The recently released F-Series Cat wheel excavators (M314F, M316F, M318F, M320F, M322F) and wheel material handlers (MH3022, MH3024) are designed to meet high standards for initial quality, reliability, low operating costs, operator comfort and safety, simplicity of operation and maintenance. To further enhance overall value for the machine owner, Caterpillar has further refined the design of these product lines for the 2017 model year to provide increased fuel efficiency, versatility, and operator safety and convenience. Caterpillar policy to annually update product design allows the company to bring new features and enhancements to the market more quickly.
Decreased fuel consumption
The M314F and M316F wheel excavators are fitted with the Cat C4.4 ACERT™ engine while the M318F, M320F, and M322F use the C7.1 ACERT engine. These engines feature high torque and fast response to load changes, while meeting E.U. Stage IV emission standards. Emission technology includes the Cat NOx-reduction system, selective catalytic reduction system, diesel oxidation catalyst, and high-pressure/common-rail fuel system. The Cat Clean Emission Module also includes a Diesel Particulate Filter for all models but for the M314F and M316F which do not require it to meet the emission standards.
New for these machines is a system that adjusts engine speed to match speed demands during travels. The system provides the exact level of power required for varying roading situations, resulting in reduced fuel consumption and reduced sound levels.
Increased versatility
An optional integrated tilt-rotator ready package is now available for the wheel excavators and provides a factory-installed, on-board platform for the new Cat tilt-rotators. All modifications required to the cab, electrical, and software systems are incorporated in the package. The system requires no additional monitor; all necessary settings and parameters are integrated directly into the machine monitor. Included with this package are the new advanced joysticks.
The available advanced joystick control system is designed to provide added comfort and functionality. The ergonomic design of the controls and rubberized surfaces allow fingertip control of hydraulic functions, while two sliders and five buttons on each joystick allow integrating additional functions, such as rotation/tilt, Cat tilt-rotator grapple module and lever steering.
An added standard feature is extended flexibility for work tool function assignment, on the left pedal and both joysticks. The system allows more freedom to choose which work tool function will be assigned to which control.
New quick-coupler controls are now operated from a switch, not from the monitor, in order to comply with ISO 13031 standard. The quick-coupler control switch is located in place of the previous radio-mute switch, which is relocated to the right console. The new system allows quicker tool changes.
Safety enhancements
The ability to limit travel speed in reverse mode is also a new feature, allowing the machine owner to set a safe speed when the machine is swung and moving in reverse. In addition, a modified swing lock now functions independently from the implement-lockout system. When loading the machine onto a transport truck, for instance, this feature allows for greater manoeuvrability, offering the ability to adjust implement position, while eliminating the risk of accidentally swinging the upper frame.
