An independent study has found the Case 821E Series wheel loader delivers significant fuel savings over its predecessor, the 821C, even when performing at a higher capacity.
The study found the 821E consumed 4% less fuel than the 821C when working in maximum mode and 16% less fuel when operating in economy mode.
"One of our primary aims in the redesign of the E series was to reduce fuel consumption, which is a big issue for operators worldwide, particularly given the high cost of fuel," said Ian Johnston, CASE product marketing manager.
For the purpose of the study, the 821C was fitted with a 3 metre³ heaped general-purpose bucket, the largest bucket available for that model, while the 821E was fitted with the standard 3.25 metre³ general-purpose bucket.
The machines worked from stockpiles of heavy desert soil which contained a high percentage of fine soil mixed with rock ranging from 5 to 30 cm in diameter. Both machines were fitted with an auxiliary fuel tank, which was refitted after each test run with fuel weighed on an electronic scale.
The fuel savings in the new models come as a result of the design, including a 6.7 L Tier III compliant engine.
"The fully electronic, multi horsepower engine is nearly 25% smaller than the engine on the 821C; however, the common rail fuel system with air charge cooling ensures peak performance and fuel efficiency," Johnston said.
The 821E also features three net horsepower ratings, as opposed to a single rating on the previous model, and three corresponding net peak torque ratings. Operators can select the horsepower curves from the cab and move between maximum, standard and economy mode depending on the task at hand.
The auto idle system delivers further fuel savings. The system drops the engine's normal idle of 900 to 600 rpm if the throttle or hydraulic controls are not used for 30 seconds. Along with this, a fuel cooler maintains fuel density in the common rail system.