Updates on Cat mini excavators increase speed and productivity

Caterpillar has made multiple enhancements to its Cat 303.5 CR, 305 CR, 308 CR, 309 CR, and 310 mini hydraulic excavator models. The compact radius Cat 305 CR now joins the 6- to 10-tonne class models to offer mini hydraulic excavator (MHE) ease-of-use (EOU) E-Fence and Indicate features for software-enabled attachment versions. The 305 CR now ships from the factory EOU, ready for cab and premium canopy designs, or it can be ordered from the factory already installed.  

Software upgrades on Cat's 303.5 CR mini hydraulic excavator

The next-generation compact radius Cat 303.5 CR mini hydraulic excavator features a significant software update designed to improve transient speeds up to 25 percent compared to previous 303.5 CR next-generation models.

The 303.5 CR's dynamic design with quick transient speeds helps to reposition the excavator in a shorter period, limiting the time the machine is not working. This results in contractors being up to 35 percent more productive at the job site, depending on application and conditions.

The update is compatible with all next-generation builds dating back to the first production models in 2021. The current software version is available on the excavator's operating monitor, and customers can get the latest update from their Cat dealer.

Key features of the 303.5 CR include:​

• Heavy lifting and performance
• Capable of lifting, swinging, and carrying a standard 2,450-lb (1111-kg) street plate.
• Trenching productivity and controllability of the angle blade in Stick Steer mode.
• Comfort and industry-first features
• Sealed and pressurized operating cab with adjustable operator settings.
• Exclusive Cat Stick Steer joystick control to enhance machine travel and cruise control.
• Simplified service
• Easily accessible checkpoints from ground level and a unique tilt-up cab/canopy to reach additional service areas.
• Compact radius swing
• Reduces overhang when working to the side, allowing machines to deliver high performance in confined spaces.

E-Fence features

Automatically constraining machine motion within preset boundaries, E-Fence is designed to allow operators the ability to work confidently and efficiently by avoiding structures overhead, underground, in front, or to the left or right of the excavator.

• Ceiling - Helps operators avoid overhead obstacles, such as power lines, ceilings, or tree limbs.
• Floor - Defined depth limits help protect underground fibre optic cables and utilities.
• Wall - Operating limits protect structures in front of the excavator.
• Swing - Ideal for avoiding swinging into live traffic areas or walkways, and to help with truck loading.​

An entry-level grade system, now available for the 305 CR Indicate, provides operators with visual and audible indications of bucket position relative to the target grade, helping them meet exact specifications the first time. The operator selects target depth and slope from the in-cab guidance system, and the monitor provides real-time feedback.

Taking the EOU Indicate to the next level, a Laser Catcher option is available for all next-generation Cat EOU models in the 5- to 10-tonne class. Working with a laser transmitter, Laser Catcher may provide customers with greater peace of mind when working on large job sites that require multiple excavator repositions. It can be ordered from the factory or installed via an aftermarket kit and retrofitted to first-production EOU machines.

8- to 10-tonne class enhancements​

Today's compact radius Cat 308 CR and 309 CR plus the 310 mini hydraulic excavators are now powered by the new Cat C2.8 engine, offering the same ratings and performance as the previous Cat C3.3B power unit. Meeting U.S. EPA Tier 4 Final and Stage V emissions standards, the C2.8 features a "fit for life" diesel oxidation catalyst (DOC) and diesel particulate filter (DPF) that requires no maintenance, reducing service requirements and costs.

A third auxiliary hydraulic option is available to support operators using complex hydromechanical attachments. These next-gen excavators also feature a standard rearview camera to help improve operator visibility and safety while reversing the excavator. Additionally, the 310 now includes a side-view camera as standard, while the side-view camera can be optionally added to 308 CR and 309 CR machines.

The next-generation 308 CR will offer an angle blade option to help with backfilling material. With Stick Steer and blade control in the right joystick, operators can control the machine like a small dozer. The option comes with a dozer float to help with grading and a three-piece bolt-on cutting edge that can be inverted and reversed to extend wear life.

These enhancements can elevate the performance of a next-generation Cat mini hydraulic excavator line that introduced four industry-first features:

• Stick Steer - simplifying machine control, the Cat Stick Steer System enables the operator to switch from conventional level/foot-pedal steering controls to low-effort joystick operation at the touch of a button.
• Cruise control - a standard feature minimizing operator interaction when travelling longer distances between work locations.
• Operator adjustable settings - a large touchscreen display provides intuitive machine function control and easy monitoring of critical operating parameters.