Day’s Autonomy

The new methane-powered wheel loader concept represents a significant technological advance for CASE, being the brand’s first alternative fuel vehicle. This projects benefits from the existing research and development program of sister brand New Holland Agriculture, in off-road methane usage, with over seven years of experience and an extensive global testing program.

The CASE concept uses an FPT Industrial six-cylinder methane engine that has been specifically developed for construction applications and delivers maximum power of 230 hp – identical to the equivalent diesel power plant  –  and torque up to 1,184 Nm. This is achieved with a 50% reduction in drive-by noise levels, which makes it suited for municipal applications and when working in close proximity to offices, residential areas and people. The engine also offers the same reliability and durability and fuel savings up to 30%. It  runs on compressed natural gas (CNG), ensuring 15% less CO2 and 99% less particulate matter than its diesel-based counterpart.

The engine features stoichiometric combustion technology, developed by FPT Industrial and first introduced in 1995. It ensures the correct chemical balance between air and methane in every working condition, delivering clean combustion and low emissions. The technology is applied across the entire natural gas engine portfolio as it enables comparative performance to diesel engines, while delivering ultra-low emissions and high efficiency.

The loader is able to complete the full range of tasks that a standard diesel-powered wheel loader would undertake. From efficient work in quarries, waste handling facilities, agricultural applications, and wood yards through to municipal applications, and those which require extensive transport, this concept machine delivers optimal performance in a productive and sustainable package. Furthermore, it is compatible with the complete range of buckets, and was fitted with high tip and quarry versions from Leonardi Benne during the initial testing activities.

To make efficient use of space, the loader’s fuel is stored within technologically advanced tanks within a sleek and integrated storage unit fitted at the rear and sides of the wheel loader. This configuration enables a full day of autonomy. The wheel loader is as easy to refuel as one powered conventionally by diesel, using a single nozzle, from ground level, and with comparable filling time.

Due to the reduction in polluting emissions arising from methane combustion, a simplified aftertreatment system is used, which features a maintenance-free single standard catalytic converter.

Power Choices

Biomethane is produced using a cyclical system that delivers CO₂ neutral production. It particularly suits wheel loader applications, especially those employed in waste handling situations or on farms, as they handle the raw materials which are used to produce the biomethane which fuels them. This enables these businesses not only to be fuel sufficient, but also energy sufficient, as biomethane can be burned to generate electricity to power buildings, as well as to satisfy any heating requirements. In addition, it can be fed into the gas grid for domestic purposes, and can be used to create electricity to be fed into the national grid to power communities, creating a truly virtuous cycle.

For operations that do not have the resources to produce their own biomethane, the methane-powered wheel loader concept can be powered by conventional network natural gas. This is of particular interest to waste handling facilities and to urban and suburban operations, which have ready access to the natural gas grid. These facilities, with a moderate investment, can install an on-site compression system, which extracts natural gas from the grid, and subsequently compresses it to fuel-grade pressure, providing instant and constant refueling. This infrastructure can be further leveraged by these businesses, as eventual gas powered trucks transporting goods to and from the sites could also be fueled using this technology, further enhancing the sustainable profile of the operation.

Innovative, Productivity-focused Design

CNH Industrial’s international design team have re-imagined wheel loader styling, starting from a blank sheet to create a viable vision for the future of wheel loader design. Iconic CASE styling cues provided inspiration: the‘Old Abe’ eagle has been distilled in the rear engine cover. Key design features accentuate the overall styling and include a forward cab stance; high-visibility 360° glazing, 16% more than a standard wheel loader; a high-visibility roof panel, which provides the operator with an unfettered view of the bucket throughout the entire loading arc; and an industry-first sliding door.

The dynamic air intakes in the engine cover and downward mounted exhaust provide an “aggressive’ stance.” Overall design unity is achieved through a carefully conceived design language which sees the loader arms, fenders, cab, rear wings, engine cover and counterweight melded into a unified whole.

A complete LED lighting package features signature lighting, with lights integrated into the loader arms, front fenders, front- and rear-mounted roof work lights, rear lights integrated into the rear fenders and engine cover, and stop and hazard lights nestling in the rear counterweight. Operators can select auto mode, in which all working lights are automatically activated in low ambient light conditions, or manual operation, in which they select the required lights. Ambient power-tan cab lighting can also be selected.

A range of technologically advanced materials have been used to improve the operator environment to enhance comfort, reduce fatigue and facilitate cleaning. The cab has been trimmed in a robust cream-colored technical cloth, which can be easily wiped down for swift cleaning. This is paired with a chestnut color leather on key touch points. The durable stone floor reinforces the objective to deliver practical design, and the feature aluminum kick plate and floor inlay elevate the interior. This is combined with soft touch aluminum grab handles and carbon fiber fenders to complete the modern look.

A custom metallic fleck CASE ‘power-tan’ paint finish was commissioned for the concept model, and subtly enhances the machines distinctive lines, while cementing its link to the CASE family. The powdered anthracite finish on the metal exterior elements offers enhanced weather- and dirt-proof properties. Traditional CASE elements such as the new Power-Abe eagle emblem have been integrated into the engine cover, loader arm supports and the CASE name has been inlayed into the top step and loader arms.

The minimalist design of the cab offers intuitive, clutter-free operation, with instant access to all key controls via ergonomic joysticks and an integrated, armrest-mounted, color touchscreen monitor. The armrest-mounted monitor is the operating hub, and can be used to control the following functions:

• Face scan to activate start-up sequence.
• Bucket load-fill assist screen which displays target load, current bucket load, via loader arm mounted sensors, and remaining load.
• Jobsite map, which tracks incoming trucks, indicates the fastest route to the selected work area and displays general site information.
• Weather screens showing real-time weather reports.
• Lighting parameters, Bluetooth telephone, heating and ventilation and music controls.
• Access to secondary machine parameters, machine settings and additional submenus.

All of these settings can be directly modified on the touchscreen. Upon request, the screen can be swiped from the armrest monitor the lower right-hand A-Pillar screen. When no longer required, the operator simply selects another screen from the armrest monitor to swipe and replace.

The inclined A-Pillar screens have been mounted to align with the cab’s pillars and provide at-a-glance key information:

• The top right and left screens display the front and rear camera feed. Cab-mounted cameras replace traditional wing mirrors, and the display is automatically linked to the direction of travel, changing in sync with machine shuttling.
• The central right A-Pillar screen features all key machine operating parameters including machine speed, engine speed, fuel level, engine and oil temperature, selected gear, engine hours and time.
• The lower right screen can be customized, and enables operators to select, using the armrest color touchscreen, the desired view.
• Voice control functionality has been integrated into the cab, through the use of ‘home hub’ technology – a device integrated into the cab roof, which uses Internet of Things technology to action verbal commands. Operators can control cab temperature, select music, make and receive calls and dictate messages using this technology.

Remote machine priming occurs through the use of a retina scan on a connected mobile telephone. This enables operators to remotely initiate cab warming, cooling or defrost functions.

The new cosseting seat automatically extends and pivots to facilitate entry upon door opening, returning to the operating position immediately after the operator is seatedt. This functionality can be manually overridden if desired. Produced in a two-tone finish, the leather accents add a touch of automotive luxury and are complemented by a robust heavy-duty fabric. The entire seat features integrated heating and cooling – designed to keep the operator cool in hot weather and insulate them in cooler periods. Active, weight compensated suspension and fully-adjustable lumbar support enhance comfort for all operators.

An advanced full-cab heating and cooling package has been designed to ensure full body comfort. A range of vents have been precision positioned in the headliner, and in an ideal arc around the operator to ensure optimal full body comfort.

The full range of telematics solutions has been integrated, connecting this concept to a control room, which is manned 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, and ensures optimal machine operation at all times. Fleet managers can communicate directly with the concept through on-board audio and text messaging, enabling the operator to fine tune machine parameters, such as tire pressure to enhance operating efficiency and productivity, from the comfort of the cab.

Safety First Design

Jobsite safety is a top priority for today’s construction equipment professionals, and ensuring that only fully-qualified operators have access to machines is essential. That is why biometric facial recognition technology has been integrated into the access and start-up sequence. A door-mounted facial scanning sensor, scans the operators face, upon approach, to activate door opening. Once the operator is in the cab, a second scan is conducted from the armrest monitor for final confirmation and to initiate the start-up sequence.

Elements of CNH Industrial’s autonomous vehicle development program have been incorporated into the machine’s design. Advanced obstacle detection technology, which automatically brings the machine to a halt and informs the operator if an obstacle comes into range, is available to further enhance jobsite safety.

Advanced Tire Technology

In order to spotlight the key role tire technology plays in machine productivity, the CNH Industrial and MICHELIN design teams worked in partnership to develop a vision for a future airless tire. This cutting edge design foresees a fusion of the tire/wheel combination and features inbuilt suspension. Furthermore, thanks to its pure rubber and patented composite material construction, it has been designed to withstand the extreme conditions present in construction environments, and could be considered indestructible.

The tire’s honeycomb spoke design is lightweight yet robust and thanks to its bespoke asymmetric tread pattern traction, motricity and grip are significantly improved. The tripod blocks on the inner tread section enhance overall operational stability, as well as assisting turning performance. The airless tires reduce overall machine weight and its large footprint delivers low contact pressure. The striking edge bumpers improve overall tire robustness as well as enhancing protection for extended life. Advanced connectivity is foreseen with integrated sensors providing a stream of real-time data to both the operator and the control room – including a tire wear sensor. When active, the integrated sidewall lights are illuminated, which also function as an additional safety feature.

Source:  Redhead Equipment news

The post Case launches the methane-powered wheel loader appeared first on North America FarmQuip Magazine.

“The Case TV450 provides lifting and earthmoving performance that will meet the demand of general contractors, landscapers, roadbuilders — and the 4,000 psi with enhanced high-flow makes this an excellent platform for attachments,” said Deborah Townsley, product marketing manager, Case Construction Equipment. “It’s a powerful, large-frame loader that handles heavy materials and still provides the advantages of low ground pressure for jobsites where finished lawns and underground utilities may exist.”

The Case TV450 is available in either standard mechanical (H Pattern) controls, or optional electro-hydraulic controls (H and ISO pattern interchangeability), as well as optional mechanical hand and foot controls. Case electro-hydraulic controls — EZ-EH — provide adjustable speed and control sensitivity settings that can adjust to meet the needs of each application and attachment, and operators are able to switch between H and ISO patterns via a simple rocker switch.

Case also has made a number of premium features standard on the new Case TV450, including hydraulic one-way self-leveling, and ride control for a smoother ride and greater material retention.

The Case TV450 also comes standard with heavy-duty front and side lights, front cylinder guards, a heavy-duty rear door, remote oil and fuel filters, as well as debris ingression sealing to prevent material from entering the engine compartment.

The loader retains the hallmark Case operating environment, with one of the industry’s widest cabs and lowest entry thresholds for easy access to the cab and greater visibility to the front of the machine. The cab-forward design provides 360-degree visibility and site lines down to the bucket edge. A large, rounded rear window delivers excellent rear visibility — and an all-new standard in-cab rear view mirror further improves operational awareness.

The Case TV450 meets Tier IV Final emissions standards with a selective catalytic reduction (SCR) system that only requires diesel exhaust fluid — no maintenance or lifetime service related to diesel particulate filters is required. Operators can quickly access all routine service points, including the engine, filters, fill points, and all other service points through a single point of access at the rear of the machine. The compact track loader also offers Case’s easy-tilt cab for easy access to the drivetrain compartment, and features reinforced structures for enhanced machine durability and reliability to meet heavy working environments.

Source: Case TV450 Compact Track Loader

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