NEW EQUIPMENT NEWS
The Cat range of Next Generation mini
hydraulic excavators has been expanded
with the addition of two new models in
the 7-to-10-ton category.
As with all Cat Next Generation mini
excavators, the new models feature
heavy-duty main structures, fuel-efficient
engines, load-sensing hydraulics,
spacious cabs, and the exclusive
Caterpillar stick steer system. The
overall design goal for Next Generation
models is to ensure optimum value for
the customer in terms of performance,
operator experience, serviceability, and
affordability.
The new 307.5 weighs from
7 532kg to 8 233kg depending upon
configuration; it is a standard tail swing
model with a fixed boom, powered
by a Cat C2.4 turbo diesel engine
rated at 41.7 net kW (55.9 net h.p.). It
can be ordered with a standard stick
delivering a 4 107mm dig depth or a
long stick that increases the depth by
approximately 560mm.
Also new to the range is a 310,
weighing between 9 601kg and 10
182kg, and featuring a fixed boom,
standard tail swing, and twin blade
cylinders for handling heavy-duty
dozing chores.
This machine uses the Cat C3.3
diesel engine rated at 52.4 net kW (70.3
net h.p.) and has a dig depth of
5 174mm.
Operator environment
The focus is on operator comfort,
convenience, and safety. The 307.5 and
310 are fitted with cabs, sealed and
pressurised, and feature a redesigned
heating/ventilating/air-conditioning
system that ensures all-weather climate
control. Suspension seats, with a
retractable, wide seatbelt, are standard,
and the operating consoles feature
adjustable wrist rests. In-cab sound
levels are 72dB(A).
Intuitive controls include the Next
Generation LCD monitor that provides
easy-to-read machine information and
features a jog-dial for easy navigation,
including setting personal operating
preferences. For added convenience, a
standard control-pattern changer allows
operators to adapt the machine quickly
to their favoured joystick movement. A
machine security system is standard,
available as key with pass code or push-
to-start with fob. The machine can also
be Bluetooth enabled through the radio.
12
APRIL 2019
Caterpillar expands Next Generation mini excavator range
The new Cat 307.5 Next Generation mini excavator.
The large front window slides upward
and stores conveniently overhead, and
expansive glass areas on the sides and
rear of the cab, plus a skylight, provide
all-around visibility. A rear-view camera
can be integrated into the monitor.
An exclusive feature for new Next
Generation models is the standard Cat
stick steer system, which allows the
operator to switch (with the touch of a
button) from conventional lever/foot-pedal
steering controls to low-effort joystick
control. Automatic two-speed travel is
standard, as is a cruise control system
that further simplifies machine travel.
The cab’s protective structures
— ROPS (ISO 12117-2:2008), TOPS
(ISO 12117:1997), and top guard (ISO
10262:1998 Level II) — are designed to
promote a safe working environment for
the operator, and controls are protected
via a hydraulic lock-out. Halogen boom
lights help illuminate the work area, and
optional LED lights, front and rear, help
to further enhance visibility. The easy-
to-transport Next Generation models
also feature tie-down points on the track
frames to facilitate securing the machine.
Premium performance
The new Next Generation mini
excavators use an efficient, fuel-saving,
load-sensing hydraulic system with
an electronically controlled variable-
displacement piston pump, capable of
oil flows up to 167ℓ/min. (44gpm) in
the 307.5, and 233ℓ/min. (62gpm) in
the 310 model. Generous flow rates,
coupled with high main-relief pressures,
provide the new models with the
hydraulic capacity to generate increased
travel performance, and higher digging
and lifting forces, as well as to handle
powered attachments.
For added versatility, the standard
auxiliary hydraulic system (complete
with quick-disconnect lines) provides
one-way, two-way, and continuous
flow. Manual and hydraulic couplers
are available, and the new models are
available with a thumb-ready package
and a certified lifting eye. Front-shovel
operation, a capability that lends an
extra measure of precision when digging
around utilities, can be accomplished
with both pin-on and coupler-mounted
buckets.
The 307.5 comes equipped with a
standard undercarriage length of
2 880mm, and the 310 is equipped
with a long undercarriage (3 301mm),
designed for added stability.
A dozer blade further expands the
capability of the new models, allowing
the machine to handle backfilling and
grading tasks. The blade features ample
travel, above and below ground, and has
a float function. Major structures for the
Next Generation mini machines — upper
and lower frames, track frames, boom,
and stick — are patterned after their
larger Cat excavator counterparts and
designed for long-term durability.
Routine maintenance checkpoints
are accessible at ground level through
the side doors, and the battery is
maintenance-free. Side panels are flat
and recessed to protect them from
damage and have been designed for
easy replacement.
www.plantonline.co.za