CATERPILLAR says its new Cat 329D2 excavator has been designed to offer a powerful performance, with low fuel consumption and superior reliability, delivering high productivity, versatility and low operating costs.

Premium features on the machine include cross-sensing hydraulics for greater efficiency, robust major structures for long-term durability, an ergonomic cab for increased productivity, and simplified routine maintenance for reduced owning and operating costs.

The 329D2 has a maximum operating weight of 30,115 kg and a net power rating of 151 kW. Its Cat C7.1 engine meets exhaust emissions equivalent to US EPA Tier 2, EU Stage II, and China Tier 2 regulations and is equipped with a three-stage fuel-filtration system for optimum protection of fuel-delivery components.

A spokesman for the leading construction and mining equipment manufacturer says the design of the Cat C7.1 engine has been field proven with a worldwide reputation for powerful, reliable performance.

“An advanced fuel-filtration system makes the engine less sensitive to low quality fuel, and the radial-sealed air filter features a double-layered filter core for maximum filtration capability. An automatic engine-speed control system reduces rpm (revolutions per minute) during no-load/light-load conditions for added fuel savings, and the ‘high horsepower’ mode delivers maximum power for demanding tasks,” he explains.

The 329D2 has a powerful pilot-operated hydraulic system with two main pumps that have a cross-sensing system to utilise 100 per cent of engine power for maximum hydraulic efficiency.

Regeneration valves in the boom-down and stick-in circuits speed cycles reduce hydraulic flow requirements, conserve fuel and reduce operating costs; while cylinder snubbers cushion shock in the boom and stick circuits to protect hydraulic components and increase operator comfort.

Depending on the region, the excavator comes with a standard undercarriage (329D2), or a long undercarriage (329D2 L). Both undercarriage configurations feature heavy-duty components, with lubricated/sealed track rollers and grease-lubricated/sealed track chains. A 5.9-tonne counterweight package is designed to enhance heavy-lifting performance with the long undercarriage; counterweights are bolted directly to the main frame for added rigidity.

The 329D2/D2 L can be fitted with one of four front-linkage configurations to accommodate the application. The standard 6.15-m reach boom handles most digging and lifting applications, and the heavy-duty 6.15-m reach boom is reinforced and intended for use in severe applications. Both booms have two stick options – the 3.2-m and 2.65-m reach sticks. A mass-excavation 5.55-m boom with its 2.5-m stick delivers superior digging forces and permits the use of a larger bucket. In addition, a Super Long Reach front linkage features a 10.2-m boom and 7.85-m stick. All booms and sticks use box-section construction with high tensile strength steel to provide optimum digging forces.

Cat buckets for the 329D2 are designed to match machine capabilities, ensuring high production and reduced fuel consumption. Buckets include: general-duty for low-impact, moderately abrasive materials; heavy-duty for mixed materials and cohesive soils; severe-duty for highly abrasive materials; and extreme-duty for exceptionally abrasive conditions.

In the non-ROPS (roll over protection system) cab, operators can adjust the right and left joystick consoles. A high-resolution LCD (liquid crystal display) monitor, 40 per cent larger than on previous models, is programmable in 42 languages and alerts the operator to abnormal temperatures and pressures. The monitor also serves as the display for an available rear-view camera system. Large glass areas enhance all-around visibility, and automatic bi-level air-conditioning and fully adjustable mechanical or suspension seats provide optimum operator comfort, says the spokesman.

Service doors on the upper structure provide easy, ground-level access to the main pumps, pilot filter, water-separator/fuel-filter, radiator, oil coolers, charge-air cooler and fuel cooler.

For added customer value, the 329D2 can incorporate Cat Connect technologies, including Product Link, which provides essential machine operation information through the VisionLink software.

Brooms

Among other innovations, Caterpillar has also unveiled three newly designed Cat C-Series brooms – the BP115C and BP118C pickup models, and the BA118C angle model – that incorporate features that significantly enhance their performance and serviceability.

“For use with Cat skid-steer loaders, compact track loaders, multi-terrain loaders, and compact wheel loaders, the new brooms convert the carrier unit into a versatile, effective cleaning machine for removing dirt, rock, assorted debris, and snow from large exterior and interior surfaces,” says the spokesman.

The new BP115C and BP118C pickup models have sweeping widths of 60 and 72 inches, respectively. A new gutter brush features heavy-duty mounts and pivot joints, and the new bristle-height-adjustment lever is redesigned for easier use.

The quick-change main brush is now retained with a single pin (versus four bolts) making replacement easier. Among other features, the new motor bracket is handle-shaped, visibility to the drive is enhanced, and the core connection is closer to the broom wall to facilitate installation.

The bucket for the new pickup models is reinforced for greater durability, and the adjustable volumiser feature allows greater retention of debris in the hopper for fewer emptying stops.