The Cat 301.8 mini excavator is the first model in the range to have a sealed cab with air-conditioning, a valuable asset in the harsh Australian climate.
Paul Cross of PGC Irrigation Contractors was dealing with a blistering hot summer’s day in Perth earlier this year, installing pipes for a large, sun-baked primary-school project.
All he needed for the dig was the latest Cat 301.8 mini excavator, and even though the forecast was for 40 degrees, he was unfazed.
Paul knew he would be working inside a sealed-and-pressurised cab equipped with air conditioning, chilling out while getting his work done, fast.
Year-round winner
The feature is an industry-first for mini excavators of this size, making extended operation in high temperatures manageable.
“The air con is great,” said Paul. “When using it I don’t notice any draw on power or feel any impact on performance of the excavator at all.”
“It’s also roomy and I don’t feel claustrophobic inside. In some other machines, even with open cabs, I feel squashed up and uncomfortable.”
Paul said one of the reasons for the effectiveness of the AC unit was the machine’s use of advanced electric-overhydraulic (EH) controls instead of traditional pilot hydraulic systems, enhancing precision, efficiency, and operator comfort.
Traditional hydraulic pilot control systems generate heat due to constant hydraulic fluid movement, which in turn increases ambient temperature inside the cab. With EH controls, the Cat 301.8 has fewer hydraulic lines and less fluid movement, reducing overall heat build-up in the cab, allowing the AC system to cool the space more efficiently.
“Pilot hydraulic controls also need continuous pressure, which puts a load on the engine. This extra load generates more heat and reduces available power for other systems,” Paul said.
Paul said he valued the AC unit just as well during the cold winter months. “It’s great just sitting there toasty warm with the heater on, and safe from the wind and rain,” he said.
Strong performer
The excavator’s undeniable strong lift-and-dig prowess helps get jobs done faster, and the compact size and retractable undercarriage enable access and work in the tightest areas.
Apart from those, Paul also loves the fuel efficiency, thanks to a number of sustainability initiatives.
For example, the Auto Idle capability helps reduce unnecessary fuel burn and greenhouse gas emissions by allowing the engine to automatically go into idle mode when the machine is not working.
The Engine Idle Shutdown Timer reduces fuel burn, emissions and idle time by shutting down the machine after a pre-set idling period.
Meanwhile, the cruise control helps operators maintain a constant speed as they travel across jobsites, saving on fuel.
“I make sure those functions are engaged all the time. Fuel consumption is well down, maybe by up to 40 per cent,” Paul said.
It doesn’t end with engine performance, though. Paul loved the machine’s blade float function, which allows the dozer blade to follow the ground contour without operator input, making it easier to achieve a smooth, level finish.
When engaged, the hydraulic pressure is released, letting the blade rest on the surface naturally.
“It’s fantastic for cleaning up and filling trenches and reducing the number of controls needed, saving time and reducing fatigue,” he said.
Learn more
Compact excavators are a major boon to landscaping and contract work, and the Caterpillar range is extensive and technologically very advanced.
To see the entire range of Caterpillar excavators and equipment, go to cat.com and select ‘Australia New Zealand’.