Products & Equipment Heavy Equipment
Cat releases new 336F hybrid excavator

June 16, 2015 – The Cat 336F L XE Hybrid features an integrated design that conserves fuel, optimizes performance, and captures and reuses energy.

The machine delivers an estimated fuel savings of up to 20 per cent compared with its standard 336 counterpart with no compromise in performance and no added maintenance costs.

The new Cat Production Measurement system enables operators to load trucks with just the right weight while allowing managers to remotely monitor the machine’s productivity.

The 308 horsepower (230 kW) C9.3 engine meet U.S. EPA Tier 4 Final emissions regulations. The fuel efficiency of the C9.3 is further enhanced with automatic engine speed control, a programmable engine idle shutdown feature, and an ECO mode that allows operators to tailor machine performance to the application. The engine also runs efficiently on biodiesel blends up to B20.

The 336F XE uses three building block technologies to deliver fuel savings and performance. The Cat Electronic Standardized Programmable (ESP) pump smoothly transitions between the hydraulic hybrid power sources, the engine, and the accumulator to conserve fuel. The Cat Adaptive Control System (ACS) valve optimizes performance by intelligently managing restrictions and flows to control machine motion. Instead of wasting kinetic energy during swing braking, the Cat Hydraulic Hybrid Swing System pressurizes the accumulator to stop the machine and then uses that pressure when needed to accelerate the machine later.

The key ingredient is the ACS valve, which can be found only on the Cat brand. It is the brain of the system – one that independently controls machine functions and directs hydraulic energy where operators need it precisely when they need it. Because the ACS valve is fully integrated with the pump and hybrid system, operators will experience the same control, hydraulic power, and lift capacity they get from traditional Cat machines with the added benefit of reduced fuel consumption.

Technology enhancements

To assist customers in managing the 336F L XE for optimum return on investment, Caterpillar offers several connected technologies as standard. Grade technologies provide real-time bucket tip elevation guidance to help operators stay on grade and finish work more quickly, accurately, and productively. The latest technology addition is payload, and it provides real-time weighing as the boom swings for fast, efficient loading, and optimum payloads. Operators can view load weights on the in-cab display and know when target payload is achieved, maximizing the productivity of the entire fleet. Productivity can be tracked from the cab—with quick access to payload weights, load and cycle counts, and daily totals. Site managers can wirelessly access payload data and machine-operating data such as location, hours, idle time, fuel usage and events via Link technologies through the VisionLink web portal to measure production, monitor efficiency, and optimize performance.

The 336F L XE’s frame, heavy-duty extended-length undercarriage, and standard and heavy counterweight options combine to form a strong, stable work platform for digging, lifting, or attachment use. The heavy-duty reach boom can be paired with either a 10’6” (3.2 m) stick or a 12’10” (3.9 m) stick. A mass boom and 8’4” (2.55 m) stick combination are also available. So are multiple Cat Work Tools and a tool control system designed specifically to help customers get the most out of one machine.

The 336F L XE also features a spacious operator’s environment with an in-cab sound level of only 73 dB(A). Air suspension and heated and cooled seat options are available as well as joystick controls adjustable to suit operator preferences and an automatic climate control system that continually maintains a comfortable environment.

Serviceability features include ground-level access to major maintenance points, electric fuel system priming pump, remote fuel tank drain, and a fuel level indicator to help avoid overfilling. Safety features include a Roll-Over Protective Structure (ROPS) cab, anti-skid surfaces, programmable halogen working lights, easily stored upper and lower windows, and large skylight that can be removed for an emergency exit.