Caterpillar has launched the Cat 301 Compact Radius (CR) micro hydraulic excavator, a one-tonne-class machine designed for contractors working in confined spaces such as indoor demolition, agriculture and landscaping.
The 301 CR can pass through doorways measuring 30 by 78 inches (762 by 1,981 mm), while its compact-radius design reduces machine overhang for operation in tight spaces. Its expandable undercarriage improves stability and lift capacity compared with the Cat 300.9D it replaces.
With the undercarriage fully extended, the 301 CR is 26 per cent wider than the 300.9D and offers more than 80 per cent greater lift capacity. Caterpillar says the model was developed in response to customer demand for a compact excavator that is simple and comfortable to operate while providing the stability needed for heavy lifting.
Operator features
The excavator includes a simplified gauge cluster, side-mounted joystick controls and an expandable blade and undercarriage for access to restricted areas. Its compact radius limits the machine’s footprint, while travel speed is double that of the 300.9D.
A closed-loop swing system is designed to deliver faster cycle times, improved energy efficiency and lower heat generation than the previous model. Other features include an optional second auxiliary hydraulics circuit, a standard LED boom work light for use when working at night or inside buildings, a tilt-up seat for service access, and a foldable Roll Over Protection Structure (ROPS) that reduces height for travel through restricted openings.
Performance
The 301 CR has a maximum operating weight of 2,712 lb (1,230 kg) and a folded ROPS height of less than 72 inches (1,829 mm), to ease transport. Its track width extends from 28.7 to 43.3 inches (730 to 1,100 mm) for added stability.
Key performance specifications include:
• Top travel speed of up to 2.2 mph
(3.6 km/h);
• Stick force of 1,394 lb (6.2 kN), 38
per cent higher than the 300.9D;
• Bucket force of 2,158 lb (9.6 kN), eight per cent higher than the 300.9D.
• Maximum lift capacity of 868 lb (394 kg)
at a 3-ft (0.91-m) height and 6-ft
(1.83-m) forward radius.
• VisionLink connectivity providing
owner-operators with operating-hours and location data.
The 301 CR proves its versatility in landscaping works.
Attachments
Caterpillar says the 301 CR can be configured with a range of purpose-built attachments to support changing jobsite requirements. A Pin Puller Coupler enables tool-free attachment changes, reducing downtime and allowing operators to efficiently move between tasks.
Compatible attachments include the A13 auger, which features a cast drive-unit housing and slim drive design, as well as flights 12 inches (305 mm) shorter than comparable models; the B1 pin-on hammer for breaking concrete and asphalt; and redesigned general-purpose buckets with a smooth edge, wide profile and three bolt-on teeth. Ditch-cleaning buckets incl drain holes for handling cohesive, wet material.
The 301 CR is compatible with the B1 pin-on hammer for quickly breaking up concrete and asphalt. n