Caterpillar has unveiled its first new front shovel large excavator configuration in 15 years: the Cat 395.
Designed to meet the needs of mining and quarry customers, the new front shovel model takes full advantage of standard Caterpillar next generation features, such as fuel economy and low maintenance costs, while improving operator comfort and control.
While the 395 front shovel will officially launch in October, Caterpillar offered a preview of a pre-production machine at bauma in Munich.
For the last two decades, front shovel configuration excavators from Caterpillar have been available on 300 tonne machines.
“This is the first time in 15 years that Caterpillar is coming out with a front shovel solution that is below 100 tonnes,” said Ana Pinzon, Product Application Specialist for Caterpillar. “This is 95 tonnes, and it’s using the well-known and proven 395 next gen platform to create this kind of configuration.”
She explained the 395 front shovel is an ideal machine for mining and aggregate sites with horizontal space constraints. As well, the front shovel configuration allows the excavators to fill in for wheel loaders when floor conditions are not suitable for tires.
“It can do many things. It can do the work of producing, but it can also do the job of cleaning, keeping the shape of the job site,” Pinzon said.
The design of the 395 front shovel is primarily aimed to tackle three primary objectives: robust digging and breakout force, lightning-quick loading cycles and rigorous bucket fill.
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“Customers repeatedly told us that they need a machine that not only offers peak performance but that can operate consistently at those peak levels,” said Vincent Migeotte, Caterpillar Senior Product and Sales Consultant.
“That’s born out in the 395 FS with a maximum ground level digging force up to truck height, matched by a powerful breakout force at the bucket cutting edge that promises superior material penetration and optimal bucket fill factors.”
The excavator also delivers bucket volumes of up to 6.5 cubic metres or a maximum density of 1.85 tonnes per cubic metre.
“That offers operators a big boost in productivity,” Migeotte said.
Caterpillar also designed the machine with features such as a reinforced, extra-durable undercarriage and additional cylinder guards, plus long-life fuel and hydraulic oil filters to reduce costs and downtime. As well, all next generation models share common parts.
“Of course, a machine only delivers its best performance when it works in harmony with its operator,” Migeotte said, “which is why we’ve paid so much attention to operator optimization through next generation developments.”
Parallelogram-type front linkage
The 395 front shovel is engineered with a parallelogram-type front linkage, coupled with a master cylinder that allows the operator to extract the machine’s maximum capability.
By keeping the bucket parallel to the ground, the operator can optimize penetration, loading, sorting and breaking, and complete a smooth floor clean-up.
“Building the 395 FS around the next generation cab, we’ve also fitted a fixed riser which allows the operator to see above the side of the truck body while loading,” Migeotte said. “Premium work task visibility helps increase both productivity and worksite safety.”
Inside, the cab features an ergonomic seat, a touchscreen display, climate control and noise insulation, along with vibration reduction, all contributing to a more comfortable and efficient operating experience.
