by Kyle Molyneux | Mon 09 Dec 2019
New Cat 306CR mini excavator
The new Cat 306CR Mini Hydraulic Excavator marks Caterpillar’s entry into the six-tonne class. The new 306CR mini excavator features heavy-duty main structures, a fuel-efficient engine, load-sensing hydraulics, spacious cab and Cat’s Stick Steer system. It shares a similar controls layout and common components with the full line of Cat Next Generation mini excavators to simplify training, offer quick adaptation for operation and lower owning/operating costs.
With its long stick option, the 306CR delivers a maximum dig depth of 4,110mm, and 7,175kg maximum operating weight when equipped with the sealed and pressurised cab. A canopy alternative to the pressurised cab will be available for customers in 2020. Built with a swing boom, the 306CR provides a low, 1,475 mm tail swing with counterweight for working close to obstructions. The mini excavator is powered by a C2.4 turbodiesel engine rated at 55.9hp and which meets EU Stage V emission standards. Meanwhile, automatic engine idle and shutdown features help save fuel.
The new Cat 306CR also delivers performance of up to 3,555kg at a 3m radius. Enhanced uphill swing torque and increased cycle times provide greater productivity and efficiency. The machine’s fuel-saving, load-sensing hydraulic system with an electronically controlled variable-displacement piston pump generates 151L/min hydraulic oil flow. A flow rate of 90L/min to the auxiliary circuit enables operation of most hydromechanical attachments. Complete with quick-disconnect lines, the standard auxiliary hydraulic system provides one-way, two-way and continuous flow.
The new Cat’s sealed and pressurised cabin lowers in-cab operating noise levels to 72dB(A) and is heated and air conditioned to elevate operator comfort regardless of outside temperatures. The cab’s roll-over protective structure (ROPS), tip-over protective structure (TOPS) and top guard combine to promote a safe working environment for the operator. The 306 CR also features an LCD monitor with jog-dial for simple navigation and standard Bluetooth connectivity. The colour monitor gives the operator critical operating details such as fuel, coolant temperature, hour meter, performance and machine adjustments, and maintenance and machine monitoring.
Straight blade, angled blade and extra tool carrier (XTC) configurations further expand the flexibility of the 306 CR mini excavator. Featuring ample travel, above and below grade operation and float function, the machine’s blade handles loose material in backfilling and grading applications, and the front shovel operation can be accomplished with both pin-on and coupler-mounted buckets. The new six-tonne class 306 CR Next Generation Mini Hydraulic Excavator shares common components with models in the Cat mini excavator line to lower repair cost, decrease service time and reduce repair parts inventory. Major machine structures – upper and lower frames, track frames, boom and sick – are modeled after its larger Cat excavator counterparts.
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