Caterpillar introduces new forest machine for woods and mill-yard works

The brand new Caterpillar FM528 Forest Machine. (Image: Caterpillar)

The company said, “This machine is crafted to meet the diverse demands of forestry professionals, providing them with unparalleled versatility, enhanced operator comfort, and cost-effective performance.”

The triple grouser tracked unit was designed for land clearing, fire clean-up, chipping, grinder loading, mulching and processing. It can be equipped with a range of Caterpillar forestry grapple sizes from 1,322mm up to 1,524mm.

The company said the FM528 offers a fixed or live heel and blade configuration (a ‘first-ever’ for Caterpillar’s forest machines), which allows operators to easily adapt to various applications like navigating steep terrain, managing heavy logs or performing detailed sorting tasks.

“With options for processor, roadbuilder, log loader, and knuckleboom loader controls, this multi-configurable machine helps crews easily transition between forestry and mill-yard work.”

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The FM528 is equipped with a 129kW (173hp) Cat C4.4e TTA diesel engine – coupled with a electrohydraulic system – that meets EPA Tier 4/EU Stage V/Japan 2014 emission standards.

“The high-torque engine operates effectively at low RPMs, minimising maintenance costs from wear and tear while maintaining precision in various job tasks,” Caterpillar said. “Further, the hydraulic system features cooling E-Fans with reversing capabilities to optimise engine efficiency and temperature control.”

The OEM noted the novel line shares common parts and service requirements with Cat Next Generation excavators. The company said this strategy should ensure readily-available components for the forest machine. “Using Cat long-life fuel and hydraulic oil filters with extended and synchronised service intervals also helps lower maintenance expenses,” Caterpillar added.

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