Complete with its high-performance powertrain and closed-loop hydraulics, the Cat D1 Mulcher is designed to optimize performance when clearing a mix of small- to medium-diameter materials. The Mulcher clears a 72-in. wide strip on each pass, making it ideal for right-of-way construction and maintenance, site development, tree management, and firebreak clearing. 

The new mulcher is powered by the 104-hp Cat C3.6 Diesel Engine meeting U.S. EPA Tier 4 Final emission standards. An alternate emissions package for the C3.6 is available to meet Tier 3-equivalent standards. The machine’s lower sloping hood line improves visibility to the mulching head, allowing the operator to better assess the jobsite from the cab. Standard auto reversing fan purges debris from the radiator and enclosures, plus the hinged grill requires no tools to access the radiator for cleaning.

It is design-matched with the rugged Cat HM518 Mulcher, and controls are mounted on the air-suspension seat, isolating machine vibration from the operator to reduce fatigue.

Featuring cladding material in high-wear areas, the HM518 Mulcher frame offers increased service life. Bolt-on wear plates deliver long wear life and can be quickly replaced. Offering a drum speed range of 2,150 to 2,450 rpm, the drum’s 38 fixed teeth feature a single-bolt carbide tooth retention design for simple replacement. Its closed-loop hydraulic circuit includes load-sensing hydraulics to prevent rotor damage when hitting an obstruction. The HM518 Mulcher has a 31-in. maximum lift height, 14.5-in. maximum tilt, and 25-degree maximum angle to either side.