The Marathon LeTourneau Co. 15 yd3, Model L-700 front-end loader was made possible by effective utilization of an existing diesel electric power system that was specifically modified to suit front-end loader requirements. The resulting unique combination of electric, hydraulic, and mechanical systems developed for this loader is discussed in this paper.
Included in this discussion are: The 700 V, 1200 A d-c propulsion system with traction control, the 300 kW a-c generator circuit with companion hydraulic pump motors, and two individual servo-controlled hydraulic systems, one 350 gpm (1324.751) for loading, the other 160 gpm (605.61) for steering.
Achievement of original project goals has been realized, thus establishing the required precedent for broad acceptance of subsequent vehicles employing the Model L-700's principles of operation.