Equipment/Software/Literature

March 8, 2004
Here's the TH560B telehandler, the largest of the B-Series line introduced to date.

New high performance telehandler

Here's the TH560B telehandler, the largest of the B-Series line introduced to date. The B-Series telehandlers feature new designs to provide increased performance, easier operation, expanded versatility, and reduced maintenance.

It has an operating weight of 26,450 lb and a rated load capacity of 10,000 lb. Maximum lift height is 44.25 ft, and maximum forward reach is 30.2 ft.

There are three steering modes—two wheel, crab, and circle steer—for agile maneuvering in tight spaces, and the turning radius is 12.7 ft. The unit features 48° axle steering angle. No tail swing helps maneuverability in tight spaces.

A standard rear axle lock engages automatically when the boom is lifted more than 45°. Newly designed stabilizers offer ±5° of leveling and minimize the bulldozing effect other stabilizers can have. A frame leveling system gives ±10° of leveling capability.

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Power train components are designed as a total system to optimize performance and life. The Cat 3054E engine is offered in two configurations. The standard engine generates 99 gross hp, and the optional configuration cranks out 120 gross hp.

The engine provides high torque and low emissions, as it complies with the latest round of worldwide emissions regulations. The engine also offers fuel efficiency and reduced sound levels.

A new cooling system cooling fan is driven directly from the engine through the transmission and as such does not require an additional hydraulic pump or related lines. Clean air is pulled from outside the machine through the forward facing, fully screened cooling pack.

The powersyncro transmission has four speeds forward and three reverse for travel speeds as fast as 20 mph. The transmission mounting design eliminates the need for a separate transfer box. The transmission shares oil with the work tool hydraulics, decreasing the number of filters on the machines.

Sure-footed stopping power is provided by oil-immersed disk brakes on the front axle. The braking surface area is 25% greater than its predecessor's surface area. The machine can be equipped with an optional differential lock for improved traction in poor underfoot conditions.

Another optional feature, self-aligning steering, allows the operator to change steering modes with the wheels in any position. Using axle-mounted sensors, the system actuates the change when the wheels are centered.

The TH560B comes with either a canopy or an enclosed cab, which is certified to provide falling object and rollover protection.

Source: Caterpillar Inc., 100 NE Adams St., Peoria, IL 61629.

Weld end prep tool pneumatic clamp helps speed setup

A pneumatic clamp system that can be installed on the MILLHOG right angle welding end prep tools helps increase cycle times between end preps for repetitive tasks.

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The MILLHOG Air Clamp is a pneumatic cylinder that replaces this firm's manual draw rod clamping assembly for automating repetitive applications. Featuring a self-centering draw rod that inserts into the tube or pipe ID, this pneumatic cylinder actuates the clamp ribs for securely mounting the tool and provides instant attach-and-release, which helps speed setup.

Capable of increasing cycle times by as much as 600%, the company says, the system is offered in three sizes to fit the firm's Ground, Mongoose, and Tube Weasel MILLHOG tools. Easily field-retrofit onto existing tools, applications include boiler tube seal weld removal, large numbers of end preps on the same size tube on boiler panels, and in fabrication shops.

Source: ESCO Tool, ESCO Technologies Inc., Box 530, Medfield, MA 02052.

Custom electrode assemblies

A full range of electrode assemblies and flame sense rods can be custom fabricated for direct spark and hot surface ignition applications.

Assemblies can incorporate rod lengths, bends, spark gaps, and ceramic sizes, along with various types of mounting brackets and terminals.

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Featuring Steatite or alumina ceramics for uses up to 1,800° F. and rods made from nickel-chrome, stainless steel, and other specialty metals, assemblies can be supplied with embedded lead wires and compatible high voltage and-or suppression cables in custom lengths with a range of connectors, quick-disconnects, and boots.

Source: Fenwal, 400 Main St., Ashland, MA 01721.