Overview

The 18 builds on the success of the 16M and offers additional power, a wider moldboard and the possibility to use a more aggressive blade angle, making it an ideal fit for mining operations that run 172-tonne (190-ton) or smaller trucks. The 18 enhances operational efficiencies by increasing coverage and reducing the number of passes required to complete the width of the road in certain applications. The 18 includes features that provide large benefits on operating cost reduction, uptime & performance improvements as well as enhanced safety.

Benefits & Features

BETTER COMFORT AND CONTROL

• 18 foot moldboard and straight 10 inch by 1-3/8 inch cutting edge, allowing operators to increase coverage by 12.5% compared to a 16 foot moldboard. The operator can use a more aggressive blade angle and still be able to deposit the windrow away from the tires to protect tire life. More aggressive blade angles reduce the load on the machine and maintain better ground speed for enhanced performance.
• Variable Horse Power (VHP) provides the ideal amount of power in all gears to efficiently perform diverse motor grader applications while protecting structure and drive train components.
• With optimized combination of weight and balance the 18delivers enhanced traction and the ability to keep ground speed, especially when carrying a large load on the board.
• Emissions reduction technology is transparent and automated with no action required from the operator.
• Rear Ripper / Scarifier penetrates tough material fast for easier movement with the moldboard. Standard ripper with three shanks can add four more for additional versatility.
• Multi-color, touch screen Information Display is the operator's gateway to monitoring machine performance and offers a convenient way of modifying machine parameters to tailor performance to the current task. Provides access to service information for initial troubleshooting.
• Cat Product Link™ Elite is deeply integrated into the machine, helping take the guesswork out of equipment management. Easy access to timely information like machine location, hours, fuel usage, idle time and event codes via the online VisionLink® user interface can help effectively manage fleets and lower operating costs.

ACHIEVE GREATER PRODUCTIVITY

• The 18 helps to reduce downtime and operating costs through improved serviceability, fuel economy and reduced maintenance. Major components are modular in design, so most can be removed and reinstalled without disturbing other components.
• Eco Mode improves fuel economy by reducing high idle engine speed while maintaining machine power. ECO Mode controls the high engine idle speed (capped at 1,900 rpm in working gears) to ensure the engine is performing as efficiently as possible. Provides significant fuel savings especially in operations that typically run light to moderate loads.
• Center shift section of the front frame is made of heavy duty steel casting which improves stress distribution to this high load area for enhanced durability.
• The rear frame structure is lengthened to provide easy service access to components in the engine enclosure as well as improve machine balance.
• Front axle steering cylinder has been designed to enhance durability and hydraulic hoses have been routed to improve reliability.
• A front guard helps protect the front axle from rocks or other debris that could damage the axle or its components.
• The transmission guard provides a steel protection from ground debris.
• Modular cooling package makes for simple removal and installation of components on the cooling system which reduces service time.
• Engine enclosure doors provide complete and easy access to the engine without the impediment of any enclosure post.
• Extended maintenance intervals reduce the number of touches and downtime.
• Ok to Start and critically low fluid monitoring systems help prevent critical components from damage when low fluid levels are present. All information is available via the Information Display within the cab, and diagnostic codes are logged.

BUILT-IN SAFETY FEATURES

• Caterpillar considers the safety of everyone in, on or around Cat equipment when developing new products or enhancing safety features for existing products.
• The 18has numerous safety features such as but not limited to -

1. Access to Tandem
2. Light Emitting Diode (LED) Enclosure Service Lights
3. Seat Belt Indication
4. Fire Suppression Ready System
5. Rearview Camera
6. Optional Access Platform
7. Optional Service Access Platform