New Cat 340 hydraulic excavator
Offering increased power and stability, new 340 reaches new level of performance for best-in-class production
THE new Cat 340 hydraulic excavator features a more powerful engine, wider track, and a 7.5-tonne counterweight to increase productivity by 10% over the 2020 model year Cat 336. According to Caterpillar, its increased power and stability, combined with Next Generation electro-hydraulic system efficiency, make it the best choice in the 40-tonne class.
‘The 340 reaches a new level of performance,’ said Brian Abbott, Caterpillar global product manager for large hydraulic excavators. ‘Our additions make the machine more productive and stable with larger work tools, giving contractors more flexibility to complete a wider range of projects.’
The new excavator’s reinforced structures ensure long-term durability in harsh digging, truck loading, and hammer applications, whilst the Cat C9.3B engine’s 14 million hours of service attest to its long-term reliability.
Three engine modes match excavator power to the demands of the job while saving fuel. Power mode delivers maximum power to meet the most demanding tasks; Smart mode automatically matches engine and hydraulic power to digging conditions to lower fuel consumption; and Eco mode minimizes fuel consumption by reducing engine speed to a constant 1,500 rev/min.
Synchronized 1,000-hour oil and fuel filter service intervals reduce downtime. The extended intervals also eliminate labour cost for nine oil and fuel filter changes and parts cost for 27 oil and fuel filters over 10,000 machine operating hours, compared with many competitive 30–40-tonne excavators. The air intake filter with pre-cleaner features high dust capacity, and a high-efficiency hydraulic fan offers optional automatic reverse to keep cores free from debris.
Product Link collects data automatically, allowing operators to view 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.
From Deluxe to Premium, Next Generation cab trim level options are available. Deluxe cabs come with a heated air-suspension seat, and Premium cabs come with a heated and ventilated air-suspension seat. Both have a tilt-up left-hand console for easier access and egress.
A touchscreen monitor and jog dial offer quick navigation through machine controls and provide easy access to the machine’s digital operator’s manual. Keyless push-button start is standard, and a Bluetooth key fob is available. An Operator ID passcode allows for engine starting, and Operator ID can quickly save and restore joystick button, response, and pattern preferences for individual operators.
Optional Cat Stick Steer makes travel and turning much easier. A host of standard technologies, including Cat Payload on-board weighing, further elevate operator efficiency and machine productivity. Auto Hammer Stop warns operators after 15 seconds of continuous firing and then shuts off the hammer after 30 seconds to prevent wear and tear. Auto Dig Boost and Auto Heavy Lift increase bucket penetration and lift capacity by 8%, and Lift Assist helps operators avoid tipping the machine.
