On-Site Magazine

Cat B-Series Rollers

By On-Site   

Construction

The new Caterpillar B-Series tandem vibratory rollers include the CB64B, CB66B, and CB68B models. These machines are 12 to 14 metric ton compactors that feature wider drum widths, high-flow water spray system, increased operator comfort, and enhanced technology to help operators and machines perform at higher levels. Many of the technological enhancements are offered through Cat® Compaction Control. They include Auto-Adjustable Compaction (AAC), Pass-Count and Temperature Mapping, Machine-to-Machine Communication, and Compaction Meter Value (CMV). The CB64B is equipped with 2.0 m (79″) drums, while the CB66B and CB68B utilize 2.1 m (84″) drums. The B-Series tandem rollers offer a variety of vibratory options including dual amplitude, dual frequency, Versa Vibe™, and five amplitude systems. The Versa Vibe™ system creates a 2-in-1 machine with four amplitudes and two frequencies. This versatile system provides two settings for lighter hitting and higher working speeds on thin lifts; and two settings for heavier hitting, and slower speeds, on thick lifts or those with challenging mixes.The Cat C4.4 ACER engine meets U.S. EPA Tier 4 Final and EU Stage IV emissions and provides 106 kW (142 hp) of power. Auto-Adjustable Compaction optimizes compaction by delivering the highest amplitude possible without de-coupling or over-compacting. The technology includes both the front drum and rear drum. This unique system is able to adjust through the full range of amplitudes in as little as 4 seconds for uniform compaction throughout the mat. Pass-Count and Temperature Mapping systems provide real-time visual references of the passes made and asphalt mat temperatures present. Machine-to-machine communication system helps keep rolling patterns in sync by sharing coverage and pass-count maps between the operating displays of multiple machines. By viewing the color display, operators can monitor areas of coverage and the number of passes made. If a trailing operator sees an area of missed coverage, they can easily pick it up to ensure the entire rolling pattern gets the attention that is needed. This system is extremely helpful when performing echelon compaction when multiple machines are executing five or seven pass rolling pattern. Compaction meter value technology uses a drum-mounted accelerometer to measure and record forces of the vibrating drums. A calculation derived from the recorded forces is used to create a unit-less value that provides an indication of stiffness. This unit-less value calculation is referred to as a “composite stiffness value” that indicates stiffness of the current and supporting layers beneath the drum. The system is capable of utilizing RTK level accuracy to provide the highest level of Global Navigation Satellite System positioning (GNSS) and is able to correlate compaction, frequency, and pass-count data to specific location.Visibility and comfort are enhanced by the standard 180º seating and optional 360º positioning. New handwheel steering technology eliminates the front steering console, enabling the operator to easily monitor water spray performance. An LCD display and push-button controls simplify operation. These models feature a newly designed center-articulating hitch with 6 degrees of oscillation that ensures mat contact and a smoother ride over uneven surfaces. An offset hitch option extends coverage up to 170 mm (6″) and simplifies control next to obstacles. It delivers excellent performance on longitudinal joints by pinching the edge with the lead drum and sealing the joint with the trailing drum. The high-capacity water spray system on these models are designed with dual spray bars, dual pumps, triple filtration, adjustable intermittent operation, and an optional freeze-protection kit. The dual pumps provide back-up capability and alternate with the direction of travel to maximize service life. Clogging is prevented through filters at the fill point, water pumps and spray nozzles. The adjustable intermittent mode conserves water and minimizes re-fills.

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