New Caterpillar material handlers feature updated engine and hydraulics system for improved fuel efficiency

A new engine combined with a redesigned hydraulic system in the new Caterpillar MH3022 and MH3024 material handlers reduce fuel consumption up to 10%.

Caterpillar M3022MaterialHandler 550b101b2daf0
Caterpillarinc 10055173

The new Cat MH3022 and MH3024 are the smallest models in the new Caterpillar line of wheeled material handlers in the greater-than-20-ton size class. Building on the solid reputation of their predecessor models, the M318D MH and M322D MH, the MH3022 and MH3024 feature a new engine and redesigned hydraulic system that combine to reduce fuel consumption by up to 10%. Redesign of the cab and cab access, added lighting and vision-enhancing cameras promote greater safety, comfort and convenience for the operator, and a wide choice of dedicated front linkages, work tools, guards and undercarriages allow the new purpose-built models to work productively and durably in industrial, scrap-recycling, mill-yard and waterway applications.

Intensive field surveys help Caterpillar continuously improve the design of wheeled material handlers for low-cost operation and maximum customer value, while maintaining proven Cat quality, reliability and features, such as the Cat Smartboom, load-sensing hydraulics, dedicated swing pump and large working envelope.

Fuel Efficiency and Sustainability

The MH3022 and MH3024 use the Cat C7.1 ACERT engine, rated at 169 hp (126 kW, 171 PS), and have operating weights of 22.7 and 25.7 metric tons, respectively.

The engine meets US EPA Tier 4 Final/EU Stage IV emission standards and features refinements that yield added torque and faster response to changes in load. With a durable, field proven design, the engine now integrates an emissions aftertreatment system, which requires no attention other than periodically replenishing the diesel exhaust fluid (DEF) tank.

Emissions technology includes the Cat NOx-reduction system, selective catalytic reduction, diesel oxidation catalyst, diesel particulate filter (DPF), and high-pressure/common-rail fuel system. The DPF features passive regeneration which does not require operator intervention and causes no interruption in the work cycle. The design of the engine and the aftertreatment system results in low fluid consumption for new models, conserving both fuel and DEF to lower operating costs.

An engine-idle shutdown system saves fuel by shutting down the engine when it has been idling for a preset amount of time. In addition, the Eco Mode has been refined and reduces engine speed with no reduction of power, providing reduced fuel consumption with no compromise in performance.

A new electronically controlled hydraulic system combines with new medium-pressure pumps and new fan pump to enhance hydraulic response and reduce overall load on the engine for greater fuel efficiency. The optional Cat Bio HYDO Advanced hydraulic oil and bio-diesel blends up to B20 can be used without reducing the life of these systems.

Comfort and Safety

The exterior of the new models has been completely restyled, including a new operator station, featuring higher pressurization, larger door with added glass, new windshield with parallel wipers, new mirrors (with a heated option), new rain visor and light protectors, larger skylight, standard rearview camera (housed in the redesigned counterweight), and a right-side camera with a separate in-cab monitor. Cabin guards are available for additional operator protection when required.

Entering and exiting the cabin is now easier with redesigned three access steps and a newly designed door handrail. A fourth step is integrated directly into the skirt of the upper carriage, just below the cab door. Inside the cabin, the left-hand console tilts to facilitate entering and leaving the seat, and the console includes an integral safety lever. Also new is the steering wheel, which is height adjustable and features a tilting column. The new cabin has an interior sound level of just 71 dB(A), and vibration levels have been reduced.

The standard lighting package for the new models now includes a counterweight light (enhancing the rearview camera function at night), three cabin-mounted lights, and light on the boom as well as new stick lights. Standard LED lights replace the previous halogen lighting for enhanced illumination, lower power consumption, and longer life. Optional guards are available on the front linkage lights for applications in which falling and flying debris are hazards. Two counterweights are available to match application needs, increase stability and provide great lift capacities.

The MH3022 and MH3024 also incorporate a PIN-code anti-theft system. For operator convenience during short breaks in production, the system remembers the last code entered before engine shutdown and allows that code to remain active for a period of time.

Easy to operate, maintain and service

An automatic system, when enabled by the operator, senses machine parameters and locks the axle-oscillation function and sets the service brakes, readying the machine to work. This feature reduces operator fatigue by removing the need to constantly press the brake pedal and results in added productivity. Brake and axle lock are automatically released when the operator presses the travel pedal again. Also, a new travel-lock system, engaged via the switch panel, combines implement-stop and swing-lock functions.

The engine, as in predecessor models, is longitudinally mounted with the cooling package forward of the engine, resulting in easy, ground-level access to routine maintenance points. An electric fuel-priming pump eliminates filling filters before installation. All the coolers are now grouped in the same compartment, and the condenser can be tilted with no tool for ease of cleaning. A new industrial package will provide improved protection when working in harsh environments, including a thin-grid mesh and engine air pre-cleaner. Electrical and hydraulic components are now grouped in specific areas for ease of service, and an automatic centralized greasing device (Auto-lube) is standard, allowing operators to remain focused on the job. Access to the top platform is also improved, including a new service platform for DEF and fueling, as well as new handrails.

Integrated Cat Connect Technologies

To assist customers in improving jobsite efficiency and managing the MH3022 and MH3024 for optimum return on investment, Cat Connect offers LINK and DETECT technologies. Product Link helps fleet owners track locations, hours, fuel consumption, idle time, events and diagnostic codes by wirelessly reporting all via the online VisionLink user interface to help lower owning and operating costs. 

Versatility and Work tools

The MH3022 and MH3024 can be equipped with a Variable Angle boom, One-Piece boom or Material Handling boom, as well as a choice of sticks, quick coupler and work tools.

As matching work tools with the machine is critical for productivity and efficiency, a variety of Cat work tools are offered to dig, sort, load or strip any kind of material. Machine hydraulic pressures and flows can be easily adjusted from the in-cab monitor, while the operator can adjust the machine behavior to the task and to personal preference.

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