Cat D3K2 mulcher features productive design with operator safety and comfort as priorities

By MEq December 3, 2019 18:19

The factory-built Cat D3K2 Mulcher combines the solid foundation of the D3K2 dozer with the ruggedly designed Cat HM518 mulcher to take on a mix of small-to-medium-diameter material in a wide range of applications, including right-of-way construction/maintenance, site development, tree management, and fire-break clearing. Available with either a conventional long (XL) undercarriage or a low-ground-pressure (LGP) undercarriage, the machine works efficiently in soft underfoot conditions, on slopes, and in rough terrain. For added utility, the mulcher can be removed and an optional Cat VPAT (variable-pitch/angle/tilt) blade installed.

The D3K2 Mulcher now comes standard with a reversing fan which automatically changes air flow direction periodically to purge debris from the radiator and enclosures. The reversing fan is beneficial as it reduces the time required to clean debris from the machine and ultimately optimizes machine uptime.

The width of the HM518 mulcher, featuring a 72-in (1822 mm) wide drum, is matched to the operating width of the D3K2 for optimum efficiency and productivity. Finished debris size depends on the type of material being processed and the time allowed for multiple passes.

Operator safety and comfort are priorities in the design of the D3K2 Mulcher. The pressurized cab, with 360-degree visibility, is fitted with screens and “poly-carb” windows for added protection when mulching. The pressure gauge mounted to the mulcher frame allows the operator to easily monitor mulcher performance, and the hydraulically adjustable push guard and hydraulically operated front hood provide an added measure of safety. An air suspension seat (with seat-mounted controls) reduces operator fatigue and promotes high production.

Caterpillar markets the D3K2 Mulcher as a complete model configuration, and the HM518 mulcher cannot be retrofitted to standard D3K2 dozer models.