Next Generation Cat® 349 excavator delivers increased efficiency, lower operating costs
14 August 2019
The Next Generation Cat® 349
excavator offers contractors up to 45 percent more operating efficiency,
up to 10 percent more fuel efficiency, and up to 15 percent less
maintenance costs compared to the model it replaces, the 349F.
Technology boosts efficiency
The 349 has the industry’s highest level of standard factory-installed
technology to enable the improved operating efficiency, including Cat Grade with 2D. The system gives operators visual
guidance to grade via the standard touchscreen monitor so they can make
more accurate cuts. The system is readily upgradable to Cat
Grade with Advanced 2D or Cat Grade with 3D
for enhanced accuracy.
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.
Cat Product Link™ provides a constant stream of wireless
information available via the online VisionLink® interface, allowing
machine managers in the office to quickly evaluate critical operating
information.
Optimum performance
Fuel efficiency is work per unit of fuel, and the 349 does more work per
unit than the 349F.
The new Smart Mode system automatically matches engine
and hydraulic power to digging conditions, reducing fuel consumption and
optimizing performance. Engine speed automatically lowers when hydraulic
demand decreases, 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 — another plus for enhanced efficiency.
The 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.
Reduced maintenance
Extended and synchronized maintenance intervals contribute to the 349’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 of the
previous design.
The new Cat hydraulic return filter has a 3,000 hour service life — a 50
percent increase over previous filters.
Fuel system filters are synchronized for service at 1,000 hours — a 100
percent increase over the 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.
Operator-oriented cab
With a choice of Deluxe or Premium cab packages, the 349 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) come standard.
Following are other cab amenities that are sure to please operators:
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Tilt-up console that allows easy cab entry and exit
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Advanced viscous cab mounts that reduce vibration as much as 50 percent compared with previous models
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Bluetooth® integrated radio with USB ports for connecting and charging phones
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Automatic climate control that maintains temperature settings regardless of ambient temperatures
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Programmable joystick buttons that allow setting control patterns and hydraulic response rates, permitting machine operation to be tailored to individual preferences.
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Large front, rear, and side windows along with standard rearview and right-hand-side cameras to enhance visibility
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An optional 360-degree-visibility package combines images from multiple cameras to enhance the operator’s sight lines in all directions
For more information about the 349 and other Next Generation Cat hydraulic excavators, contact the local Cat dealer or visit www.cat.com
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Source: Caterpillar - www.cat.com
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