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

  • Caterpillar’s improved excavators for 36tonne class
    September 11, 2018
    Improved performance is claimed by Caterpillar for its new 36tonne class excavators, the 336 and 336 GC. Upgrades include increase operating efficiency, lower fuel and maintenance costs, and better operator comfort compared to previous models. The new 336 model features standard integrated Cat Connect Technology and the higher power and lift capacity of the two models. This offers productivity at a competitive cost. Meanwhile the Cat 336 GC combines productivity with reduced fuel consumption and maintena
  • Affordable excavator GPS grade control
    February 29, 2012
    Hemisphere GPS says that its new Earthworks excavator grade control system suits use with small to medium-sized contractors.
  • Affordable excavator GPS grade control
    April 4, 2012
    Hemisphere GPS says that its new Earthworks excavator grade control system suits use with small to medium-sized contractors. The package is said to be simple and affordable and displays bucket position relative to desired grade, improving accuracy and efficiency when digging foundations, trenching, cutting a slope and in many other excavation applications.
  • Increased dozing capacity from Caterpillar
    October 9, 2018
    Caterpillar claims that its new D8T Dozer delivers more productivity, better fuel efficiency and greater ease of operation. The firm says that the new dozer is designed to move more material in less time, at a lower cost/tonne, while delivering a faster return on investment. The bulldozer features a new fully automatic transmission, which the firm claims offers a productivity gain of up to 18%, without using more fuel. Added blade capacity, increased power and steering performance, and technology options