Caterpillar 320 GC, 320, 323 Hydraulic Excavators

Three 20-ton-size-class Caterpillar excavators (320 GC, 320, and 323) have combinations of features aimed at three different user groups with different productivity and cost targets.

Caterpillar says each unit increases operating efficiency and lowers fuel and maintenance costs compared to previous models. Each machine also features a new cab.

The Cat 320 excavator has integrated Cat Connect Technology designed to advance productivity. Standard technology combined with lower fuel and maintenance costs are meant to deliver low-cost production in medium- to heavy-duty applications.

Designed for low- to medium-duty applications, the value-priced Cat 320 GC combines a balance of productivity features with reduced fuel consumption and maintenance costs toward the goal of low cost-per-hour performance. A premium-priced Cat 323 has standard integrated Cat Connect Technology and the most power and lift capacity of the three. These features combine with lower fuel consumption and reduced maintenance costs to deliver maximum productivity of the Caterpillar excavators, the company says.

The Cat 320 excavator and 323 offer the Cat Grade with 2D system, featuring machine guidance for depth, slope, and horizontal distance to grade. Using the system’s E-fence feature enables the machine to work under structures or near traffic by preventing any part of the excavator from moving outside operator-defined set points. The standard 2D system can be upgraded to Cat Grade with Advanced 2D or Cat Grade with 3D.

Standard Grade Assist automates boom, stick, and bucket movements, so operators stay on grade with single-lever digging. Cat Payload on-board weighing, integrated on the Cat 320 excavator and 323 at the factory, is engineered to deliver load targets and increased loading efficiency with on-the-go weighing and real-time payload estimates without swinging to prevent truck over/under-loading. Cat LINK hardware and software connect job sites to the office and provide customers with machine-critical operating information.

Cat ACERT engines provide duty-matched power ratings from 121 to 162 horsepower for the three Caterpillar excavators. Smart mode operation automatically matches engine and hydraulic power to digging conditions to optimize fuel consumption and performance. The machines consume 20 to 25 percent less fuel than the previous, corresponding models. Engine speed is automatically lowered when there is no hydraulic demand, further reducing fuel usage.

A new cooling system employs multiple electric fans that independently monitor hydraulic oil, radiator, and air-to-air aftercooler temperatures to deliver the airflow required. In the hydraulic system, the Cat 320 GC, 320, and 323 feature a new main control valve that eliminates the need for pilot lines, reduces pressure losses, and lowers fuel consumption. Fewer hydraulic lines on the excavators result in 20 percent less oil required, Caterpillar says.

All cabs come equipped with standard features like keyless push-button start, large 8-inch touchscreen monitor with jog dial keys for control, and sound-suppressed ROPS for safety and quiet operation. Programmable joystick buttons for response and pattern allow the operator to dial in productivity settings. New advanced viscous mounts reduce cab vibration by up to 50 percent over previous models.

Caterpillar 320 GC, 320 & 323 Excavator Specs