(Photo courtesy of Caterpillar)
The Cat 352 hydraulic excavator is designed to work with larger tools. The machine can be equipped with high-capacity buckets or large hammers and offers a choice of fixed- or variable-gauge undercarriage. The variable-gauge undercarriage retracts to a 2,390-mm (7-ft, 10-in) width, making it easier to transport. When expanded, it is 150 mm (six inches) wider than the fixed-gauge undercarriage for greater stability.
Cab trim level options include the deluxe cab, which comes with a heated air-suspension seat, and a premium cab option that comes with a heated and ventilated air-suspension seat. Both have a tilt-up left-hand console to facilitate access in and out of the machine. Optional Cat Stick Steer allows for one-hand operation and includes cruise control.
The excavator features keyless pushbutton start with an available Bluetooth key fob. Engine ignition can also be accomplished through an operator ID passcode. The unique operator ID can quickly save and restore joystick button, response and pattern preferences for individual operators. A high-resolution touchscreen monitor offers quick navigation through machine controls and provides easy access to the digital operator’s manual.
Cat 2D Grade indicates depth and slope on the in-cab monitor with auditory alerts, while standard Cat Grade Assist allows the excavator to stay on grade with single-lever digging. Upgrading to Cat Grade with Advanced 2D or Grade with 3D offers the ability to create and edit designs and efficiently complete more complex grading applications. All Cat Grade systems are compatible with radios and base stations from top third-party technology suppliers.
The 330-kW (443-hp) engine and electrohydraulic system are designed to power through difficult materials. Auto dig boost increases bucket penetration by up to eight per cent when encountering resistance in the cut, and auto heavy lift increases lift capacity by eight per cent. Auxiliary hydraulic options allow the use of a wide range of Cat attachments for greater versatility.
Three engine modes can be used to match excavator power to the demands of the job. Smart mode automatically matches engine and hydraulic power to digging conditions to lower fuel consumption. Power mode delivers maximum power to meet the most demanding tasks. Eco mode reduces engine speed to a constant 1,500 rpm to minimize fuel consumption.
Remote troubleshoot and remote flash let dealers connect with the machine before traveling to a jobsite to diagnose fault codes and update operating software. The company’s Product Link automatically collects vital machine operating information like location, hours, fuel usage, idle time, maintenance alerts, diagnostic codes and machine health and shares it through web and mobile applications.
