Digwright, a bulk earthworks and civil engineer contractor, jumped at the opportunity to improve efficiency and cut emissions with its purchase of Australia’s first Cat Tier 4 Final 349FL XE.
Digwright director Andrew Wright explains that the machine’s fuel efficiency, combined with its fully integrated measurement technology, were the key factors in his decision, and it’s been paying off.
Driven by a Tier 4 Final C13 ACERT engine, the machine has a power rating of 311kW, a maximum operating weight of 49.3 tonnes, and a maximum dig depth of 7660 millimetres, thanks to a 6.9-metre reach boom.
One of the major points of operational difference with other machines is this excavator’s ability to provide the same breakout force with less fuel consumption and fewer emissions.
“We’re using 18 litres per hour less than the previous models for the same production rates,” Wright said.
It’s a good illustration of the machine’s ability to deliver immediate operating expense savings.
Other fuel-saving features include either standard or economy power modes, which allow operators to select engine operating speeds to match the application.
It’s not just fuel where the machine stands out, the Tier 4 factor also makes the excavator one of the greenest in Australia, and ultimately, businesses more sustainable.
The excavator’s predictive capability was also a motivator for Digwright’s purchase. Built-in payload measurement means there is no over- or under-loading of trucks, ensuring consistent cycles.
“The [Tier 4 Final 349L] excavator is giving us more predictable outcomes, which is helping us not only ensure we’re hitting operational milestones effectively but is also helping us cost potential jobs as we can show how much we can move over specific time frames,” Wright said.
But it isn’t just predictability in operations that have lifted productivity. Wright suggests continued aftermarket support from Caterpillar dealer Hastings Deering also ensures good performance.
“Hastings Deering is very proactive when it comes to software updates and keeping us in the know.
“We’re getting a lot of info from them so we can keep costs down, use our machine in a better way, or change what we’re doing if it’s not as productive.”
The new machine’s performance bucket is the final outstanding feature. It cuts downtimes, allows GET changeouts in around half the time, and increases both payloads and cycles.
The excitement over the new purchase is understandable. After all, as any young boy could confirm, getting a new digger is a moving moment.