Company Announcement - The new Cat® 994K Wheel Loader is Caterpillar’s largest wheel loader and handles significantly greater payload compared to its predecessor, the 994H. The result is fewer passes required to load large mining trucks, higher productivity and lower cost per unit of material moved. The standard 994K carries 45 tons (40.8 tonnes) per pass, and the high lift version moves 42 tons (38.1 tonnes) per pass—18 percent and 20 percent more, respectively, than the previous model.

The 994K loads mining trucks in the 250, 200 and 150 short ton classes in one less pass than the previous model. The high lift configuration is a six-pass match with the popular Cat 793 mining truck, and the high lift as well as the standard configuration loads the Cat 789 in five passes. The standard configuration loads the Cat 785 in four passes. More engine power, increased hydraulic flow, greater breakout force and rimpull, and improved lateral stability contribute to high productivity. The new 994K also offers options to expand its application range and versatility. The new high ambient package is available to equip the loader for operation in temperatures as high as 50 degrees C, and the standard cooling package offers improved cooling compared to the previous model. An optional fuel tank holds enough fuel to operate the loader for 24 hours without refueling. New high performance buckets in a wide range of capacities are optimized for the 994K linkage kinematics. The new bucket design has an extended floor, larger radius and angled side bars for fast loading, high fill factors and good material retention.

A number of efficiency improvements, such as the electronically controlled and hydraulically driven cooling system fan, help keep operating costs down. The new engine air filtration system delivers three times the life of the previous system. The new 994K also features safety and operator health enhancements, such as a reduced stair angle for easy access and egress, a Cat Deluxe seat and four-point seat belts. The operator has increased visibility with new mining mirrors, optimized LED lighting and an improved camera for greater site awareness. The loader also delivers reduced sound in the cab to help fight operator fatigue, and increased cab air pressurization and filtration keep dirt out.

The 994K is designed to keep service time to a minimum. Engine oil change intervals are 500 hours minimum, and all routine service points are conveniently located on the left side of the loader. Hydraulically driven auto lube handles linkage greasing. Superior hydraulic system filtration helps ensure long life and optimum performance, and durable LED lights extend service intervals. Modular design makes field assembly and component replacements faster. The 994K design is aligned with Cat MineStar™ System capabilities. The Detect object detection system and proximity awareness system are easily installed on the loader.

Proven power train
The Cat 3516E engine produces net power of 1,739 hp (1297 kW) and is proven in previous 994 loaders as well as large mining trucks. The engine works through a Cat planetary powershift transmission specifically designed for mining applications. An integral Impeller Clutch Torque Converter and Rimpull Control System allow the operator to precisely adjust power at the wheels to specific loading conditions by modulating rimpull from 100 to 25 percent, reducing potential for tire slippage without diminishing hydraulic capacity.

The 994K Wheel Loader will be commercially available in first quarter 2016. For more information about the new mining loader, customers should contact the local Cat dealer.