Parameter details of the new Cat 349 and 352 excavators - more advanced technology

The Cat 349 comes with 2D Cat Slope Control (Cat 349 is standard equipment). It provides visual guidance to the operator through the touchscreen display for slope control, enabling more accurate operations. Caterpillar states that compared to the F-series models of the same tonnage, the operating efficiency of the Caterpillar 349 and 352 excavators has increased by 45%, fuel efficiency has improved by 10%, and maintenance costs have decreased by 15%. These machines also reflect Caterpillar's naming plan, where the letter names are removed when introducing new models.

The standard configuration of both types of excavators is Cat 2D slope. It can provide visual slope guidance to the operator through the touchscreen display to achieve more accurate cutting. This system can be upgraded to Advanced 2D and 3D. 

Other technologies available on the two machines include: 

The slope assist system can automatically perform the movements of the boom and bucket to help operators of all skill levels improve their operational efficiency.
The Caterpillar payload provides continuous weighing; it can calculate real-time payload estimates without swinging, to help prevent truck overloading and underloading.
The lifting assist function can calculate the actual weight of the load to be lifted and compare it with the rated capacity of the excavator. Visual and auditory alarms indicate whether the machine is within the safe working range.
The electronic fence can prevent the excavator from moving beyond the points defined by the operator, thereby helping to protect the machine, underground utilities, and other objects from damage.
Cat Product Link provides machine operation data through the online VisionLink interface.
Fuel efficiency is the work done per unit of fuel, and 349 does more work than 349F.
Caterpillar has adopted the new Smart Mode system on both machines, which reduces fuel consumption by matching the engine and hydraulic power according to the excavation conditions. When the hydraulic demand decreases, the engine speed will automatically drop. The new on-demand cooling system fan also saves fuel. The owner can choose the reverse function to help clean the debris in the cooling core. 

Caterpillar stated that the main control valve of the new electric hydraulic control system eliminates the need for pilot lines, reduces pressure loss and lowers fuel consumption. This could lead to lower oil requirements and operating costs. 

Maintenance and upkeep 

The company stated that Caterpillar's new air filter features an integrated pre-filter as well as primary and secondary filters, aiming to double the dust removal capacity of the previous design. 

Furthermore, compared to previous products, the filters on the new 349 and 352 models have a longer service life. The service life of the new Cat hydraulic return oil filter is 3,000 hours, which is 50% longer than that of the previous filters. The service life of the 1,000-hour fuel maintenance filter has been extended by 100% compared to the previous filter. 

The water and sand discharge from the fuel system and the oil level inspection of the hydraulic system are grouped together on the ground. 

Cab 

The standard configurations for Cat 349 and 352 are keyless button start, a large touchscreen display, slow-dial keys for control, and rollover protection structure (ROPS) for sound suppression. 

The cab also has: 

The upward-sloping console is convenient for entering and exiting the cab.
Caterpillar claims that the cab mounting seat can reduce vibrations by up to 50% compared to previous F-series models.
A Bluetooth integrated radio with USB ports for connecting and charging devices.
Automatic climate control that maintains the temperature setting regardless of the ambient temperature.
Programmable joystick buttons allowing the operator to set personal preferences for control mode and hydraulic response rate.
Standard rearview and right-side cameras.
In addition, the owner can choose the 360-degree visibility package, which combines images from multiple cameras to enhance the operator's view in all directions.
Extended arm configuration 

The Cat 352 offers an optional extended arm configuration, with a total length of up to 64 feet and a digging depth of 43 feet downward. Using standard waterproof technology, the operator can dig to a depth of 15 feet. To equip the machine with an optional underwater solution, you can work at a height as low as 66 feet. 

The extended-arm packaging includes a heavy-duty high-width chassis and additional counterweights. The variable-sized chassis system can be retracted for easy transportation between jobs; and it can be extended during operation to enhance stability.