Caterpillar 446, 1993 Technical Specifications
| SideShift or CenterMount | CM |
| SAE dig depth (mm) | 5173 |
| Reach @ ground level (mm) | 6604 |
| Loading height (mm) | 4310 |
| Bucket width, min-max (mm) | 457-914 |
| Bucket breakout (kgf) | 6147 |
| Dipper breakout (kgf) | 4383 |
| Slew System | Cylinder |
| Loader Bucket Capacity (m3) | 1.1 |
| Dump height (mm) | 2699 |
| Bucket width (mm) | 2434 |
| Bucket breakout (kgf) | 5460 |
| Engine Make & Model | Cat 3114T |
| Engine power (kW@rpm) | 71@2200 |
| Engine displacement (lit) | 4.4 |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Pump type | VDAP |
| Pump flow (lit/min) | 162 |
| Relief valve pressure (bar) | 200 |
| Transmission type | Powershift |
| Drive | 2WD/4WD |
| Speeds, FR | 44 |
| Maximum speed (km/h) | 37 |
| Ride control (Std/Opt/NA) | — |
| Travel length (mm) | 7954 |
| Travel height (mm) | 4193 |
| Width (mm) | 2434 |
| Turn circle radius without brakes (mm) | 8408 |
| Operating weight (kg) | 9126 |
| Model | 446 |
Introduction
The Caterpillar 446 is a heavy-duty backhoe loader designed to handle tough jobs. With its unique CenterMount or SideShift options, the machine can easily navigate tight spaces while providing excellent stability. Digging, loading, and lifting are a breeze with its versatile features. However, the 1993 version had both advantages and disadvantages, which we will discuss in detail.
Advantages of Caterpillar 446 Technical Specifications
1. SAE Dig Depth of 5173mm
The Caterpillar 446 can dig up to 5173 mm depth, providing ample reach for various excavation and trenching tasks. With the impressive digging depth, it can easily handle large construction sites and earthmoving tasks.
2. CenterMount or SideShift Option
The Caterpillar 446 is available in both CenterMount and SideShift options, providing versatility on the job site. The CenterMount provides excellent stability for digging or lifting heavy loads, while the SideShift allows for easy movement in tight spaces. These options ensure that the machine can tackle any job, no matter how small or complex.
3. Loader Bucket Capacity of 1.1 m3
The Caterpillar 446 comes with a loader bucket capacity of 1.1 m3, allowing it to handle large amounts of material with ease. The bucket can easily handle bulky materials such as sand, gravel, and debris, making it an ideal choice for construction sites.
4. Engine Power of 71kW @ 2200rpm
The Caterpillar 446 is powered by a Cat 3114T engine that produces 71 kW of power at 2200rpm. This powerful engine ensures that the machine can handle tough jobs with ease. The engine is also fuel-efficient, reducing operational costs and increasing productivity.
5. Powershift Transmission
The Caterpillar 446 has a Powershift transmission that provides smooth and efficient shifting, giving operators optimal control of the machine. The transmission also reduces operator fatigue, allowing for prolonged work hours without compromising on performance.
6. Travel Length of 7954 mm
The machine has a travel length of 7954 mm, allowing it to easily transport materials across job sites. The long travel length ensures better maneuverability, especially in tight spaces.
Disadvantages of Caterpillar 446 Technical Specifications
1. Ride Control Not Available
The Caterpillar 446 does not have ride control, so operators may experience bumps and jolts while driving on uneven surfaces. This can lead to operator fatigue and decreased productivity.
2. Bucket Breakout Force of 5460 kgf
The Caterpillar 446 has a bucket breakout force of 5460 kgf, which is relatively low compared to other backhoe loaders in its class. The low breakout force makes it unsuitable for tough jobs that require heavy lifting and digging.
3. Pump Flow of 162 liters/min
The machine has a pump flow of 162 liters/min, which is low compared to other backhoe loaders in its class. This can lead to slower cycle times, reducing productivity on the job site.
4. Relief Valve Pressure of 200 bar
The Caterpillar 446 has a relief valve pressure of 200 bar, which is lower than the relief valve pressure in other backhoe loaders in its class. This can lead to slower operation speed, reducing productivity on the job site.
5. Turn Circle Radius Without Brakes of 8408 mm
The turn circle radius without brakes is relatively large, making it difficult to navigate in tight spaces. This can lead to longer cycle times and reduced efficiency on the job site.
Real-World Examples
1. Versatility: The CenterMount or SideShift option ensures that the Caterpillar 446 is versatile enough to handle any job site challenges. For instance, a construction site with a small space that requires excavation could benefit from the SideShift option, which offers better maneuverability.
2. Fuel Efficiency: The fuel-efficient Cat 3114T engine helps reduce operational costs for contractors. For example, mining operations require a constant supply of fuel for their heavy machinery, and a fuel-efficient engine such as the one in Caterpillar 446 can save significantly on fuel costs.
3. Reliability: A road construction job site’s reliability is paramount, and the Caterpillar 446’s engine power and Powershift transmission provide high performance and long-term reliability. Such dependability ensures the job is done effectively.
Overall Assessment
The Caterpillar 446 is a reliable and versatile machine for a variety of construction and mining tasks. The CenterMount or SideShift option ensures that it can handle any job, no matter how small or large. Its engine power and transmissions provide high performance and durability, making it a top choice for contractors. However, the machine’s low bucket breakout force, low pump flow, and large turn circle radius without brakes can limit productivity on job sites. Its lack of ride control could also lead to operator fatigue.
