Skip to main content

Grade control technology for compact machines

Caterpillar now offers Cat Grade technologies as an aftermarket option to owners of Cat next generation mini hydraulic excavators in the 6-10tonne class range. The systems are available through Cat and Sitech dealers and allow owners to equip machines with Cat Grade with Advanced 2D, or Cat Grade with 3D. The field kit’s modular components allow quick installation, while the technology integrates into the Cat excavator electronics infrastructure.
January 25, 2022 Read time: 2 mins
Caterpillar’s 6-10tonne machines can be fitted with Trimble machine control tools

Both aftermarket grade technologies share similar capabilities with larger Cat excavators operating Cat Grade with Advanced 2D or 3D systems. A separate, high-resolution touchscreen monitor allows operators to view, create and work site designs inside the cab. Automatics deliver simple, single-joystick control over the stick and bucket to maintain grade and avoid overcutting and undercutting.

Cat Grade with Advanced 2D uses onboard processors and sensors to deliver real-time bucket tip and elevation guidance on the touchscreen. This allows operators to create and work to basic site designs, while grade design edits can be made in the cab. Field installation of the technology includes the hardware, sensors and dedicated monitor for grade plan creation, editing and viewing.

Using GPS and GLONASS systems to pinpoint location, Cat Grade with 3D allows multiple machines to grade to complex jobsite designs. The monitor shows bucket position throughout the digging motion, while height and depth audio alerts indicate when desired grade has been reached to protect from overcutting or undercutting. Beyond the hardware and sensors, including monitor, required for Grade with Advanced 2D, installation of Grade with 3D also requires GNSS receivers and antennas.

Cat Grade technologies help operators reduce the number of passes and shortens the time it takes to complete cuts. Saving costs associated with time, labour, fuel and material consumption, Cat Grade technologies allow companies to reach target grade quickly and lower overall operating costs at the jobsite.

For more information on companies in this article

Related Content

  • CONTROLS widens capabilities for asphalt testing
    March 3, 2016
    The CONTROLS Group is widening its array of asphalt testing technologies. New from the Group is the PAVELAB50. This has been developed by the PAVELAB SYSTEMS division and is an automatic closed loop system for the separation and extraction of bitumen, filler and aggregates asphalt samples. This uses solvents, according to ASTM D2172 and EN 12697-1. The test methods are used for measuring bitumen in hot-mixed paving mixtures and paving samples for specification acceptance, service evaluation, control and res
  • CONTROLS widens capabilities for asphalt testing
    January 6, 2017
    The CONTROLS Group is widening its array of asphalt testing technologies. New from the Group is the PAVELAB50. This has been developed by the PAVELAB SYSTEMS division and is an automatic closed loop system for the separation and extraction of bitumen, filler and aggregates asphalt samples. This uses solvents, according to ASTM D2172 and EN 12697-1. The test methods are used for measuring bitumen in hot-mixed paving mixtures and paving samples for specification acceptance, service evaluation, control and res
  • Caterpillar’s new 13tonne excavator suits developing markets
    January 6, 2017
    Caterpillar has developed its 312D/D L Series 2 excavator as a durable machine with low operating costs for sale in developing markets. Power for the 312D/D L Series 2 excavator comes from a Cat 3054C diesel rated at 67kW that meets Tier 2 and EU Stage II emissions regulations. The new model is available in standard and/or long undercarriage configurations, with operating weights from 12.9-13.9tonnes depending on the specification.
  • Caterpillar’s new 13tonne excavator suits developing markets
    January 31, 2013
    Caterpillar has developed its 312D/D L Series 2 excavator as a durable machine with low operating costs for sale in developing markets. Power for the 312D/D L Series 2 excavator comes from a Cat 3054C diesel rated at 67kW that meets Tier 2 and EU Stage II emissions regulations. The new model is available in standard and/or long undercarriage configurations, with operating weights from 12.9-13.9tonnes depending on the specification.