Caterpillar introduce new F-Series excavators
Latest Cat 374F and 390F machines designed to offer greater fuel efficiency and improved operator comfort
CATERPILLAR have launched two new hydraulic excavators – the 374F and 390F – that build on the durability, reliability, and performance of the company’s D-Series predecessors.
Reflecting Cat's F-Series design criteria, which include low-fluid consumption for minimal operating costs, optimum operator comfort, easy serviceability, and class-leading productivity, the new excavator models both feature Cat ACERT engines – a C15 in the 374F and C18 in the 390F – to meet EU Stage IV emissions legislation.
With maximum operating weights of 75,170kg and 92,020kg respectively, the 374F and 390F feature heavy-duty main structures, a choice of front linkages and work tools for optimum versatility, and available grade-control and telematics systems.
The C15 (352kW) and C18 (391kW) engines use a combination of proven emissions-control technologies, including electronic management of fuel-injection/intake-air systems and Caterpillar-designed exhaust after-treatment systems.
The 374F and 390F machines are said to be more fuel-efficient than their D-series predecessors (equipped with Stage IIIA predecessor engines), thanks to a 10% reduction in fuel consumption on the 374F, and improved productivity performances from the 390F.
Two power modes – standard or economy – allow the operator to select an engine operating speed to match the application, resulting in further fuel savings. In addition, an on-demand-power system adjusts engine speed to match the machine’s operating load, and an engine-idle-shutdown system stops the engine after it idles a pre-set interval.
For further fuel savings, electrically controlled regeneration systems in the boom and stick circuits move oil between the cylinder ends to reduce the load on the main hydraulic pumps.
The 374F and 390F are available with a range of booms and sticks fabricated with heavy, premium-steel plate and using high-strength castings and forgings in high-stress areas.
The heavy-duty reach boom and general-purpose boom selections are designed for general excavating and loading, and a mass-excavation boom delivers high production in large-scale earthmoving and heavy-material applications. A choice of sticks is available to match booms for meeting required digging depths, reaches and breakout forces.
Increased glass area in the F-Series cab has enhanced visibility for the operator, while operator sound levels have been reduced by 3dB(A). The new LCD monitor offers a larger screen with four times higher resolution with more intuitive navigation.
The excavators also feature Cat Connect which incorporates the smart use of technology and services. For example, the optional Product Link system helps fleet owners manage equipment productivity, and reduce operating costs through an online VisionLink interface by tracking critical items, such as location, hours, fuel usage, diagnostic codes, and idle time.
In addition, the F-Series excavators have optional GRADE technologies to help operators work more productively and accurately, and upgrade to 3D capability when job requirements change.
