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01 March 2013
CATERPILLAR has rolled out two new models in its line-up of hydraulic excavators – the Cat 312D/D and 318D L Series 2 – which boast a number of features such as a durable design, enhanced operator comfort levels, easy serviceability and optimum performance.
• dels feature a powerful Cat 305
• dels feature a powerful Cat 305
• dels feature a powerful Cat 305
Both the new models feature a powerful Cat 3054C diesel engine that meets US EPA Tier 2 and EU Stage II emissions regulations and ground-level service access.
The Cat 312D/D Series 2 excavator is available in standard and/or long undercarriage configurations, depending on the regional offering. It has operating weights ranging from 12,900 kg to 13,900 kg.
“The 312D/D L Series 2 is designed with low operating costs and achieves excellent performance in the toughest applications, providing customers a durable, reliable machine that is exceptionally comfortable to operate and easy to service,” says a company spokesman.
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The 318D L Series 2 ... powerful hydraulic system. |
The Cat 3054C engine features a reliable mechanical governor and a low-pressure fuel system to ensure durable, trouble-free operation and high fuel efficiency in all operating conditions.
With a net power rating of 67 kW (90 hp), the 312D/D L Series 2 also features an economy mode, allowing the operator to balance performance and fuel economy requirements without a loss of breakout forces and lift capacity.
The versatile hydraulic system delivers a maximum implement flow of 254 litres per minute (67 gpm) at 30,500 kPa (4,420 psi), providing ample hydraulic horsepower to handle a wide range of buckets, quick couplers and hydro-mechanical work tools, including shears, breakers, and grapples. Full power is available constantly (no work- or power-mode switches are required), and an automatic system selects boom or swing priority, based on joystick movement, to best suit the application.
Hydraulic and electrical lines are routed to the boom for easy installation of auxiliary circuits, and a number of Cat hydraulic kits are available to integrate work tools. The optional wedge lock coupler features a wedge-style locking system and is designed for severe applications, including demolition and quarrying. The available Centre-Lock pin grabber coupler features a patent-pending locking system that clearly indicates to the operator if the tool is engaged or disengaged.
“Both of these options extend the versatility of your machine by allowing work tools to be changed quickly and easily,” the spokesman points out.
Depending on the regional offering, the 312D/D L Series 2 can be made available with a one-piece reach boom and a choice of sticks, 2.5 m and 3 m, providing maximum dig depths of 5.54 m and 6.04 m, respectively. These stick options allow the operator to balance his needs between working range and digging forces. This new model features an undercarriage design with a greased, lubricated track for quiet, durable performance.
For the operator’s comfort and convenience, the operator station for the unit features low-effort, pilot-controlled joysticks, a suspension seat, standard air-conditioning, and a LCD monitor that can display information in 27 languages.
The cab features viscous rubber mounts to reduce noise and vibration, and integral to the design of the new 312D/D L Series 2 is simplified routine maintenance. Most service points are located within reach from ground level, and a right-side service door permits easy access to the pump, pilot filter, engine-oil filter, SOS (scheduled oil sampling) ports, and diagnostic pressure taps. A convenient left-side door provides access to the radiator, oil cooler, fuel filters, and water separator.
318D L Series 2
Meanwhile, the 318D L Series 2 hydraulic excavator features a powerful hydraulic system and world-class comfort levels with a highly efficient hydraulic system and exceptionally robust major structures to provide a durable, easy-to-service machine that delivers high production with low fuel consumption.
With a net power rating of 82 kW (110 hp) and operating weights to 17,300 kg, the new model provides a choice of a boom and two sticks to best fit its application. A designed cab provides a high level of comfort, visibility and operating ease.
“The 318D L Series 2 consumes an estimated three per cent less fuel than its predecessor,” says the spokesman. “Fuel system reliability is further enhanced by dual filtration, including water separation in the primary filter. The engine’s economy mode balances performance and fuel economy to provide fuel savings, while maintaining high breakout forces and lift capacities.”
A new compact design for the hydraulic system results in more efficient use of power by incorporating shorter hoses and tubes to reduce friction and pressure drop. The Caterpillar-designed system employs two pumps in all operating situations, resulting in enhanced productivity and faster implement speeds. An automatic boom-/swing-priority system selects the most efficient mode of operation, based on joystick movement, and eliminates the need for operator-selected work/power modes.
“Caterpillar has used advanced engineering techniques to develop exceptionally durable structural components for the 318D L Series 2. More than 70 per cent of structural welds are robotic and achieve deeper penetration than manual welds for increased strength and durability. Robustly constructed track roller frames and a grease-lubricated track ensure long undercarriage life,” the spokesman points out.
To enhance overall productivity in specific applications, a reach boom is available for the 318D L Series 2. Also available are two reach sticks that use added reinforcement for reliable performance. For added versatility, the 318D L Series 2 can use either of two couplers: the CW for severe application and the Center-Lock pin grabber. Available hydraulic kits for field installation facilitate adapting work tools to the machine.
The new machine’s operator station is spacious, quiet and comfortable, equipped with air-conditioning, suspension seat, low-effort joysticks and a large LCD monitor in 27 languages. The cab is attached with viscous rubber mounts to reduce vibration and noise, and large glass areas provide excellent, all-around visibility.
The 318D L Series 2 is also equipped with SOS ports and hydraulic test ports, and a connection for the Cat Electronic Technician service tool is easily accessible behind the cab. Most routine service points are accessible from ground level, and a right-side service door allows servicing the machine’s filters. Hydraulic filter changes are extended to 2,000 hours, and the air-cleaner’s double-element design provides superior cleaning efficiency.
