The new 25-metric ton Cat 325F hydraulic excavator’s compact-radius design, powerful Cat C4.4 ACERT engine and refined hydraulic system combine to provide ample digging and lifting forces in restricted spaces. Heavy-duty structures throughout, including a choice of booms, ensure long-term durability and production efficiency, and a wide selection of quick couplers and work tools expand the 325F’s versatility.
The 120kW (net) C4.4 ACERT engine meets EU Stage IV emission standards and features an aftertreatment system that requires no action from the operator and does not interrupt work cycles. An engine-speed control system automatically lowers engine rpm when the machine does not require optimum power for the operating situation, thus conserving fuel. Other fuel-saving features include an automatic engine-idle shutdown system and three power modes high-horsepower, standard, and Eco that allow matching machine performance to the task.
The C4.4 ACERT engine, which is up to B20 biodiesel capable, uses a variable-speed fan to further reduce energy consumption. An efficiently designed cooling system allows the 325F to work in extreme heat, and the new model also can work at altitudes of 3000 meters with no engine de-rating required. A high-pressure fuel system features a newly designed pump and injectors for optimum combustion, and a high-efficiency filtration system protects precision fuel-system components from wear and deposits that can result in over-fueling.
The 325F’s implement hydraulic system is designed to locate major components in close proximity to allow the use of short hoses and lines that reduce frictional losses and reduce pressure drops, ensuring optimum power and efficiency from the system. For smooth operation and precise control, the main control valve opens slowly when the range of joystick-lever movement is small and opens rapidly when movement is high, directing hydraulic flow in the exact volume required to the exact function.
Electrically controlled boom- and stick-regeneration systems recycle oil in cylinders instead of exhausting it to the reservoir, resulting in reduced loads on the main pumps for increased fuel economy and faster response. Available quick-couplers and tool-control systems work with available auxiliary-hydraulic circuits to support a range of Cat work-tools and buckets. Tool-control systems can store pressure and flow requirements for multiple tools.
The 325F’s reach boom and stick provide all-around versatility for multipurpose digging and loading. The variable adjustable (VA) boom (available in Europe only) and stick allow working closer to the tracks in confined areas and provide increased lifting capacity.
For long-term durability, the 325F uses a modified X-frame design that resists digging and lifting forces, and its front linkage, robotically welded for optimum strength, ensures long-term performance. In addition, the 325F’s heavy-duty undercarriage uses massive track frames, heavy-duty track rollers, forged carrier rollers, and grease-lubricated track chains that significantly extend chain life and reduce sound when the machine travels.
The new ROPS cab offers more operator space, and uses special viscous mounts to isolate the structure from vibration through the frame, and special interior lining and seals further diminish sound levels at the operator’s ear. The automatic climate-control system maintains consistent cab temperatures, and the fully adjustable, heated (optional) seat combines with adjustable armrests and adjustable joystick consoles to enhance operator productivity.
The large LED monitor is easy to navigate and is programmable in 42 languages. For added convenience, the cab features ample storage areas, auxiliary-power ports, and auxiliary jack for MP3 players.
The 325F uses an integrated ROPS, and to enhance safe entry and exit from the cab, handrails are strategically placed and anti-skid plating with countersunk bolts covers walking surfaces. Within the machine, a full-length firewall separates the engine and hydraulic-pump compartments, and a ground-level fuel-cut-off switch can be used to shut down the engine in an emergency.
The large expanse of glass in the cab affords all-around visibility, and enhanced job-site safety results from the new model’s four mirrors and standard rearview camera system.
Compared to its 321D L CR predecessor, the 325F provides the same productivity while offering increased lifting capacities (up by 7% over-the-front, and up by 9% over-the-side), and a 12% fuel consumption improvement.
The 325F has been designed with accessible serviceability in mind, and most routine maintenance points are available at ground level. Filters are consolidated in the pump compartment for added convenience, and the wide service doors and two-piece hood with gas-cylinder assist provide wide-open access to major components.
Additional serviceability items include an electric fuel-priming pump to simplify fuel-filter changes, easily accessible pressure-check taps and fluid-sampling ports, and maintenance-free diesel particulate filter.
Cat Grade Control delivers 2D bucket-tip-elevation guidance to assist operators in attaining precise planes and slopes, eliminating much of the staking and grade checking typically required. The AccuGrade system provides 3D guidance for making complex cuts and contours.
For added fleet-management assistance, Cat Link technologies use data from telemetrics-equipped machines (Product Link) to remotely monitor such critical information as event and diagnostic codes, machine location, fuel level, idle time, working time, and other detailed information that is transmitted to Caterpillar’s secure web-based application, VisionLink.
October 15, 2015
