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Cat puts down the hammer

EQUIPMENT producer Caterpillar has released three additions to its E Series hammers for use on me...

Donna Schmidt

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The hydraulically powered H140Es, H160Es and H180Es feature automatic shut-off as well as silencing and vibration buffering to make operator use easier.

In addition to extended durability, the hammers have also been designed to be field serviceable with common hand tools.

Because they are engineered and designed by the OEM, they are an ideal match to Cat carriers.

The three hammers complement Caterpillar excavators ranging from the 324E to the 374D L.

Mounting brackets are available for Cat quick couplers.

The energy classes of the H140Es, H160Es and H18Es are a respective 6000 foot-pounds (8135 joules), 8500ft-lb (11,525J) and 12,000ft-lb (16,270J).

The symmetrical design of the E Series hammers allows for a 180-degree rotation of the housing, which compensates for wear and in turn extends the housing’s lifespan and its lower portion ties in rock edges for housing protection as well as to enable the quick positioning of boulders.

Cat said the system, including auto shut-off capabilities, enhanced hammer reliability and durability through the elimination of high internal stresses created by blank firing.

The line also includes an external pressure control valve, reducing service time at times of needed adjustments and sound suppression is standard.

Caterpillar hammer settings are pre-programmed in Cat excavator tool control systems for easy set-up.

The oil flow and pressure are fully adjustable in the tool control program.

Actual hammer working hours can be recorded for routine maintenance purposes.

Cat has made an optional wear package available for even more hammer durability for severe applications.

According to the company, the housing has been designed for strength in addition to reducing life cycle costs for the user – for example, the sleek, curved front and back profile of the product eliminates stress points and also transfers forces to the hammer’s bottom.

Additionally, side plates that are made of one piece eliminate cracking points.

The E Series hammers build on the company’s existing D Series hammers, which the new hammers replace.

They are fully supported by Cat dealers so customers can work with a single organization for machine and work tool parts and service.

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