Caterpillar has developed a vehicle that combines elements of its D3K2 dozer with the HM518 mulcher.
The new D3K2 mulcher incorporates the solid base of the dozer with the design of the mulcher, and is designed to cope with small to medium diameter material in various applications, including right-of-way construction, site development, tree management and fire-break clearing.
Available with either a conventional undercarriage or a low-ground-pressure version, the new machine works efficiently in soft underfoot conditions, on slopes and in rough terrain. The operating width of the D3K2 matches the width of the older mulcher’s 1,822mm drum, while the finished debris size depends on the type of material being processed.
A pressurized cab offers 360° visibility through poly-carb windows for enhanced protection to the operator. Additionally, a pressure gauge mounted to the mulcher frame allows for easy monitoring of performance and the hydraulically adjustable push guard and front hood provide extra safety. For comfort, an air suspension seat with seat-mounted controls reduces operator fatigue and promotes productivity.
A complete model configuration, the HM518 mulcher cannot be retrofitted to standard D3K2 dozer models.
July 28, 2017
