CATERPILLAR has announced that the new fixed-gauge Cat 350 digger can be equipped with large buckets up to 3.2 m3 for ‘class-leading’ productivity.
The manufacturer added that there are also sustainability benefits as the excavator consumes up to 13% less fuel than the Cat 349. Three power mode options are available: Smart, Power and Eco to match the machine to the job.
“Caterpillar is committed to reducing greenhouse gas emissions while helping our customers meet their climate-related objectives,” said Brian Abbott, Caterpillar global product manager for large hydraulic excavators. “The 350 is our latest example of delivering on that commitment.”
The new excavator’s standard Cat 2D Grade system indicates depth and slope on the monitor, with alerts to increase efficiency. Grade Assist helps operators to stay on grade with single-lever digging.
For truck loading and trenching tasks, Swing Assist automatically stops excavator swing at operator-defined set points to consume less fuel. Lift Assist helps to avoid machine tipping by letting operators know the load is within safe working range limits. To safely work around obstructions, 2D E-Fence prevents the machine from moving outside of operator-defined set points.
Cat Payload onboard weighing provides real-time weight estimates to achieve precise load targets, the firm added. When combined with VisionLink, Payload offers remote managing of production targets. Alternatively, a USB port allows fleet managers to download up to 30 days of work for progress management without an internet connection or VisionLink subscription.
In-cab grade technology upgrades include Cat Grade with Advanced 2D for creating and editing grade designs via a second touchscreen monitor and Cat Grade with 3D to create and edit designs on that second monitor plus see the front linkage’s full range of motion.
Powered by a Cat C9.3B engine, the excavator has synchronised 1,000-hour oil and fuel filter service intervals. The hydraulic oil filter offers a 3,000-hour replacement interval – an increase of 50% over the previous design.
Cat added that the 350 can work at up to 4,500m above sea level. It features standard high-ambient temperature capability of 52˚C, cold-start capability at -18˚C with optional cold-start capability at -32 C.
Automatic hydraulic warm-up in cold temperatures is said to get the machine to work faster and prolong the life of components. A double element air intake filter with pre-cleaner features high dust capacity, and the machine’s hydraulic fan offers an optional automatic reverse function to keep cores free from debris.
The 350 features keyless starting via a push button, Operator ID passcode, or Bluetooth key fob. Operators can programme each joystick button to preference – including power mode, response, and pattern – using the unique Operator ID, and the machine will recall individual preferences based on the ID.
Offering a choice between deluxe and premium cabs, both designs feature automatic climate control and a tilt-up left seat console. The deluxe cab comes standard with a heated seat, while the premium trim has a heated and ventilated seat. Large cab windows, along with a lower front, right, and rear machine profile, are said to offer ‘outstanding visibility’ of the work area without straining.
