Smarter by far, Caterpillar’s 336 and 336 GC excavators

First published in bauma Preview - March 12, 2019

Caterpillar’s 336 and 336 GC have Integrated Cat Connect Technology

Integrated Cat Connect Technology has boosted the performance of Caterpillar’336 and 336 GC 36-tonne excavators making them around 45% more efficient, claims the manufacturer.

The standard Cat Grade with 2D system provides guidance for depth, slope, and horizontal distance to grade through the standard touchscreen monitor, making operators more accurate. The system is readily upgradable to Cat Grade with Advanced 2D or Cat Grade with 3D.

Standard Grade Assist automates boom, stick, and bucket movements so operators can effortlessly stay on grade with single-lever digging. Cat Payload delivers precise load targets and increased loading efficiency with on-the-go weighing and real-time payload estimates without swinging to prevent truck over/underloading.

The E-fence feature prevents the excavator from moving outside operator-defined set points – particularly useful when working beneath structures or near traffic. Meanwhile, Cat LINK hardware and software connect jobsites to the office and provide customers with machine-critical operating information.

Cat says that all the company’s “Next Generation” excavators consume less fuel than the models they are replacing – up to 15% for the 336. New Smart mode operation automatically matches engine and hydraulic power to digging conditions, optimizing both fuel consumption and performance. Engine speed is automatically lowered when there is no hydraulic demand to further reduce fuel usage.

The cooling system features a new fan that runs on demand to keep the excavator working at the correct operating temperature for maximum efficiency.

With a new electrohydraulic system built for responsiveness and efficiency, the Cat 336 and 336 GC feature a new main control valve that eliminates the need for pilot lines, reduces pressure losses, and lowers fuel consumption. Fewer hydraulic lines on the excavators result in less oil required, lowering long-term operating costs.