During a virtual press event on May 3, 2023, Caterpillar announced the new cat Recuperator/stabilizer RM600 and RM800. These machines compete at the top end of the retaker/stabilizer size class with an adjustable height design capable of cross slope cutting. They work using the cat C18 engine, giving the RM600 up to 17% more power than the RM500B. The RM800 offers up to 42% more power than the RM500B and up to 23% more than the RM600.
The rotor system
The RM600 and RM800 models adopt system components from cat cold milling machines for reliable cutting and mixing. With a belt-driven rotor drive system, the machines are capable of cutting flush on the right side.
The rotor drive features a heavy-duty hydraulically operated clutch that requires no adjustment. The versatile rotor can be configured with bolt-on paddle tool support protection for full-depth recovery applications or wedge protection to reduce drag for ground stabilization.
The new System K rotor utilizes the same base block and double-tapered tool holder components without clamping the cold planer to deliver superior material quality on a variety of projects. The exit and return to cut functions simplify operation, save time and ensure that the machine maintains a constant depth of cut. The high-strength, abrasion-resistant alloys of the System K rotor can withstand tough, high-power applications, and the cutting tools are strategically placed to provide ideal material sizing and homogeneous mixing results. Ease of access to the rotor system simplifies service and replacement of rotor bits.
Efficient power, high mixing quality
There are two configurations available for a cat C18 engine to meet regional emissions requirements. Its cooling system uses a fresh air intake to maximize fuel efficiency and reduce emissions. To allow the system to cool more efficiently to extend cleaning and maintenance intervals, automatic cooling fans periodically cycle in reverse to clean the heat exchangers. A single electronic control module monitors engine performance and provides diagnostics to the operator.
With front-to-rear weight distribution optimized for stability in hard cuts, standard electronically controlled all-wheel drive maximizes traction and mobility for the new RM600 and RM800. Four height-adjustable legs provide up to +/-12.5% (8 degrees) of slope on either side when working on uneven terrain or to maintain traction for difficult ground stabilization.
Two heavy-duty six-rib straps with automatic tensioning prevent slipping. The new models offer the power and performance to efficiently cut 2438 millimeters (96 inches) wide up to 508 millimeters (20 inches) deep. Advanced electronic controls and automatic load control maintain rotor mixing depth and optimum machine speed to deliver ideal mixing quality. Adjustment of the front and rear mixing chamber doors allows instant modification of material gradation. An easy-to-read indicator on the touchscreen informs the operator of door positions. A rear rotor chamber door float feature simplifies operation by allowing the operator to select the desired down pressure. RM600 and RM800 also offer bi-directional cutting capability.
Increased versatility
The positioning of the wheels in the corners provides a highly maneuverable recovery/stabilizer design. The machines can navigate an incredibly small inside turning radius of 3.1 meters (10.1 feet). The RM600 and RM800 have four steering modes:
- Only in front
- Posterior only
- crab
- coordinated
These modes further enhance on-site maneuverability. Offering up to +/-12.5% (8 degrees) of slope on either side when working on uneven terrain or to maintain traction in difficult soil stabilization applications, the four-post design and adjustable height enhance the ‘stability and cutting precision.
Water and emulsion spray systems are available, and the emulsion system features self-cleaning nozzles. It is designed to supply water and bitumen emulsion. Computerized metering offers precise application rates with variable flow rates from 30 liters/minute (lpm) to 1,900 lpm—8 (gpm) to 500 gpm—for water and from 30 lpm to 850 lpm (8 gpm to 225 gpm ) for the emulsion to satisfy the site. needs. The operator controls the flow of additives and customizes the spray width from inside the cab.
the taxi
Inspired by the RM400 design, controls are grouped by function for quick and easy access. A small steering wheel provides precise steering, eliminating the larger wheel and steering column, which could obstruct the operator’s view. The operator can easily adapt the speed and functions of the machine to the grading specification using the large 25 cm (10 inch) color touch screens and push button controls.
Sliding hydraulically from side to side, the cab is easily positioned to improve visibility to the front and sides of the machine.
“Beyond our power, we have a new cab and controls for these machines actually taken from our RM400 with the latest cat electronics, easy to use controls, very easy to learn and very easy to operate,” said Mark Eiden, global sales consultant. cat Paving “A Caterpillar-exclusive feature is our fully left-to-right sliding cab, which really helps the operator find that comfortable visibility whether they’re working from the right side of the machine or the left side of the machine.”
Floor-to-ceiling glass and an inclined panel on the right-hand side provide a clear view of the work ahead and the leading edge of the cutting chamber. The pressurized cab design with air conditioning and heater/defroster provides a comfortable environment for the operator while keeping out noise, dust and the elements.
Standard and optional cameras enhance the performance and safety of the new RM600 and RM800. Improving front and rear visibility, standard front- and rear-mounted cameras provide configurable guidelines on the touchscreen. Two standard cameras mounted above the front and rear mixing chamber doors give operators visibility into obstructions and material grading.
Reduced maintenance
Long service intervals reduce ownership and running costs from RM600 to RM800. Engine oil service intervals occur every 500 hours of operation. Access to maintenance points is easy with daily checkpoints centrally located on a secure platform.
The standard compressed air system can power pneumatic tools and offers two access points to reduce rotor bit change time. Service mode allows the motor to run while the machine is locked, supplying compressed air to hold the rotor securely. Side service doors provide quick access to inspect or change end ring bits without reaching inside the rotor chamber. Further simplifying rotor maintenance, the rotor can be hydraulically actuated to rotate in any direction via a control pendant.
Connectivity
The new models feature built-in diagnostics to monitor machine systems, alert the operator to performance issues and simplify troubleshooting. Standard Product Link provides critical machine status, operation and location data and allows the use of cat Remote services.
End User Feedback
During the media event, Scott Reynolds, CEO of ARS Companies, spoke about his company’s experience with the first RM800 recuperator/stabilizer. He said some of the most useful features were in the cockpit. The design and ergonomics appeal to younger operators, which is a boon when faced with the labor shortage facing the construction industry. He also added that in-cab amenities allow operators to work longer and increase productivity.
More information about the cat RM600 and RM800 recuperators/stabilizers visit the caterpillar web site