New Cat for Europe

Caterpillar has introduced the 53.3 tonne 352F hydraulic excavator powered by a 317 kW (425 hp) Cat C13 ACERT diesel that meets the Stage IV engine emission requirements to the European market region. The machine features heavy-duty main structures for long-term durability, a spacious operator’s station, simple routine maintenance and fuel-saving systems that reduce operating costs in a range of applications, including quarry, road-building, and heavy earthmoving.

The new machine features several fuel-saving features, including three power modes – high, standard and economy, that allow the operator to select an engine speed to match the application. In addition, an automatic engine-speed control adjusts engine rpm to match the machine's operating load and an idle shutdown system stops the engine after a pre-set idling interval. These systems not only save fuel, but also reduce emissions and extend service intervals.

The 352F’s hydraulic system is designed with major components in close proximity - an arrangement that allows shorter connecting tubes and hoses to reduce frictional losses and pressure reductions, resulting in reduced loading on the system for added fuel savings. The main control valve is designed to respond proportionally to control-lever movement for precise controllability of hydraulic functions. In addition, electrically controlled regeneration circuits for the boom and stick cylinders reduce the volume of oil required from the main pumps, thus reducing engine load, saving fuel and further enhancing controllability, says the company. Available couplers and auxiliary hydraulic circuits expand the capability of the 352F by equipping it to handle an extensive range of Cat work tools—including buckets, hammers, grapples, shears, multi-processors, and rippers.