The latest tech-packed compact radius excavators

Equipment design and technology that create a safer working environment

On job sites where excavators work close to obstructions, whether to the side, underground, or above, there may be less room for other workers, vehicles, and machines to manoeuvre. A compact radius reduces the risk of a strike from the counterweight, but the latest safety-focused technologies can provide added security for workers on the ground and prevent collisions with buildings, vehicles, and other objects.

Cameras have become increasingly standard on excavators, and all of these new machines come with rear and right-side-view cameras at a minimum. A 360-degree camera is optional on the Cat 319, while CASE offers a 270-degree camera option on the CX145E SR and CX255E SR machines. The 360-degree camera is a standard part of the Komvision 360 monitoring system on both versions of the Komatsu PC158USLC-12. 

A variety of collision mitigation and fencing features are standard or optional on these machines. Cat’s standard 2D E-fence physically stops the excavator from crossing pre-set boundaries, and Komatsu offers 2D boundary control on the PC158USLC-12 and 3D boundary control on the IMC 3.0 version.

On the CASE machines, the operator can manually pre-set height and depth warnings that audibly alert them when they are in close proximity to obstacles, like overheard powerlines.

Detection systems, like the optional Cat Detect, alert an operator to the presence of people around the machine. Komatsu’s Komvision 360 likewise integrates human and object detection to increase operator awareness.

High-tech solutions for compact radius machines

Advanced excavator technologies are standard or available on these new compact radius machines, and, for contractors who want to incorporate the latest in 3D machine control and automation, OEMs have simplified the adoption process, offering advanced optional packages straight from the factory.

The PC158USLCi-12, will be the smallest excavator that Komatsu has ever outfitted with IMC from the factory. Contractors who want the most advanced machine control and automation capabilities will appreciate the comprehensive IMC 3.0 semi-autonomous 3D machine control technology 

package that includes swing-to-line and travel-along-line, which automate travel and swing function for trenching and digging to 3D plans; advanced in-field design; auto swing for semi-automatic truck loading; an enhanced payload monitoring system; and more.

A bucket payload system and joystick travel will be standard on both the PC158USLCi-12 and the PC158USLC-12. The PC158USLC-12 will include 2D machine control as standard.

“What we heard consistently from operators, fleet managers, and business owners was the need for a tight-tail-swing excavator that delivers advanced automation without adding complexity for the operator,” says Matt Moen, product manager, excavators, Komatsu. “The PC158USLCi-12 was developed to help operators stay in control of the work while benefitting from sophisticated IMC 3.0 features that are easy for operators to use. This machine is designed to help drive accuracy, efficiency, and productivity on the job site.”

CASE’s new compact radius excavators join a select number of CASE excavators available from the factory with an advanced technology package. Payload weighing in the bucket helps operators optimize every truck during loading operations, and dynamic stability assist displays roll and pitch angles and automatically reduces rocking during dumping operations. CASE’s audible height and depth alarms are included as part of this package. In addition to the safety benefits, the system can be used to set a below-ground boundary that can serve as a grade indicate system to prevent overdigging. The Leica iCON iXE2 2D machine control and iCON iXE3 3D machine control systems are available options on both CASE machines.

Cat Grade with 2D is standard on the new 319, and a Cat Grade 3D Ready option is available. Cat Grade with Assist automates boom, stick, and bucket movements, and Cat Payload on-the-go weighing is standard. Advanced Payload is an available upgrade.

“Worksite efficiency and productivity is hugely influenced by operator confidence,” says Stellbrink. “Confidence to operate in tight spaces, confident handling of heavy loads, confident visibility, confidence in power — all these aspects are addressed in the 319, helping enhance safety, precision, and efficiency across the job site.”

To further develop operator confidence, Cat offers an optional Operator Coaching feature for the 319. This system provides learning opportunities that can help less experienced operators be more productive and reduce wear on the machine.