Cat announces next-gen 26-tonner

Caterpillar has lifted the covers off its latest 26-tonne excavator offering a suite of standard technologies in the cab such as Cat grade and Grade Assist to boost productivity.

In addition, Cat claimed it will also offer improved fuel savings, lower maintenance costs and improved operator comfort with all-new cab designs.

A key feature of the 326 is its ease of operation, Cat said. The new rig features a Bluetooth keyless remote start and has a unique Operator ID function for operator-specific power modes and joystick preferences for a more customised experience. An 8-inch high-resolution touchscreen monitor delivers intuitive navigation through the menus and includes a digital version of the operator’s manual.

A Cat 7.1 engine that meets the latest emissions standards powers the new 326 excavator and reduces fuel consumption by up to 15 per cent compared to the F Series, Cat said.

It features three selectable power modes and one-touch low idle with automatic engine speed control. A standard high-ambient temperature operating capacity of 52 degrees Celsius and standard cold start capacity of -18 degrees Celsius allow the excavators to operate in the harshest of climates.

The new Cat 326 excavator features an advanced hydraulic system that offers a good balance between power and efficiency, Cat said. The machine also has a 12 per cent improvement in swing torque to make the machine easier to swing, especially on inclines with fully loaded buckets, Cat said.

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A SMART-mode operation automatically matches engine speed and hydraulic power to digging conditions, while offering an additional five per cent fuel savings, Cat added.  An optional Smartboom function allows the boom to lower freely without using pump flow. It can also be used when hammering to apply just the right amount of down force.

The Cat 326 features a range of standard Caterpillar technologies that serve to improve operating efficiency and lower operator fatigue.

The Standard Cat Grade with 2D system allows operators to reach desired grade quickly and accurately by guiding depth, slope and horizontal distance grade. Contractors can upgrade the standard 2D system to Cat Grade with Advanced 2D or 3D to fit application needs.

Standard Grade Assist allows operators to stay on grade with the use of a single lever, while Bucket Assist automatically maintains the angle in sloping, leveling, fine grading and trenching applications.

Innovative Swing Assist automatically stops excavator swing at predefined set points for truck loading and trenching to reduce effort and fuel consumption.

The Cat Payload on-board weighing system helps operators achieve precise load targets by providing on-the-go weighing and real-time estimates of the bucket’s payload.

VisionLink allows companies to remotely manage production targets through data gathered by Payload and offers the ability to download production data to a USB stick.

The Cat 326 also features a brand new cab design with advanced viscous mounts to reduce cab vibration by up to 50 per cent over previous models, Cat said. Contractors have a choice of Comfort, Deluxe and Premium cabs – all with automatic climate control.

Bluetooth compatibility with the standard radio offers operators the ability to connect personal devices and make hands-free calls.

Small cab pillars and large panoramic windows offer great visibility around the machine while standard rearview and right-view cameras further enhance visibility and safety.

Cat said its 326 Next Gen excavator offers 20 per cent lower maintenance costs than the 326F. All the daily maintenance checks can be quickly and safely performed at ground-level, including a ground-level dipstick to easily check the engine oil.

Filter life and maintenance intervals information are displayed on the in-cab monitor.