Caterpillar introduces D-series excavators

Caterpillar has introduced four new mid-sized hydraulic excavators to launch the D-series line in Australia this month.

The 320D 324D, 325D and 330D, feature greater performance, flexibility and versatility than the C-Series machines they replace. Also, they deliver improved fuel efficiency through the use of Cat engines with ACERT technology. A new, spacious cab and new styling also set the D-Series apart.

Each of the excavators has increased hydraulic system pressure for increased breakout force and greater lift capabilities, which create faster cycle times and superior productivity. High power options are available for customers who are focused on maximising machine performance.

To enhance the operator's ability to match machine performance to job requirements and better manage operating costs, the D series offer two performance settings. There is a standard operational mode or economy mode, which will lower the raw fuel burn by more than 15% in exchange for small sacrifices in implement speeds.

Advanced engines and hydraulics

The Cat 3066 powers the 320D, the Cat C7 engine powers the 324D and 325D, and the C9 powers the 330D. The C7 and C9 engines employ ACERT technology, which combines incremental improvements in fuel delivery, air management and electronic control to optimize engine performance.

The ADEM A4 electronic control module manages fuel delivery to get the best performance per unit of fuel used. The engine management system provides flexible fuel mapping, allowing the engine to respond quickly to varying application needs. For reduced power consumption and reduced noise, the 330D L has a hydraulically-driven fan, controlled by the electronic control module. Fan speed varies depending on the demand for cooling.

The hydraulic system in each of the three new excavators, features a component layout that minimises the lengths of lines and tubes. The layout also reduces heat and sound around the cab. As with the previous models, these use a hydraulic cross sensing system that can maximise hydraulic power when needed for faster implement speeds.

Control circuits available as attachments allow easy use of high- and medium-pressure tools.

Expanded versatility, flexibility

The Ds feature a range of factory-installed auxiliary hydraulic systems, including a one-way, high pressure, high flow circuit for hammers and vibratory plate compactors. Also, a two-way circuit is available for thumbs and other hydra-mechanical work tools.

A Caterpillar exclusive, the tool control system, allows operators and technicians to set auxiliary hydraulics flows and pressures by using the monitor in the cab instead of using expensive service tools. The customer can pre-set and store flow and pressure settings for 10 different hydra-mechanical work tools.

The tool control system is available in two factory-installed configurations: as a stand-alone system or with a medium pressure circuit and third pump. The latter system handles tools that rotate such as multiprocessors or rotating grapples. It also can handle hammers, thumbs and similar tools.

An expanded line of work tools includes a wide variety of Caterpillar-designed buckets and hammers that are matched to the machine. Caterpillar's unique, hammerless retention K Series GET system, facilitates easy tip changes. Cat thumbs are available to equip a machine handling debris and other irregularly shaped material. For fast work tool changes, two different quick couplers are available—a dedicated quick coupler and the Caterpillar Quick Hitch.

A wide variety of booms and sticks equips the D-series machines for trenching, excavating or general construction. A super-long-reach boom now is available as an attachment for the 324DL and 325DL. This configuration offers reaches of more than 18m and is well suited for ditch cleaning.

New cab, operator station

The operator station of the D-series is spacious, quiet and comfortable. Seat and armrests are easy to adjust and a new, optional air suspension seat with heater is available. The fully automatic climate control adjusts temperature and air flow, and it also determines which air outlet is best in each situation.

The new monitor is a full color, video ready, LCD that can be adjusted to minimise glare and the graphical display is easier to read and navigate than the C-series monitor.

All glass is fixed directly to the cab, which eliminates window frames. Pillar-mounted wipers also increase the operator's viewing area.

More information: Cat dealer, www.cat.com