Caterpillar’s new next generation 352 hydraulic excavator is able to provide up to 45 per cent more operating efficiency, up to 10 per cent more fuel efficiency, and up to 15 per cent less maintenance costs compared to its predecessor, the 352F.
Equipped with a variable gauge undercarriage, the 352 excavator is able to do more work per litre of fuel than the 352F.
The new Smart Mode system automatically matches engine and hydraulic power to digging conditions, reducing fuel consumption and optimizing performance. As well, the engine speed automatically lowers when hydraulic demand diminishes, further reducing fuel usage.
The cooling system features a new on-demand fan that’s designed to operate only when required, saving fuel and ensuring maximum efficiency. An available reverse function assists with cleaning debris from the cooling cores, which also increases efficiency.
The 352 excavator’s new electrohydraulic control system is built for responsiveness and efficiency. Its main control valve eliminates the need for pilot lines, reduces pressure losses, and lowers fuel consumption. Fewer hydraulic lines result in less required oil and lower long-term operating costs.
352 excavator specs
- Engine: Cat C13
- Gross power: 425 hp
- Transport width (undercarriage extended): 3.49 metres
- Transport width (undercarriage retracted): 2.99 metres
- Maximum digging depth: 7 metres
- Maximum reach at ground level: 11.3 metres
- Loading height: 7.4 metres
With a deluxe cab, the 352 excavator is designed to provide operators with maximum comfort and safety. Performance-enhancing features like keyless pushbutton start, large touchscreen monitor with jog dial keys for control and a sound-suppressed rollover protective structure (ROPS) are standard features on the machine.
A tilt-up console allows easy cab entry and exit, while large front, rear and side windows — along with standard rearview and right-hand-side cameras — enhance visibility.
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Programmable joystick buttons allow the operator to set control patterns and hydraulic response rates, permitting machine operation to be tailored to individual preferences.
Cat also built the 352 excavator with advanced viscous cab mounts that reduce vibration as much as 50 per cent compared with previous models.
An optional 360-degree-visibility package that combines images from multiple cameras to enhance the operator’s sight lines in all directions is also available.
Factory installed tech
The 352 excavator has the industry’s highest level of standard factory-installed technology, according to Caterpillar.
The Cat Grade with 2D system provides operators visual guidance to grade via the standard touchscreen monitor so they can make more accurate cuts. The system is also upgradable to Cat Grade with Advanced 2D or Cat Grade with 3D for enhanced accuracy.
The excavator is also equipped with:
- Grade Assist automates boom and bucket movements to help operators of all skill levels improve their results.
- Cat Payload helps operators increase loading efficiency with on-the-go weighing; real-time payload estimates can be calculated without swinging to help prevent overloading and underloading trucks.
- Lift Assist quickly calculates the weight of the actual load being lifted and compares the result to the rated capability of the excavator. Visual and auditory alerts indicate whether the machine is within a safe working range.
- E-Fence prevents the excavator from moving outside operator-defined points. This helps protect the machine, underground utilities and other objects from damage.
Reduced maintenance
Extended and synchronized maintenance intervals contribute to the 352 excavator’s lower long-term costs.
The new Cat air filter with an integrated pre-cleaner and primary and secondary filters provides double the dust-holding capacity, compared to the previous design.
The new Cat hydraulic return filter has a 3,000-hour service life — a 50 per cent increase over previous filters. As well, fuel system filters are synchronized for service at 1,000 hours — a 100 per cent increase compared to previous filters.
The fuel system’s water and sediment drains and hydraulic system’s oil level check are positioned close together at ground level, making routine daily maintenance faster, easier and safer.
