Terex has launched its new TA300 articulated truck which joins the company's new product family of ADTs. Terex claims that the TA300, which replaces the TA30 model launched in 2002, is the only hauler in 30tonne market that has fully independent front suspension (IFS) as standard. The model joins the TA350 (previously TA35) and TA400 (TA40), launched in September, 2009. and the TA250 being launched in April.
The company says that the IFS system provides a smooth ride when travelling over severe terrain, making it easier to handle and increasing productivity. In addition to achieving quicker haul cycles, shock loads and vibrations are also lessened, increasing component life and enhancing operator comfort to help reduce driver fatigue.
The TA300 provides 287kW of power and 1,775Nm of torque, and this performance is coupled with the 100% differential locking action.
"The manoeuvrability and tractive effort means the truck is suited to such diverse applications as quarrying, mining, construction and road maintenance," says Terex, which produces the models at its plant in Motherwell, near Glasgow, Scotland.
The TA300's 17.5m3 capacity body can be tailored to maximise production and durability through options such as liner plates, side extensions and a tailgate. It has a maximum payload of 28 tonnes and a body dump cycle time of 20 seconds, and another feature of the model is the oil-cooled multiple-disc brakes on each axle, which Terex says provide extended brake component life, reduce service intervals and operating costs, and improve overall braking performance in comparison to traditional dry-disc brake systems (these are fitted to all Terex articulated haulers).
Service brake life is increased by the use of a Jacobs compression-release engine brake for retardation (a hydraulic transmission retarder is available as an option).
The TA300 also has a new ergonomic cab designed to provide operators comfort and control. Control positions and instrument groupings have been arranged according to operator feedback, says Terex. The cab offers reduced interior noise levels, an improved steering wheel, more effective air conditioning, a high quality sound system, and new mirrors. Maintenance has also been made simpler.
George McNeil, global product manager for Terex articulated trucks said: "Given the difficult year the construction industry has just had, the launch of the new TA300 is a positive and encouraging development for both Terex and the industry as a whole.
"Everything has been carefully considered to enhance operator comfort and help increase owners' productivity levels, from the new ergonomic cab to the oil-cooled disc brakes: it's all designed with our customers' needs in mind." Meanwhile, the Terex TA400 articulated truck, which can also work on sites ranging from sand and gravel quarries to coal mines and road construction projects, boasts a payload capacity of 38tonnes and a heaped capacity of 23.3m3. It has a maximum torque of 1,350Nm at 2,100rpm, and with six forward gears and one reverse in addition to a two-speed drop box, the TA400 can travel up to 60km/hr.
"The truck's improvements are a direct result of listening to our customers and taking on board the improvements they wanted us to make," said George McNeill.