Caterpillar has introduced a long reach configuration of its 395 excavator.
The long reach excavator (LRE), also available as a kit, assists operators to make easy work of long-distance applications such as dredging, ditch cleaning, and canal and waterway maintenance.
With a maximum digging depth of nearly 22 metres, and up to 28 metres of reach at ground level, the 395 LRE fits firmly in the ‘super long reach’ category and matches its stick and boom configuration with substantial digging force.
“Available as a kit, which can be retrofitted to any 395 model, the 395 LRE option provides operators with a boost to the capabilities and reach of a standard 395, bringing its power, speed and fuel efficiency to bear on a whole new range of excavation applications,” said Vincent Migeotte, Caterpillar’s Senior Product and Sales Consultant.
“Fully integrated with the standard machine, the 395 LRE kit creates a highly specialized machine that takes in its stride all the challenges of working at distance.”
The aftermarket kit includes an 11.8 metre stick, a 15.5 metre boom and a CV linkage adapted for the new stick and boom. Boom cylinders form part of the kit, and the specially designed bucket offers a 2 cubic metre capacity.
RELATED: Cat to celebrate its 100th anniversary at bauma 2025
Recognizing that the super long reach excavator will frequently be used for underwater tasks, the kit also includes fully waterproofed sensor boxes to allow continued operation of the full range of next generation technologies, such as Cat Payload Management System, Cat 2D Grade control system and Cat 2D E-fence. The latter keeps the front linkage within a predefined work area, providing greater operator confidence when working at distance and protecting the machine from damage while improving site safety.
“The kit’s been designed to cover every operating requirement,” Migeotte said. “So, another important feature is the ability to equip the machine with high pressure or medium pressure auxiliary lines, with a quick coupler. This allows full use of retrofit hydromechanical work tools, such as a grapple.”
Upgraded undercarriage
Cat also upgraded the undercarriage. A car body extension of 1.33 metres provides a boost to stability, while overall ground clearance increases by 85 mm. The configuration also adds 24 cm to the cab position height, providing the operator with more all-round visibility.
Another nod to stability is in the design of the counterweight. Caterpillar has upped its mass by nearly 40 per cent, but despite the increase to 21.5 tonnes, it sits within the same dimensions, preserving the machine’s tail ratio.
“The kit also underlines Caterpillar’s commitment to productive, safe worksites, with additional handrails making for safer access and egress, while as-standard rear and side view cameras can be supplemented by a 360-degree option for maximum visibility,” Migeotte said.
In terms of safety, Migeotte said the addition of the kit preserves all the characteristics of the standard 395, but with added versatility and performance.
“With the Cat 395 LRE, operators benefit from the same low costs of ownership, low fuel consumption and low maintenance, offering the same attractive return on investment that has become synonymous with any Cat machine,” he said.
