SUPPORT 2922185 - Caterpillar

Excavator:
345C L (S/N: ESD1-UP; TDG1-UP; TAJ1-UP; S5M1-UP; PJW1-UP)
The quality of stick assemblies has been improved by reducing variation within the process. The reduction of the variation significantly improves the overall quality. The risk of premature cracking is also decreased. All operators have received updated training. The operators are following the improved factory procedures.The effectivity of these following improvements is 01November 2008. The following list summarizes the list of improvements that are now effective with current production:
The fixture for tack welds for the stick assemblies has been improved. Improvements were made to the fixture in order to decrease variation during assembly. The improved fixture provides a more consistent tack welding procedure.
The welding process of the backup strips has been improved. Specific fixtures have been procured. The fixtures make sure that the orientation of the backup strip is correct. The fixtures make sure that the backup strips are flush with the weld joint.
Tighter tolerances for the gaps in the weld joints have been established for the manufacturing process. The tighter tolerances create a more consistent gap in the weld joint. New gauges are used for the verification of the width of the gaps in the welded joints.
Finished welds are inspected for conformance.
An ultrasonic flaw detection unit is used at the critical joints on the stick assembly in order to ensure quality weld penetration. An ultrasonic flaw detection unit is also used in order to validate repairs that are made on the stick assemblies.