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 of capacity for higher productivity.
This month, Caterpillar has released its new 350 excavator in Europe, Australia and New Zealand. According to the company, the new 350 excavator consumes up to 13 per cent less fuel than the Cat 349.
This in turn helps to lower costs, reduce carbon dioxide emissions, and operate more sustainably.
The excavator features three power mode options – Smart, Power, and Eco – to match the excavator to the job to further reduce fuel consumption.
“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.”
Powered up
The new 350 can be equipped with buckets with up to 3.2 cubic metres of capacity. The excavator has has a maximum reach of 12 metres at ground level and a max loading height of 7.4 metres. Cat reports maximum digging depth of 8.2 metres.
Powered by a Cat C9.3B engine, the excavator offers three power modes to further reduce fuel consumption. Engine oil and fuel filters are synchronised for service at 1,000 hours, increasing uptime and reducing parts and labor costs. Cat says the hydraulic oil filter offers a 3,000-hour replacement interval, an increase of 50 per cent over the previous design.
With a high-ambient temperature capability of 52 degrees Celsius and cold-start function with auto hydraulic warmup feature at -18˚C, the 350 can work in various climates. An optional cold-start function allows the 350 to operate at -32˚C.
Tech in
Overall, the new 350 comes with a host of standard Cat technologies. Cat Payload delivers precise load targets and increased loading efficiency, helping prevent truck over- or under-loading. Data can be reported through a VisionLink connection or by download to a USB drive.
Cat says the optional Cat Stick Steer makes travel and turning easier. For truck loading and trenching, Swing Assist automatically stops excavator swing at operator-defined set points.
With the standard Cat Grade 2D system comes guidance for depth, slope and horizontal distance to grade through the standard touchscreen monitor. Standard Grade Assist automates boom, stick and bucket movements so operators can stay on grade with single lever digging, the company says. That system is readily upgradable to Cat Grade with Advanced 2D or Cat Grade with 3D via a second touchscreen monitor.
All Cat Grade systems are compatible with radios and base stations from top third-party technology suppliers. Operators can store up to four depth and slope offsets to cut to grade without a grade checker.
The 350 also has an auto hydraulic-hammer stop, warning operators after 15 seconds of continuous firing and then shutting 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 eight per cent, and Cat Lift Assist helps operators avoid tipping the machine while picking up heavy objects with visual and auditory alerts to indicate if the load is within the machine’s limits.
Smooth ride
The deluxe cab features large windows for high visibility, an automatic climate control and a heated seat. The left seat console tilts up for easier cab entry and exit.
Standard features include keyless push-button start and touchscreen monitor with jog dial keys for machine control. A Bluetooth key fob is available. An Operator ID passcode allows for engine starting, and Operator ID can save and restore joystick button, response and pattern preferences for individual operators.
Also, Cat’s Product Link collects telematics data and provides operational information to the fleet manager and operator while allowing for remote troubleshooting, flash updating and more.
Quick Specs
- Engine: Cat C9.3B
- Net power: 308kW (413 hp)
- Operating weight: 47,700kg.
- Max. digging depth: 8.21m
- Max. reach at ground line: 12.15m
- Max loading height: 7.39m