Caterpillar has launched new hydraulic mini excavators built on the company’s Next Generation platform that introduce industry-first features for the 2.7-3.5t class machines, such as stick steer, cruise control, operator adjustable settings, and tilt-up canopy or cab as standard equipment.
A statement from the company said that the new Cat 302.7 CR, 303 CR and 303.5 CR hydraulic mini excavators boost operating efficiency, servicing ease and operator comfort. Expanded use of common parts throughout the Next Gen line plus the sturdy exterior design help reduce parts inventory investment and lower repair costs.
Daily maintenance checks are quickly made from ground level through side doors, while the tilt-up cab design offers easy access to components for servicing.
“Increased service intervals mean these excavators spend more time on the job and less time in the workshop. Combined, these features lower total ownership costs up to 5% compared to previous models,” said Cat’s statement.
Design enhancements for the new 302.7 CR, 303 CR and 303.5 CR deliver up to 10% more performance in travel and trenching. Hydraulic system upgrades improve lifting performance and cycle times, while customisable operator settings improve efficiency, Cat added.
The Cat C1.1 Turbo engine powers the 302.7 CR and 303 CR models, while the Cat C1.7 anchors the powertrain for the 303.5 CR. Both engines offer 17.6kW net power. Standard auto idle and auto engine shutdown help to conserve fuel usage at the site for more affordable operation.
According to Cat, these Next Generation hydraulic mini excavators feature a compact radius swing that reduces overhang when working to the side, allowing the machines to optimise performance in confined spaces.
Fixed undercarriage widths for the 302.7 CR, 303 CR and 303.5 CR of 1,500, 1550 and 1780mm respectively, deliver job-site accessibility and stability for lifting performance. An expandable undercarriage option for the 302.7 CR allows the operator to hydraulically retract track width to 1355mm for fitting into confined spaces and then expand width to 1780mm for superior digging and lifting stability.
Interchangeable counterweight packages enable customers to tailor machine weight to job requirements, offering the balance between low ground pressure and lifting performance.
The “light” counterweight option adds 100kg to machine weight, while the “extra” adds 250kg.
All three Next Gen models offer both standard- and long-stick configurations. Standard digging depths range from 2450-2810 mm, while the long stick configuration allows the machines to reach from 2650-3110mm depths.
The standard dozer blade further increases machine flexibility to handle backfilling and grading tasks. It features ample above- and below-grade travel and has a standard float function for easy clean-up. An angle blade option on the 303.5 CR gives further flexibility in backfilling applications for increased productivity.