Skip to main content

Mobile wheeled excavators from Caterpillar

Caterpillar claims that its latest M315 and M317 wheeled excavators retain the reliable performance, durability, versatility, fuel efficiency, low operating costs, and easy maintenance of earlier models. However the new D2 Series models also offer more robust fuel-injection systems, versatile front-linkages, greater work-tool capability, and upgraded operator comfort. Power for both the M315D2 and M317D2 is supplied by a Cat C4.4 diesel rated at 108kW.
October 11, 2017 Read time: 2 mins

178 Caterpillar claims that its latest M315 and M317 wheeled excavators retain the reliable performance, durability, versatility, fuel efficiency, low operating costs, and easy maintenance of earlier models. However the new D2 Series models also offer more robust fuel-injection systems, versatile front-linkages, greater work-tool capability, and upgraded operator comfort.

Power for both the M315D2 and M317D2 is supplied by a Cat C4.4 diesel rated at 108kW. This engine is equipped with the firm’s ACERT technology and meets the China Non-road Stage III emissions standards, equivalent to the Tier 3/Stage IIIA standards. This engine also has a fuel system designed to cope with lower fuel quality levels. It has a primary fuel filter/water separator with a water-in-fuel switch that indicates when draining is required. An additional secondary fuel filter further boosts filtration capability.

Mobility is said to be high with the M315D2 able to reach speeds of 37km/h while the larger M317D2 has a top speed of 34km/h. These high road speeds help to reduce travel time and transportation costs when moving the units from site to site.

Two stick options are available for each model, and a one-piece boom provides easy operation in all applications. The Variable Adjustable (VA) boom is said to improve right-side visibility and roading balance, as well as to allow working in restricted spaces or lifting heavy loads. For dozing capability, the new models are available with a radial blade, and available outriggers enhance stability.

The new machines are available with a wide range of attachments, including quick couplers, specialised buckets, hammers, multi-grapples, vibratory-plate compactors, and shears. The operator station is said to be comfortable, while all daily maintenance can be performed from ground level to reduce downtime.

The M315D2 and M317D2 are equipped with the Cat Product Link system, which can deliver data that assists in managing equipment. Remote monitoring through the web-based VisionLink application allows access to data such as location, security alerts, fuel burn, idling time versus working time, and diagnostic/event codes.

The M315D2 weighs from 13.5-15.2tonnes depending on configuration, has a 5.3m dig depth and is equipped with a 0.6m3 bucket. Meanwhile the larger M317D2 weighs from 15.3-17.2tonnes, has a 6.09m dig depth and an 0.8m3 bucket.

For more information on companies in this article

Related Content

  • Cat’s new backhoes
    April 11, 2013
    The new Cat 434F backhoe loader is solely mechanically controlled, while its fellow new backhoe model, the Cat 444F, is equipped with pilot joystick controls and can be fitted with either a 4.27m or a 4.87m backhoe. The upgraded machines are part of Caterpillar’s development of its equal-sized tyre (EST) machine range in line with the rest of the F Series product family. In the European Union (EU), the Cat F Series backhoe loaders feature the EU Stage IIIA emissions standard Cat 4.4 engine. These are said
  • Advances in compact compaction and compact loading machines coming to market
    September 11, 2014
    Key developments are being seen in the markets for compact compaction and loading machines - Mike Woof writes Various new utility machines are now coming to market aimed at the rental segment, with advances in small compaction and loading tools proving particularly popular. These will benefit from the latest low emission engines while delivering increased power and performance, as well as being easier and more comfortable to use.
  • Major improvements for wheeled loaders and excavators
    April 24, 2013
    Excavators and wheeled loaders benefit from new engine technology - Mike Woof reports. Competition is tough in the market for crawler excavators and wheeled loaders. These production machines account for a significant percentage of the entire construction equipment market worldwide and the segment also has the widest array of competing manufacturers. In the past, European, Japanese and US manufacturers dominated this sector but in the last 20 years South Korean companies have built significant market shares
  • Major advances are being seen in aggregate production technologies
    June 28, 2013
    Recent exhibitions have been launch venues for key developments in aggregate production technologies - Mike Woof reports Efficient production of aggregates is crucial for maintaining cost-effectiveness and also lowering material costs. With contractors owning many of their own quarry operations, these firms understand the benefits of reducing materials costs for their road construction projects. Major developments in the equipment for crushing, screening and washing aggregates are now coming to market and e