Caterpillar unveils new line of mini excavators

Next generation mini excavators 

The Caterpillar range of Next Generation mini hydraulic excavators has been expanded with the addition of six new models in the 7-to-10-ton category.  

The new-model lineup includes the 307.5, a standard tail swing model with a fixed boom; 308 CR, a compact radius model with a swing boom; 308 CR VAB, featuring a variable angle (two-piece) swing boom; 309 CR, a new model in the mini range featuring a compact radius, swing boom, and high flow auxiliary hydraulics; 309 CR VAB, which expands the 309 CR's capability with a variable angle boom; and 310, also new to the range, featuring a fixed boom, standard tail swing, and twin blade cylinders for handling heavy-duty dozing chores.

The new models range in maximum operating weight from 18,152 to 22,447 pounds (8 233 to 10 182 kg) and in standard dig depths from 13 feet 5 inches to 17 feet (4 107 to 5 174 mm). Three models—307.5, 308 CR, and 309 CR—are available with a long-stick option that increases dig depth by approximately 22 inches (560 mm). The variable angle boom, available with the 308 CR VAB and 309 CR VAB, enhances digging capability in congested work areas. Powering the 307.5 is the Cat C2.4 turbo diesel engine rated at 55.9 net horsepower (41.7 kW); the five larger models use the Cat C3.3 diesel engine rated at 70.3 net horsepower (52.4 kW).

The design of Cat Next Generation mini excavators emphasizes operator comfort, convenience, and safety. The six new models are fitted with cabs, sealed and pressurized to ensure a clean environment, and featuring a redesigned heating/ventilating/air conditioning system that ensures all-weather climate control.

903D compact wheel loader

The new Caterpillar 903D, compared with its 903C2 predecessor, features a 25 percent increase in both lifting capacity and travel speed, so customers are able to do more, faster. Whether lifting a heavy pallet or sod or traveling from field to farm, the 903D is up to the task. With new optional features, such as creep control, throttle lock and work tool electrical harness, the 903D has the ability to run any number of tools.

Available with either an open or enclosed cab, the 903D operator's station features a refined ergonomic design with a new multi-function joystick that provides fingertip control of the standard third-function hydraulic system. Whether lifting light material into a hopper or loading heavy pallets onto a truck, the choice of standard-lift or high-lift boom arms increase the 903D's ability to work efficiently in a wide range of applications, with buckets ranging in capacity from 0.8 to 1.3 yd³ (0.6 to 1.0 m³), forks, or a selection of powered and non-powered work tools.

Utility vehicles

Last year, Caterpillar announced the introduction of its first-ever Cat utility vehicles. To expand that offering, the product line now includes the gasoline-powered Cat CUV85 and diesel-powered CUV105 D. The CUV85 and CUV105 D both feature a spacious second row to accommodate a total of five people. Caterpillar gathered extensive customer and dealer input to build a UTV that delivers the unrivaled combination of durability, comfort and maintenance simplicity. Rigorous vehicle testing ensures both utility vehicles meet the superior quality and reliability customers expect from Caterpillar.

The CUV85 and CUV105 D feature a rugged steel cargo bed and offer 1,000-lb (454-kg) total rear cargo capacity and 2,000-lb (907-kg) towing capacity for outstanding performance in a variety of applications. These Cat UTVs deliver a premium experience at a competitive price. 

Side discharge buckets

Caterpillar side dishcarge buckets - designed for use with skid steer loaders, multi-terrain loaders, compact track loaders, and compact wheel loaders - collect and transport loose materials such as sawdust, sand, mulch, and topsoil and then discharge these materials via a belt-type conveyor from adjustable openings (doors) on either side of the bucket. A rotating agitator works to keep material flowing to the conveyor. Adjusting conveyor speed and door openings controls the volume of material discharged and the area covered. Features of the Cat Side Discharge Bucket suit this attachment for varied application, including agriculture, construction, landscaping, road maintenance, and material handling.