The introduction of the 313F, 315F, 316F and 318F completes Caterpillar’s launch of its U.S. EPA Tier 4 Final/EU Stage IV 11- to 90-ton tracked excavator family. “Customers choose Cat excavators because they make more money with our products,” said Brian Abbott, worldwide product manager for Caterpillar’s small excavator platform. “We focus on understanding each customer’s unique business needs and then match the right excavator to those needs. We believe this approach maximizes value for each and every customer.”
“Our large and mid-size F Series models have been working on jobs around the world now for over a year, and our customers tell us their Cat machines are delivering on those goals,” said Abbott.
313F
The new Cat 313F complements the 313F GC introduced in 2015. Both models are built to meet customer expectations for versatility, reliability, and performance; the primary difference between the two models is the level of efficiency – the standard F will do more work per unit of fuel. “When you think of the 313F, think of reliability, durability, low cost per unit of work, proven, and highly efficient,” said Abbott. “When you think of the 313F GC, think of the same great attributes with a bit less efficiency plus a lower acquisition cost.”
315F
The new Cat 315F is a compact radius machine – perfect for space-restricted work like road jobs with lane closures and next to buildings or other structures you’d like to keep from harm's way. With a front swing radius of 2.27 m (7 feet 5 inches) and a tail swing radius of 1,530 mm (5 feet ), the machine can dig, swing and dump within a working space of 3.8 m (12 feet 5 inches). When rotated 90 degrees and working over the side, just 135 mm (5 inches) of counterweight extends beyond the track width, which allows trucks and jersey barriers to be positioned closer to the machine. Unlike a standard radius machine, the 315F’s boom is positioned toward the centre of the machine. Not only does this help reduce the front swing radius, but it also supports more lift capacity over the front due to greater stability. “Just like all F Series models, the 315F features a ROPS-certified cab,” added Abbott.
316F
The new Cat 316F, like all other F Series models, is a highly versatile machine. “It is a nice-size machine for customers who move from job to job every day,” said Abbott. “A coupler lets you change attachments quickly, and a wide range of Cat buckets let you dig everything from top soil to harsh, abrasive material to doing ditch cleaning and fine grading. Add a multi-processor or shear attachment to take on demolition jobs. Add a thumb and a rake and you have the ability to move all kinds of debris quickly and efficiently.”
318F
The 318F is competitively positioned against 18-ton models available from other manufacturers. It delivers more lift, breakout force, and production with larger bucket options than a 16-ton machine, yet it burns the same amount of fuel. “Customers who move frequently from job to job will prefer a 318 versus a 320 due to it being easier to transport,” said Abbott.
