963C Track-Type Loader Caterpillar

The operator Equivalent Sound Pressure Level (Leq) is 81 dB(A) when "ANSI/SAE J1166 OCT 98" is used to measure the value for an enclosed cab. This is a work cycle sound exposure level. The cab was properly installed and maintained. The test was conducted with the cab doors and the cab windows closed.

Hearing protection may be needed when the machine is operated with an open operator station for extended periods or in a noisy environment. Hearing protection may be needed when the machine is operated with a cab that is not properly maintained or when the doors and windows are open for extended periods or in a noisy environment.

The average exterior sound pressure level is 78 dB(A) when the "SAE J88 Jun 86" procedure is used to measure the value for the standard machine. The measurement was conducted under the following conditions: distance of 15 m (49.2 ft) and “the machine moving forward in an intermediate gear ratio”.

Sound Level Information for Machines in European Union Countries and in Countries that Adopt the "EU Directives"

The dynamic operator sound pressure level is 79 dB(A) when "ISO 6396:1992" is used to measure the value for an enclosed cab. The cab was properly installed and maintained. The test was conducted with the cab doors and the cab windows closed.

"The European Union Physical Agents (Vibration) Directive 2002/44/EC"

Vibration Data for Track Loaders

Information Concerning Hand/Arm Vibration Level

When the machine is operated according to the intended use, the hand/arm vibration of this machine is below 2.5 meter per second squared.

Information Concerning Whole Body Vibration Level

This section provides vibration data and a method for estimating the vibration level for track loaders.

Note: Vibration levels are influenced by many different parameters. Many items are listed below.

• Operator training, behavior, mode and stress

• Job site organization, preparation, environment, weather and material

• Machine type, quality of the seat, quality of the suspension system, attachments and condition of the equipment

It is not possible to get precise vibration levels for this machine. The expected vibration levels can be estimated with the information in Table 1 in order to calculate the daily vibration exposure. A simple evaluation of the machine application can be used.

Estimate the vibration levels for the three vibration directions. For typical operating conditions, use the average vibration levels as the estimated level. With an experienced operator and smooth terrain, subtract the Scenario Factors from the average vibration level in order to obtain the estimated vibration level. For aggressive operations and severe terrain, add the Scenario Factors to the average vibration level in order to obtain the estimated vibration level.

Note: All vibration levels are in meter per second squared.

Table 1

"ISO Reference Table A - Equivalent vibration levels of whole body vibration emission for earthmoving equipment."
Machine Type		Typical Operating Activity		Vibration Levels			Scenario Factors
				X axis	Y axis	Z axis	X axis	Y axis	Z axis
Track Loader		load and carry motion		0,89	0,67	0,52	0,12	0,16	0,10
Track Loader		transfer		0,58	0,49	0,60	0,18	0,12	0,15
Track Loader		V-shape motion		1,24	0,93	0,63	0,41	0,35	0,18

Note: Refer to "ISO/TR 25398 Mechanical Vibration - Guideline for the assessment of exposure to whole body vibration of ride on operated earthmoving machines" for more information about vibration. This publication uses data that is measured by international institutes, organizations and manufacturers. This document provides information about the whole body exposure of operators of earthmoving equipment. Refer to Operation and Maintenance Manual, SEBU8257, "The European Union Physical Agents (Vibration) Directive 2002/44/EC" for more information about machine vibration levels.

The Caterpillar suspension seat meets the criteria of "ISO 7096". This represents vertical vibration level under severe operating conditions.

Guidelines for Reducing Vibration Levels on Earthmoving Equipment

Properly adjust machines. Properly maintain machines. Operate machines smoothly. Maintain the conditions of the terrain. The following guidelines can help reduce the whole body vibration level:

1. Use the right type and size of machine, equipment, and attachments.

2. Maintain machines according to the manufacturer's recommendations.

   1. Tire pressures

   2. Brake and steering systems

   3. Controls, hydraulic system and linkages

3. Keep the terrain in good condition.

   1. Remove any large rocks or obstacles.

   2. Fill any ditches and holes.

   3. Provide machines and schedule time in order to maintain the conditions of the terrain.

4. Use a seat that meets "ISO 7096". Keep the seat maintained and adjusted.

   1. Adjust the seat and suspension for the weight and the size of the operator.

   2. Inspect and maintain the seat suspension and adjustment mechanisms.

5. Perform the following operations smoothly.

   1. Steer

   2. Brake

   3. Accelerate.

   4. Shift the gears.

6. Move the attachments smoothly.

7. Adjust the machine speed and the route in order to minimize the vibration level.

   1. Drive around obstacles and rough terrain.

   2. Slow down when it is necessary to go over rough terrain.

8. Minimize vibrations for a long work cycle or a long travel distance.

   1. Use machines that are equipped with suspension systems.

   2. Use the ride control system on track loaders.

   3. If no ride control system is available, reduce speed in order to prevent bounce.

   4. Haul the machines between workplaces.

9. Less operator comfort may be caused by other risk factors. The following guidelines can be effective in order to provide better operator comfort:

   1. Adjust the seat and adjust the controls in order to achieve good posture.

   2. Adjust the mirrors in order to minimize twisted posture.

   3. Provide breaks in order to reduce long periods of sitting.

   4. Avoid jumping from the cab.

   5. Minimize repeated handling of loads and lifting of loads.

   6. Minimize any shocks and impacts during sports and leisure activities.

Sources

The vibration information and calculation procedure is based on "ISO/TR 25398 Mechanical Vibration - Guideline for the assessment of exposure to whole body vibration of ride on operated earthmoving machines". Harmonized data is measured by international institutes, organizations and manufacturers.

This literature provides information about assessing the whole body vibration exposure of operators of earthmoving equipment. The method is based on measured vibration emission under real working conditions for all machines.

You should check the original directive. This document summarizes part of the content of the applicable law. This document is not meant to substitute the original sources. Other parts of these documents are based on information from the United Kingdom Health and Safety Executive.

Refer to Operation and Maintenance Manual, SEBU8257, "The European Union Physical Agents (Vibration) Directive 2002/44/EC" for more information about vibration.

Consult your local Caterpillar dealer for more information about machine features that minimize vibration levels. Consult your local Caterpillar dealer about safe machine operation.

Use the following web site in order to find your local dealer:

Caterpillar, Inc.
www.cat.com

Cab Internal Clearance

If a machine is equipped with a cab, the position of the operator conforms to industry standards. These standards are "SAE J154" and "ISO 3411". An item should not protrude into the space of the cab. The following items should not protrude into the cab.

• Radio

• Fire extinguisher

• Lunch box

Objects in the cab should be secured. The objects must remain in place during operations in rough terrain. The objects must remain in place during a rollover of the machine.