Cat® 340F Delivers Enhanced Operator Comfort and Safety, Fuel-Efficiency, Powerful Hydraulics, Durable Structures, Ease of Maintenance

The new Cat® 340F hydraulic excavator has a maximum operating weight 42 800 kg (94,350 lb.) and is powered by a Cat C9.3 ACERT™ engine, which meets EU Stage IV emission standards and has a net power rating of 226 kW (310 hp). The 340F’s powerful hydraulic system, with a maximum flow of 570 L/min (150 gpm), delivers powerful digging and lifting forces, as well as ample power for hydro-mechanical work tools. The 340F features heavy-duty main structures for long-term durability, spacious operator’s station, simple routine maintenance, and fuel-saving systems that reduce operating costs in a range of applications.

Fuel-saving features include two power modes—standard and economy—that allow operators to select an engine operating speed to match the application. In addition, an automatic engine-speed control adjusts engine rpm to match the machine's operating load, and an engine-idle shutdown system stops the engine after a pre-set idling interval. These systems not only save fuel, but also reduce emissions and extend service intervals. Emissions controls for the C9.3 ACERT engine are transparent to the operator and cause no interruption of work cycles.

The 340F’s hydraulic system features Caterpillar SmartBoom™ technology, a design that enhances productivity by reducing stress and vibration transmitted to the machine during such operations as rock scraping or hammering. For overall system efficiency, major hydraulic components are located in close proximity—allowing shorter connecting tubes and hoses that reduce frictional losses and pressure reductions. The result is reduced loading on the system for added fuel savings. The main control valve also is designed to respond proportionally to control-lever movement for precise controllability of hydraulic functions.

In addition, electrically controlled regeneration circuits for the boom and stick cylinders reduce the oil volume required from the main pumps, thus reducing engine load, saving fuel and further enhancing controllability. Available couplers and auxiliary hydraulic circuits expand the 340F’s capability by equipping it to handle an extensive range of Cat work tools—including buckets, hammers, grapples, shears, multi-processors, and rippers.

Structures
The 340F’s booms and sticks are fabricated with premium steel plate and use high-strength castings and forgings in high-stress areas. Fitted with the heavy-duty 6,5-m (21.3-ft.) reach boom and 3,2-m (10.5-ft.) stick, the 340F has a maximum digging depth of 7 480 mm (24.5 ft.). An available mass-excavation boom is paired with a 2.55-m (8.2-ft.) stick and is designed for high production in large-scale earthmoving and heavy-material applications. Special boom and stick geometry, bucket linkage, and cylinders provide added durability in these difficult operations.

Proven, heavy-duty construction of the 340F’s upper frame, carbody, and track frames ensures structural durability in the most severe applications, and the upper frame incorporates special mountings to support the ROPS cab. The heavy-duty undercarriage—featuring massive track roller frames and high-tensile-strength-steel components—provides a stable working base for excavating and lifting. Track chains are grease-lubricated to reduce internal pin-and-bushing wear, thus extending undercarriage life and reducing travel noise.

Operator’s station
The 340F’s cab is spacious and comfortable, featuring an automatic climate-control system that maintains consistent temperatures. Low-effort joystick controllers are mounted in height-adjustable consoles that complement adjustable armrests and a fully adjustable, high-back seat. Seat options include air-suspension, heating, and cooling.

The cab’s large glass areas enhance visibility, and special sealing and insulation help keep the operator's environment clean and quiet. The large, high-resolution, LCD monitor is designed for easy navigation and provides critical operating information (in 42 languages).

Serviceability/technology
Routine maintenance points are easily accessed from ground level, including greasing points, fluid taps, filters, and drain tubes. Service-compartment doors are designed to prevent debris entry and latch securely in the open position for machine maintenance. The side-by-side cooling system is designed for optimum efficiency and easy cleaning, plus the system can be upgraded for high-ambient conditions.

LINK technologies, such as the Product Link™ system, allow fleet owners to increase productivity and lower operating costs by tracking critical items, such as machine location, hours, fuel usage, diagnostic codes, and idle time via the online VisionLink® interface.