CEA (Construction Equipment Association) member Caterpillar has introduced its new Cat 301 Compact Radius (CR) micro excavator, designed to deliver improved lifting capacity, stability and manoeuvrability when working in confined spaces.
Replacing the Cat 300.9D, the new one-tonne-class machine brings a series of performance improvements aimed at contractors working in construction, demolition, landscaping, agriculture and indoor applications where access is restricted.
One of its main advantages is its compact footprint. With a retractable undercarriage, the Cat 301 CR can pass through doorways measuring just 762 mm wide and 1,981 mm high, while its compact radius design minimises overhang when working close to walls, buildings and other fixed structures.
Despite its small dimensions, Caterpillar has made significant improvements to the machine's lifting performance. With the undercarriage fully extended, the 301 CR is 26% wider than its predecessor, while lifting capacity has increased by more than 80%.
Zach Waite, Commercial Director at Caterpillar Industry Solutions, explained:
"Customers asked for a machine in the one-ton class that is simple and comfortable to operate, while offering stability for lifting heavy weights. Our new 301 CR excavator delivers."
The expandable undercarriage adjusts from 730 mm to 1,100 mm, allowing operators to reduce the machine's width for restricted access before extending the tracks for greater stability during operation.
Further performance improvements include a 38% increase in stick force to 6.2 kN and an 8% increase in bucket force to 9.6 kN compared with the Cat 300.9D.
Travel speed has also doubled, reaching up to 3.6 km/h, while a new closed-loop swing system is designed to deliver faster cycle times, improved energy efficiency and reduced heat generation.
Operator comfort and ease of use have also been considered. The machine features side-mounted joystick controls, a simplified instrument display and a standard LED boom work light for improved visibility in poorly lit working environments.
A folding Roll Over Protection Structure (ROPS) enables the machine to pass through height-restricted openings, with the structure raised and secured to provide operator protection during operation.
With a maximum operating weight of 1,230 kg, the Cat 301 CR has also been designed with transportability and servicing in mind. A tilt-up seat provides access to the engine compartment and key maintenance points, while Caterpillar's VisionLink telematics system provides information on machine operating hours and location.
Greater attachment versatility
The new excavator is compatible with a range of Caterpillar work tools, extending its use across different applications.
These include the new A13 auger, B1 hydraulic hammer and redesigned general-purpose and ditch-cleaning buckets. A pin puller coupler enables attachment changes without tools, helping operators move between tasks with less downtime.
A second auxiliary hydraulic circuit is also available as an option, providing additional flexibility when operating hydraulic attachments.
With improvements to stability, lifting capability and operating performance, the new Cat 301 CR expands Caterpillar's compact equipment offering for contractors requiring versatile machinery capable of working in restricted spaces.
For further information, visit www.cat.com.