Caterpillar introduces 395 Excavator at Conexpo

Caterpillar introduced the Next Generation Cat 395 excavator at Conexpo in Las Vegas, NV in the US, offering contractors up to 10% more production, two times more structural durability, and up to 20% less maintenance costs than the machine it replaces, the 390F.

“We increased swing torque and stick force by 10%,” said Brian Abbott, worldwide product manager for Caterpillar large excavators. “These increases enable contractors to use larger buckets for much greater productivity.”

The 395’s production comes from a dedicated hydrostatic swing circuit — a feature found only on larger Cat mining shovels like the 6015B.

“The circuit enables the excavator to regenerate swing brake energy and independently manage cylinder oil flow,” said Abbott. “What that means for owners and operators is greater fuel efficiency along with smoother, more predictable performance when multitasking with the machine.”

Three modes of operation are available: Power, Smart, and ECO. Power mode is maximum power at all times; ECO mode lowers engine speed and cycle times while maintaining breakout force. Smart mode takes the guesswork out by automatically matching engine and hydraulic power to the actual digging conditions — all to reduce fuel consumption and optimise performance.

The cooling system features a new on-demand fan that’s designed to operate only when required, which helps save fuel. An available auto reverse function assists with cleaning debris from the cooling cores, which enhances operating efficiency.

“The 395 has the industry’s most comprehensive offering of factory-installed technology in its size class,” said Abbott. “Our goal is take an owner’s operating efficiency to a much higher level.”

Cat Payload helps operators increase loading efficiency with on-the-go weighing; real-time payload estimates can be calculated without swinging to help prevent overloading and underloading trucks. The monitor’s USP port lets operators download results from a single shift all the way up to 30 days of work with no need for an internet connection or VisionLink subscription.

Cat Grade with 2D gives operators visual guidance to grade via the standard touchscreen monitor so they can make more accurate cuts. The system is readily upgradable to Cat Grade with Advanced 2D or Cat Grade with 3D for enhanced accuracy. Advanced 2D includes an additional touchscreen monitor to enable in-field design. 3D adds GPS and GLONASS positioning for pinpoint accuracy. The 395’s built-in communication technology makes it easier than ever to connect to 3D services like Trimble Connected Community or Virtual Reference Station.

Lift Assist is a new safety feature that helps prevent the excavator from tipping. It calculates the weight of the actual load being lifted and compares it to the excavator’s rated capability. Visual and auditory alerts show and tell the operator if the excavator is within a safe working range.

Whether equipped with a bucket or hammer, standard 2D E-Fence prevents the excavator from moving outside operator-defined points. This helps protect the machine and other objects from damage and reduces the risk of fines related to zoning or underground and aboveground utility damage. It also helps prevent operator fatigue by reducing overswinging and digging.