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Caterpillar 311C Utility Hydraulic Excavator
Caterpillar 311C Utility Hydraulic ExcavatorIncreased horsepower, better controllability, extended service intervals and a redesigned operator station increase your productivity and lower your operating costs. |  |  | |||
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 | Overview & Specifications | |  | Features & Benefits | | | Standard Equipment | | | Optional Equipment | | | Work Tools & Attachments | ||
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 | | Engine The 311C U is powered by the CatŪ 3064 T engine. This engine includes several design features which enhance performance, efficiency and reliability. |
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| Torque Rise The engine is designed for high torque rise at middle rpm, a feature that is especially beneficial for heavy-duty use. | ||
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| Cylinder Block The cylinder block is cast iron for improved wear resistance. The upper part is laser hardened to reduce oil consumption and internal component wear. | ||
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| Maintenance The oil level gauge, oil filter, fuel filter and priming pump are located on the right side of the upper structure for easy maintenance. The engine oil filter and fuel filter change intervals have been extended to 500 hours. | ||
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| Crankshaft The eight balance, one-piece, forged crankshaft enhances balance and decreases vibration and is induction hardened to improve abrasion resistance. | ||
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| Pistons Heat resistant aluminum alloy pistons have a short compression height, reducing weight and improving efficiency. | ||
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| Fuel Consumption The 3064 T engine has the best fuel consumption in this class of diesel engines. It features improved thermal efficiency and reduced friction resistance between piston and liners. | ||
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| Air Intake Heating Air intake heating is standard on the 311C U for easier cold starts. | ||
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 | | Hydraulics The open-center, two-pump hydraulic system features pump flow control which improves fuel efficiency, ensures smooth controllability, reduces sound levels and extends component life. |
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| Component Layout The 311C U hydraulic system was designed to provide a high level of efficiency. With all major components located close together, shorter tubes and lines are needed, resulting in less friction loss in the lines and reduced pressure drops. | ||
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| Hydraulic Cross Sensing System The hydraulic cross-sensing system utilizes each of the two hydraulic pumps to 100 percent of engine power under all operating conditions. | ||
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| Automatic Boom and Swing Priority For simpler operation, work mode and power mode switches have been eliminated. Instead, the automatic boom and swing priority function selects the best mode, based on joystick movement, simplifying operation and optimizing performance in different applications. The system uses a joystick control sensor to detect when the operator is requiring more priority to either boom or stick movement. This modulated system switches over to a priority circuit gradually, giving a smooth operation that matches the operator's expectations. | ||
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| Stackable Valves Up to two additional control valves can be added to the main control valve of the 311C U to run additional tools. | ||
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| Controllability The hydraulic system offers precise control to the 311C U, reducing operator fatigue, improving operator effectiveness and efficiency, which ultimately translates into enhanced performance. | ||
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| Auxiliary Hydraulic Valve For further versatility, a dedicated hammer (single function), thumb (double function), and combined auxiliary hydraulics are offered on the 311C U. | ||
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| Hydraulic Snubbers Hydraulic cylinder snubbers at the rod-end of boom cylinders and both ends of the stick cylinders cushion shocks, reduce sound and increase cylinder life. | ||
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 | | Undercarriage and Structures Rugged Caterpillar undercarriage design and proven structural manufacturing techniques assure outstanding durability in the toughest applications. New grease lubricated seals protect and prolong track life. |
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| Structures Rugged Caterpillar undercarriage design and proven structural manufacturing techniques assure outstanding durability in the toughest applications. | ||
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 | | Carbody Design and Track Roller Frames The 311C U carbody is a box section "X" structure. The "X" structure is designed with the carbody welded close to the ends of the track roller frames. As a result, overall rigidity is high and resistance to torsional bending between the track roller frames and the carbody is increased. The press-formed, pentagonal track roller frames and carbody are robot welded to ensure a continuous and high-quality weld. The welds are long, which contributes to smoother transition of loads and increases endurance. The sloped top of the track frame allows accumulated mud and debris to be cleaned away easily. |
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| Rollers and Idlers Sealed and lubricated track rollers, carrier rollers and idlers provide excellent service life, to keep the machine in the field longer. | ||
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| Main Frame The rugged main frame is designed for maximum durability and efficient use of materials. The outer frame utilizes curved side rails, which are die-formed, for excellent uniformity and strength throughout the length. Box section channels improve upper frame rigidity under the cab. Inverted U-channels span the width of the main frame and are formed, rather than fabricated, for superior strength and reduced weight. Boom tower and main rails are constructed of solid, high-tensile strength steel plates. Boom foot and engine mount areas are reinforced for additional strength. | ||
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| Grease Lubricated Track New grease lubricated seals protect the track link and deliver long track link pin and bushing inner wear life by helping to keep dirt and debris from entering the pin and bushing joint. | ||
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| Travel Motors Automatic speed selection enables the machine to automatically change up and down from high and low speeds in a smooth, controlled manner. | ||
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| Idler Guard An idler guard, which is integral to the track roller frame, is standard. This guard helps maintain track alignment while traveling or working on slopes. | ||
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| Blades For further versatility and to meet more general purposes needs, three blade width options are available on the 311C U. | ||
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 | | Shorter Tail Swing Radius The 311C U, with its reduced tail swing radius, is easier to operate while against walls and in tight areas, reducing the concern of the rear of the machine during operation. The shorter tail measurement allows flexibility for ideal use in urban construction, logging roads, and other space restricted sites. |
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 | | Front Linkage Designed-in flexibility to help bring higher production and efficiency to all jobs. |
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| Front Linkage Front linkage variations on the 311C U allow for the use of one boom, two sticks and five buckets. Using these combinations improves the general-purpose versatility of the 311C U by suiting it to a diverse range of applications. | ||
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| Boom The boom on the 311C U is designed to provide maximum digging capability. Caterpillar booms are manufactured with high-tensile steel for upper, lower and side plates and are robot welded for consistent quality. | ||
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| Stick Two sticks are available on the 311C U. The customer's working envelope and bucket capacity needs determine their stick choice. | ||
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 | | Boom and Stick Construction Built for performance and long service life, Caterpillar booms and sticks are large, welded, box-section structures with thick, multi-plate fabrications in high-stress areas. |
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| Buckets High tensile strength steel is used in high-stress areas for excellent wear and shock resistance. The excavation bucket is designed for general-purpose excavation, ranging from low or medium-friction soft earth to hard earth. It is also designed to have a large bucket capacity and tip radius. | ||
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 | | Bucket Linkage The bucket linkage on the 311C U includes the bucket cylinder, idler link and power links. |
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| Linkage Bearings New bearing technology has extended the front linkage greasing intervals for all bearings. | ||
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 | | Operator Station Larger, quieter, climate-controlled cab has excellent sightlines to the work area to help keep operator fatigue low and production up throughout the entire shift. |
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| Operator Environment The 311C U operator work station is quiet with ergonomic control placement and convenient adjustments. Low lever and pedal effort, ergonomic seat design and highly efficient ventilation make this cab an excellent working environment for the operator. The result is a cab that puts the operator firmly and comfortably in control, translating into greater productivity. | ||
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 | | Monitor The 311C U's newly designed and conveniently located monitor allows the operator to monitor machine performance while sitting in a comfortable position. |
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 | | Automatic Boom and Swing Priority Function For simpler operation, work mode and power mode switches have been eliminated. Instead, the automatic boom and swing priority function selects the best mode, based on joystick movement, simplifying operation and optimizing performance in different applications. The system uses a joystick control sensor to detect when the operator is requiring more priority to either boom or stick movement. This modulated system switches over to a priority circuit gradually, giving a smooth operation that matches the operator's expectations. |
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| Redesigned Layout The redesigned cab layout emphasizes simplicity and ease of use. The right-hand console provides easy access to switches, dials and controls. Control levers are positioned so that the operator can operate the lever with an arm on the armrest, for comfort and ease. | ||
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 | | Travel Controls The travel controls have been designed to match the operator's natural expectations. A large rubber-covered footrest at the side of the travel pedals allows the foot to easily grip the pedal. The travel lever stroke and force have been enhanced to improve the 311C U's fine controllability, making the machine easier to operate. |
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 | | Seat A new seat offers a wide range of adjustments for operator comfort. Armrests and controls can be positioned to fit the operator's preference. The reclining knob is located at the right-side of the seat for easier reclining adjustment. |
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| Automatic Climate Control The 311C U features fully automatic climate control. Ambient temperature and sun load sensors are located near the air conditioner unit, underneath the platform and near the monitor panel. The fully automatic air conditioner adjusts temperature and directs air flow. | ||
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 | | Skylight A large polycarbonate skylight delivers excellent natural lighting, good ventilation and an increased viewing area. Gas cylinders make opening the skylight easy and eliminate the need to lock the skylight in the open position. A standard sliding sunshade protects the operator from direct sunlight. |
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| Cab Exterior The 311C U's cab is newly designed using asymmetrical steel tubing for improved resistance to fatigue and vibration. FOGS (Falling Object Guard System) may be bolted-on directly to the cab. | ||
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| Cab Mounts The cab shell is attached to the frame with improved viscous mounts, reducing vibration and sound. | ||
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| Wiper With continuous and intermittent modes, the wiper is positioned on the right cab pillar to further improve the operator's viewing area. | ||
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 | | Clear View Over the Engine The engine hood has been lowered, improving the operator's rear viewing area. |
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| Hydraulic Actuation Control Lever For easy access, a larger hydraulic actuation control lever is attached to the cab floor. When in the locked position, the hydraulic actuation control lever cuts the pilot pressure for the control levers. It also cuts the power circuit for engine starting in the locked position. In addition to deactivating the control and travel levers, the hydraulic actuation lever prevents the engine from starting. To move the control lever to the locked position, simply push the button and raise the control lever. | ||
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| Upper Front Windshield The upper front windshield opens, closes and stores on the roof above the operator. Grips on the mid-lower part of the front windshield make opening easy. | ||
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| Lower Front Windshield The lower front windshield glass features a rounded design that maximizes downward viewing. The windshield can be removed and stored at the left rear of the cab. | ||
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 | | Serviceability Longer service intervals and easier maintenance result in better machine availability and lower owning and operating costs. |
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| Extended Service Intervals 311C U service and maintenance intervals have been extended to reduce machine service time and increase machine availability. | ||
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 | | Radiator Compartment The left rear service door allows easy access to the engine radiator and the oil cooler. A reserve tank and drain cock are attached to the radiator for simplified maintenance. |
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| Air Filter Compartment The air filter features a double-element construction for superior cleaning efficiency. When the air cleaner plugs, a red warning sign appears on the indicator near the air cleaner, indicating that the filter needs to be serviced. | ||
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| Ground Level Service The design and layout of the 311C U was made with the service technician in mind. Many of the service locations have a ground level access that is either exposed or reachable through a convenient side door, eliminating the need to climb on top or work under the machine. With service this easy, critical maintenance gets done quickly and efficiently. | ||
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 | | Pump Compartment A service door on the right side of the upper structure allows ground-level access to the pump and pilot filter. |
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| Capsule Filter The hydraulic return filter, a capsule filter, is situated outside the hydraulic tank. This filter prevents contaminants from entering the system when hydraulic oil is changed, keeping the operation clean. The filter is changed from the top service platform. | ||
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| Anti-Skid "Punched-Star" Plate Anti-skid punched-star plate covers the maintenance walkway to prevent slipping. The plate can be removed for cleaning. | ||
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| Engine Inspection The engine can be accessed from the upper structure or from under the machine. The engine and pump compartment are separated by a steel wall. | ||
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 | | Handrails and Steps Larger handrails and steps assist the operator in climbing on and off the machine. |
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| Grease Lubricated Track Track link is protected using grease lubricated seals. These seals deliver long track link pin and bushing inner wear life by preventing dirt and debris to enter the pin and bushing area. The grease-lubricated track also reduces travel noise. | ||
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| Fan Guard The engine radiator fan is completely enclosed by fine wire mesh, reducing the risk of an accident. | ||
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 | | Complete Customer Support Your Cat dealer offers a wide range of services that can be set up under a Customer Support Agreement when you purchase your equipment. The dealer will help you choose a plan that can cover everything from machine and attachment selection to replacement. |
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| Selection Make detailed comparisons of the machines you are considering before you buy. What are the job requirements? What production is needed? What is the true cost of lost production? Your Cat dealer can give you precise answers to these questions. | ||
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| Purchase Look past initial price, look at the value the 311C U offers. Consider the financing options available as well as day-to-day operating costs. | ||
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| Operation Improving operating techniques can boost your profits. Your Cat dealer has training literature and other ideas to help you increase productivity. | ||
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| Maintenance Repair option programs guarantee the cost of repairs up front. Diagnostic programs such as Scheduled Oil Sampling and Technical Analysis help you avoid unscheduled repairs. | ||
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| Replacement Repair, rebuild or replace? Your Cat dealer can help you evaluate the cost involved so you can make the right choice. | ||
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| Product Support You will find nearly all parts at our dealer parts counter. Cat dealers utilize a worldwide computer network to find in-stock parts to minimize machine down time. You will save money with remanufactured components. | ||