Caterpillar has launched three new next-generation excavators in the 20-tonne size class that it says increase operating efficiency and lower fuel and maintenance costs.
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The three new models – the 320, 320 GC and 323 – have a suite of purpose-built features designed to keep the machines performing within customers’ productivity and cost targets.
“We have equipped our next generation of excavators with revolutionary technology to optimise our customers’ jobsites and maximise the value we provide them,” Caterpillar Australia and New Zealand regional sales manager Ranil Tennakoon says.
“Through our consistent investment in product development, we have managed to improve operator efficiency, and reduce fuel consumption and maintenance costs significantly.”
The Cat 320 and 323 have been designed for medium-heavy duties and are equipped with Cat Connect Technology, which the company says can improve operating efficiency by up to 45 per cent by using automated grade controls. The Cat Grade with 2D system alerts operators when they’ve reached their desired depth, slope and horizontal distance, ensuring accurate work the first time.
The Cat 320 GC is the smallest of the new line-up and is engineered for low to medium duties. The GC is intended as a reliable, low-cost-per-hour unit.
Cat says it has greatly improved fuel consumption across all three models with its next-generation engines. The new engines consume 20 to 25 per cent less fuel than the models they replace, and an automated ‘smart mode’ matches engine and hydraulic power to digging conditions.
Maintenance costs have also been reduced for the next-gen machines, with the hydraulic return filter, air filter and fuel tank cap filter all given upgrades to extend their service lives by between 50 and 100 per cent over previous designs.
The next-gen ROPS/FOPS Cat cabs are all equipped with standard features such as keyless push-button start, large 8-inch and 10-inch touchscreen monitors, and programmable joystick controls. The redesigned viscous mounting of the cab reduces vibration by up to 50 per cent over previous models.