COP28 has seen participating members agree to transition away from conventional carbon-intensive fuels in a just, orderly and equitable manner.

Presently, cleaner or renewable energy technologies and systems are still being assessed and developed for use in various industrial applications, and achieving widespread commercial adoption would take some time. Other methods to reduce the amount of carbon being released into the atmosphere, such as carbon capture and storage, are also being studied to determine its overall impact.

These solutions and technologies are exciting in accelerating the journey towards a sustainable and net-zero emissions world – when they are ready to be deployed. Until then, how can Tractors Singapore support you during this transition?

While the type of fuel has been a key consideration in the plan to reduce carbon emissions in industrial applications, there are other ways to mitigate the release of greenhouse gases in the interim until carbon emissions-free technology catches up. One of which is using less resources to achieve the same or better performance or output.

Caterpillar has been constantly improving the design of its engines and machines with each iteration.

New models released are more sustainable than the previous generation.

Next Gen range of Excavators first launched in 2016 - Cat 320 (left) & Cat 336 (right)

Long-time users of Cat engines and machines know that these assets are reliable workhorses, built and proven to last for years. The engine or machine’s lifespan can be further enhanced by aftermarket Cat remanufacturing (Reman) and rebuild options, allowing the asset to work even longer. Technologies such as Connectivity solutions, and onboard technology for construction equipment utilize data to drive operational insights for each individual machine, and even an entire fleet.

These innovations help improve and optimize fuel and operational efficiency to drive towards the goal: to produce less waste, less emissions, and consume less fuel while helping customers get more work done.

Cat offers Reman and Rebuild options allowing your assets to work longer

 

Reliable Products Designed to be more Sustainable

Each new generation of Cat products is designed to be more efficient, without compromising on quality - Caterpillar has committed to have 100% of new products through 2030 to be more sustainable than the previous generation^*1.

For example, the Next Gen range of hydraulic excavators, starting from models Cat 320 and Cat 336,  do away with Pilot Control and secondary air filters. Maintenance intervals are also extended from 500 hours to 1000 hours.

Maintenance interval improvements for Cat 320 GX excavator against its predecessor, Cat 320D2

The new models are also more fuel efficient, consuming less fuel for the same job done. The electronic-controlled engine of the Next Gen excavators have a Smart mode that adjusts the engine speed according to energy requirements, matching the power to the job. For example, if the excavator is idling, the engine speed will automatically reduce, consuming less energy. With this feature, Cat excavators are able to operate with a smaller engine and consume less fuel while maintaining excellent performance, compared to equivalent competitor models that use larger engines and more fuel.

New machines are also designed with improved operator safety and comfort in mind. The cabin is designed with a Roll-Over Protective Structure (ROPS) that protects the operator in the event of a roll-over, and a new seat with joystick control to reduce operator fatigue.

Maintenance checkpoints are fully accessible from the ground level, ensuring daily maintenance checks are faster, easier and safer. These checkpoints include the engine oil dipstick, fuel water separator, fuel tank water and sediment drains, and cooling system coolant level check.

Improved safety: Maintenance checkpoints are fully accessible from the ground level.

Many Cat products can operate on lower carbon fuels such as biodiesel (B20) and renewable diesels (e.g. 100% hydrotreated vegetable oil, or HVO). These can be drop-in fuel replacements for Cat diesel engines to help reduce lifecycle greenhouse gas emissions, without any engine conversion required. In fact, all Cat diesel engines can run on HVO.

In 2023, Tractors Singapore conducted a proof of concept exhaust emission test on the Cat C32 generator set using HVO. The results showed a general reduction in NOx, CO2, particulate matter emissions with the use of the renewable diesel, while performing to its rated nameplate capacity without any derating.

^*1 Source: Caterpillar’s 2030 Sustainability Goals

Read: First HVO test in Singapore 

 

Improving Efficiency and Reducing Waste with Data and Technology

New Cat equipment comes factory-fitted with onboard technology to aid the operator on the site. Onboard technology specific to the job application, such as Cat Grade and Cat Compact, uses site level information and advanced machine operation and automation to improve accuracy and operational efficiency at the job site, reducing rework. This lowers operational cost and saves time, while also improving safety, productivity and better utilization of personnel and machines.

Increase in productivity with the use of Cat onboard technology.

By connecting Cat assets with Product Link®, fleet owners and operators can get data-driven insights through the VisionLink® app. With VisionLink, the health and status of the equipment fleet can be monitored in a timely manner. Fuel burn and excessive idle time can be identified and managed, enabling more proactive decision-making on-site. This improves operational efficiency, in turn reducing the carbon footprint and also improving the bottom line.

 

Extending Product and Component Life with Cat Reman Parts and Rebuilds

The lifespan of a Cat machine or engine that is reaching end-of-life can be extended through product and component rebuilds. A rebuild restores the product or component to like-new condition and performance. For example, the Cat 966H wheel loader can be rebuilt by having its engine undergo a complete overhaul, and its drive train repaired.

Cat Reman part options are also available for a variety of components. With Cat Reman, a used component at the end of its initial serviceable life (known as core) is returned, inspected, and undergoes a remanufacturing process to return it to like-new condition that matches the OEM performance specifications of a new product. This supports the circular economy and reduces the raw materials needed in the production of new parts, minimizing waste.

Cat Reman

Cat products have a longstanding reputation of being reliable and durable, helping customers get the job done efficiently and effectively. With greater technological advances and developments, the portfolio of Cat products and services will continue to help customers further in the drive for greater sustainability in their operations.