Caterpillar introduce new 350 excavator
New hydraulic excavator delivers class-leading productivity with enhanced economy and sustainability
WEIGHING 47.7 tonnes and featuring powerful digging force and strong swing torque, the new fixed-gauge Cat 350 excavator can be equipped with large buckets up to 3.2 cubic metres (4.2 cubic yards) for class-leading productivity, yet consumes up to 13% less fuel than the Cat 349, to lower costs, reduce CO2 emissions, and operate more sustainably.
Moreover, three power mode options – Smart, Power, and Eco – match the excavator to the task at hand to further reduce fuel consumption.
‘We are committed to reducing greenhouse gas emissions while helping our customers meet their climate-related objectives,’ commented Brian Abbott, Caterpillar’s global product manager for large hydraulic excavators. ‘The 350 is our latest example of delivering on that commitment.’
Cat Payload onboard weighing gives real-time weight estimates to achieve precise load targets and improve efficiency. When combined with VisionLink, Payload offers remote managing of production targets. Alternatively, the monitor’s USB port allows fleet managers to download up to 30 days of work for progress management without an Internet connection or VisionLink subscription.
For truck loading applications, Swing Assist automatically stops excavator swing at operator-defined setpoints to consume less fuel. Lift Assist helps to avoid machine tipping by letting the operator know the load is within safe working range limits. To safely work around obstructions, 2D E-Fence prevents the excavator from moving outside of operator-defined set points.
The 308kW (413hp) Cat C9.3B engine has more than 14 million hours of service to attest to its long-term reliability. Synchronized 1,000h oil and fuel filter service intervals reduce downtime, whilst the hydraulic oil filter offers a 3,000h replacement interval – an increase of 50% over the previous design – and provides improved filtration performance.
The 350 features standard high-ambient temperature capability of 52C and cold-start capability at –18C, with optional cold-start capability at –32C. Automatic hydraulic warm-up in cold temperatures gets the machine to work faster and prolongs the life of machine components. A double-element air intake filter with pre-cleaner features high dust capacity, and the machine’s high-efficiency hydraulic fan offers an optional automatic reverse function to keep cores free from debris.
Product Link collects data automatically and gives fleet managers critical operating information such as location, hours, fuel usage, idle time, maintenance alerts, diagnostic codes, and machine health online through web and mobile applications. Maximizing machine uptime, remote troubleshoot and remote flash allow dealers to remotely connect with the machine to diagnose fault codes and update operating software. Operators can easily track filter life and maintenance intervals through the touchscreen monitor.
The new 350 features easy 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. Its large, high-resolution touchscreen monitor with jog dial offers quick navigation through machine controls and provides quick access to the machine’s digital operator’s manual.
When cutting through tough material, standard auto dig boost delivers an automatic 8% power increase for better bucket penetration, shorter cycle times, and greater payloads, whilst auto heavy lift offers an 8% increase in lifting power when needed for as long as needed.
At the touch of a button, operators can switch to the optional Cat Stick Steer for simple one-hand operation of travel and turning. Preventing wear and tear on the excavator and attachment, standard auto hammer stop warns operators after 15s of continuous firing and then shuts off the hammer after 30s.
Offering a choice between deluxe and premium cabs, both designs feature automatic climate control and a tilt-up left seat console for easy entry and exit. The deluxe cab comes as standard with a heated seat, while the premium trim has a heated and ventilated seat.
With all controls ergonomically positioned in front of the operator, the layout helps to reduce fatigue and straining movements. Large cab windows, along with a lower front, right, and rear machine profile, offer superior visibility of the work area without straining.
