312D Hydraulic Excavator

Overview

Specifications

Benefits & Features

Standard / Optional Equip.

Overview

312D Hydraulic Excavator

Achieve high productivity and lower operating costs with the Cat® 312D Hydraulic Excavator. Unmatched versatility, improved controllability, easy operation and a comfortable, redesigned operator station help make the 312D an industry-leading performer.
Specifications

Engine

Engine Model
Cat® C4.2 ACERT™
Cat® C4.2 ACERT™
Flywheel Power
89.9 hp
67 kW
Gross Power
96.6 hp
72 kW
Benefits & Features
Engine
Clean, quiet operation and superior power with ACERT™ Technology.
» Learn More


Hydraulics
High efficiency and performance with low effort and precise control.
» Learn More


Electronic Control Systems
Engine and hydraulics management for maximum performance and safety.
» Learn More


Specifications

Engine

Engine Model
Cat® C4.2 ACERT™
Cat® C4.2 ACERT™
Flywheel Power
89.9 hp
67 kW
Gross Power
96.6 hp
72 kW
Bore
4.02 in
102 mm
Stroke
5.12 in
130 mm
Displacement
259.35 in3
4.25 L
Net Power
89.9 hp
67 kW
Net Power – SAE J1349
89.9 hp
67 kW

Weights

Operating Weight
28925 lb
13120 kg
Operating Weight – Standard Undercarriage
28925 lb
13120 kg

Swing Mechanism

Swing Speed
12.4 RPM
12.4 RPM
Swing Torque
22828 ft-lb
30950 N·m

Drive

Maximum Drawbar Pull
25628 lb
114 kN
Travel Speed
3.4 mph
5.5 km/h

Hydraulic System

Main Implement System – Maximum Flow (2x)
33.6 gal/min
127 L/min
Maximum Pressure – Implements
4424 psi
30500 kPa
Maximum Pressure – Travel
5076 psi
35000 kPa
Maximum Pressure – Swing
3336 psi
23000 kPa
Pilot System – Maximum Flow
9.5 gal/min
36 L/min
Pilot System – Maximum Pressure
598 psi
4120 kPa
Boom Cylinder – Bore
4.33 in
110 mm
Boom Cylinder – Stroke
39.96 in
1015 mm
Stick Cylinder – Bore
4.72 in
120 mm
Stick Cylinder – Stroke
47.13 in
1197 mm
Bucket Cylinder – Bore
3.94 in
100 mm
Bucket Cylinder – Stroke
36.97 in
939 mm

Service Refill Capacities

Fuel Tank
66 gal
250 L
Cooling System
4.7 gal
17.9 L
Engine Oil
5.2 gal
19.5 L
Final Drive (each)
0.79 gal
3 L
Hydraulic System (including Tank)
42.8 gal
162 L
Hydraulic Tank
39.6 gal
150 L
Swing Drive
0.79 gal
3 L

Standards

Cab/FOGS
SAE J1356 FEB88 ISO 10262
SAE J1356 FEB88 ISO 10262
Cab/ROPS
ISO 12117-2:2008
ISO 12117-2:2008

Sound Performance

Performance
Performance
Performance

Benefits & Features

Performance

The Cat® C4.2 engine with ACERT™ Technology offers more engine power and runs at lower speeds for better fuel efficiency and reduced wear.

Automatic Engine Control and Fuel Delivery

A three-stage control with one-touch command maximizes fuel efficiency and reduces sound levels. Fuel delivery is managed by the ADEM™ A4 engine controller for the best performance per liter of fuel used. Flexible fuel mapping allows the engine to respond quickly to varying application needs. Electronic controls govern the fuel injection system. Multiple injection fuel delivery involves a high level of precision. By precisely shaping the combustion cycle, combustion chamber temperatures are lower so fewer emissions are generated and fuel combustion is optimized – meaning more work output for your fuel cost.

Crankshaft and Pistons

A forged, one-piece, induction-hardened crankshaft enhances balance, decreases vibration and improves abrasion resistance. Heat resistant, aluminum alloy pistons have short compression height for greater efficiency and longer life.

Economy Mode

Economy mode helps balance the demands of performance and fuel economy while maintaining breakout forces and lift capacity enjoyed at standard power.

On Demand Power Supply (ODPS)

ODPS constantly regulates engine power supply based on the power demanded by the hydraulic system. Fuel consumption and machine noise is reduced in light duty applications.

Electronic Control Module (ECM)

Working as the brain of the engine’s control system, ECM responds quickly to operating variables to maximize engine efficiency. Fully integrated with sensors in the engine’s fuel, air, coolant and exhaust systems, the ECM stores and relays information on conditions such as rpm, fuel consumption and diagnostics.

Air Cleaner

The radial seal air filter features a double layered filter core for more efficient filtration. A warning is displayed on the monitor when dust accumulates above a preset level.
Engine
Clean, quiet operation and superior power with ACERT™ Technology.
» Learn More


Outstanding Performance

With 35 kPa hydraulic pressure for additional lift, swing torque and breakout forces, the 312D hydraulic system is designed for high efficiency and performance. Auxiliary hydraulic and electrical lines are routed to the boom foot, making hydraulic circuit installation easy. Shorter tubes and lines reduce friction and pressure drops for a more efficient use of power.
  • Flow is reduced to a minimum when controls are in neutral to reduce fuel consumption and extend component life.
  • Electronic Under Speed Control electronically adjusts pump output to not exceed engine power, preventing the need to reserve engine power to avoid engine stalls.
  • Hydraulic Cross-Sensing System uses two hydraulic pumps to 100 percent of engine power under all operating conditions to improve productivity with faster implement speeds and quicker, stronger pivot turns.

Pilot System

The pilot system is independent from the main pumps and controls the front linkage, swing and travel operations.

Boom and Stick Regeneration Circuit

The boom and stick regeneration circuit saves energy during boom-down and stick-in operation to increase efficiency and lower operating costs.

Electronic Control System

Ten settings for hydraulic pump flow and pressure can be preset, eliminating the need to adjust the hydraulics each time a tool is changed. Ex factory Cat® Work Tools matching the machine size class are standard preset.

Auxiliary Valve

The auxiliary valve is standard. Control circuits allowing operation of high and medium pressure tools such as shears, grapples, hammers, pulverizers, etc., are optional.

Hydraulic Cylinder Snubbers

Located at the rod-end of the boom cylinders and both ends of the stick cylinder, hydraulic cylinder snubbers cushion shocks while reducing sound levels and extending component life.
Hydraulics
High efficiency and performance with low effort and precise control.
» Learn More


Monitor Display Screen

The full-color Liquid Crystal Display (LCD) monitor provides machine information. The master caution lamp blinks ON and OFF when one of the following critical conditions occurs: engine oil pressure low, coolant temperature high or hydraulic oil temperature high. Under normal conditions or the default condition, the monitor display screen is divided into four display areas for clock and throttle dial, gauge, event display and multi-information. The gauge area displays fuel level, hydraulic oil temperature and coolant temperature.

Auxiliary Hydraulic Options

Work tool functionality has increased the versatility of the machine with the enhancements of the following:
  • A combined system enables one or two pump flow in one or two directions. With this system only one hydraulic circuit is required.
  • The tool control system stores up to 10 different tool settings through the in-cab display monitor. Cat Work Tools are selectable with preset flows and pressures.

Product Link

Using satellite technology, Product Link assists with fleet management by tracking hours, location and product health to Cat customers and dealers.
Electronic Control Systems
Engine and hydraulics management for maximum performance and safety.
» Learn More


The spacious, quiet and comfortable operator station assures high productivity during a long work day.
  • Switches, dials and controls are conveniently located within easy reach of the operator.
  • The monitor is easy to see and helps maximize visibility.
  • The standard air suspension seats adjust to suit the operator’s size and weight.
  • The pressurized cab provides positive filtered ventilation and fresh or recirculated air can be selected.
  • Visibility is maximized with the elimination of window frames for all glass except the rear window. A large, polycarbonate skylight offers excellent upward visibility.

Hydraulic Activation Control Lever

For added safety, the hydraulic activation control lever must be in the operate position to activate the machine control functions.

Controls

The 312D uses pilot operated control levers positioned so the operator can operate with arms on the armrests. The vertical stroke is longer than the horizontal to reduce operator fatigue. Joysticks with integrated buttons and sliding switches control all implement and swing functions. The sliding switches modulate control for hydro-mechanical tools and help increase operator comfort and reduce fatigue.

Prestart Check and Monitor Display

Prior to starting the machine, the system checks for low engine oil, hydraulic oil and engine coolant fluid levels and will warn the operator through a color Liquid Crystal Display (LCD) monitor. The LCD monitor displays vital operating and performance information in 27 different languages for operator convenience.

Cab Exterior – Roll Over Protective Structure (ROPS)

The 312D ROPS cab design allows the Falling Object Guard System (FOGS) to be bolted directly to the cab, at the factory or as an attachment. This enables the machine to meet specifications and job site requirements. A ROPS cab is standard and provides 10 percent more glass area than the previous non-ROPS cab. The cab shell is attached to the frame with viscous rubber cab mounts that dampen vibrations and sound levels to enhance operator comfort. Also standard on the cab are working lights with time delay functionality. They have auto shut-off capability – programmable up to 90 seconds – to support safe egress out of the machine and easy departure from the job site.
Operator Station
New levels of comfort, visibility and operation.
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Caterpillar uses advanced engineering and software to analyze all structures, creating a durable, reliable machine for the toughest applications. More than 70 percent of the structural welds are robotic and achieve over three times the penetration of manual welds. These structural components and the undercarriage are the backbone of the machine’s durability.

Carbody Design

X-shaped, box section carbody provides excellent resistance to torsional bending. Track roller frames are press-formed, pentagonal units that deliver exceptional strength and service life. Integral to the track roller frame are the standard idler and center guards, which help maintain track alignment when traveling or working on slopes.

Travel Motors

Travel motors with automatic speed selection let the 312D automatically shift up and down from high and low speed in a smooth, controlled manner.
Structures
Excellent stability and maneuverability.
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Built for performance and long service life, Cat® booms and sticks are welded, box-section structures with thick multi-plate, high strength steel fabrications.
Linkage
Reliable and versatile.
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Work Tools

Cat® Work Tools are designed to function as an integral part of your excavator and provide the best possible performance in your particular application. All work tools are performance-matched to Cat machines.

Quick Couplers

Cat® Center-Lock™ Pin Grabber Couplers allow work tools to be changed quickly, improving production and increasing machine versatility. This coupler will engage and disengage any Cat Bucket or Work Tool equipped with pins. The Center-Lock Pin Grabber Coupler gives operators confidence through its locking system and visible locking mechanism. At the heart of the center-lock is over-center locking technology. This technology uses proven principles of physics to keep the coupler locked tight.

Buckets

Cat offers a wide range of specialized buckets to meet your needs. The Cat® K Series™ Tooth System provides more wear material, longer tip and adapter life, a one-piece vertical drive retainer, reliable tip retention along with easy installation and removal to improve performance and penetration.

Shears

Shears provide superior and effective scrap processing and are highly productive in demolition environments.

Hammers

Hammers deliver very high blow rates, increasing productivity in demolition and construction applications.

Vibratory Plate Compactors

Vibratory plate compactors integrate perfectly with the Cat Hammer line – brackets and hydraulic kits are fully interchangeable between the two.

Orange Peel Grapples

Constructed of high-strength, wear-resistant steel with a low and compact design, the orange peel grapples are ideal for dump clearance. There are several choices of tines and shells.

Multi-Grapples

Unlimited left and right rotation makes the multi-grapple the ideal tool for stripping, sorting, handling and loading. The powerful closing force of the grab shells combined with fast opening/closing time ensures rapid cycle time which translates into more tons per hour.

Multi-Processors

With its single basic housing design, the multi-processor series of hydraulic demolition equipment makes it possible to use a range of jaw sets that can handle any demolition job. The multi-processor is the most versatile demolition tool on the market.
Versatility
Combinable hydraulic and tool solutions for any job.
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Emissions

The Cat® C4.2 with ACERT™ Technology introduces a series of evolutionary, incremental improvements that provide breakthrough engine technology built on systems and components developed by Caterpillar with proven reliability. The technology capitalizes on Caterpillar expertise in three core engine systems: fuel, air and electronics. By combining ACERT Technology with the new Economy Mode, customers can balance the demands of performance and fuel economy to suit their requirements and application.

Fewer Leaks and Spills

Engine oil and encapsulated hydraulic oil filters are positioned vertically and are easy to reach to minimize spillage. Service intervals are extended to reduce the times fluids are changed and handled.
  • Hydraulic oil service interval can be extended to 4,000 hours with the S·O·SSM program.
  • In addition to the S·O·S program, fine filtration system attachment extends the service interval to 5,000 hours.
  • Cat Extended Life Coolant extends service to 12,000 hour, less need for fluid disposal.
  • The hydraulic system is compatible with Cat HEES™ hydraulic bio-oil for ecologically sensitive applications.

Environment
Building a better world while preserving the environment.
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Extended Service Intervals

312D service and maintenance intervals have been extended to reduce machine service time and increase machine availability.

Air Filter Compartment

The air filter features a double-element construction for superior cleaning efficiency. When the air cleaner plugs, a warning is displayed on the monitor screen inside the cab.

Ground Level Service

The design and layout of the 312D were made with the service technician in mind. Many service locations are easily accessible at ground level, allowing critical maintenance to get done quickly and efficiently.

Pump Compartment

A service door on the right side of the upper structure allows ground-level access to the pump and pilot filter.

Capsule Filter

The hydraulic return filter, a capsule filter, is situated outside the hydraulic tank. This filter prevents contaminants from entering the system when hydraulic oil is changed and keeps the operation clean.

Diagnostics and Monitoring

The 312D is equipped with S·O·SSM sampling ports and hydraulic test ports for the hydraulic system, engine oil and coolant. A test connection for the Cat Electronic Technician (Cat ET) service tool is located behind the cab.

Anti-Skid Plate

Anti-skid plate covers the top of the storage box and upper structure to prevent slipping during maintenance.

Fan Guard

Engine radiator fan is completely enclosed by fine wire mesh, reducing the risk of an accident.

Grease Points

A concentrated remote greasing block on the boom delivers grease to hard-to-reach locations on the front.

Radiator Compartment

The left rear service door allows easy access to the engine radiator, oil cooler and air-to-air aftercooler. Reserve tank and drain cock are attached to the radiator for simplified maintenance.
Serviceability
Simplified service and maintenance saves time and money.
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Machine Selection

Make detailed comparisons of the machines you are considering before you buy. What are the job requirements, machine attachments and operating hours? What production is needed? Your Cat dealer can provide recommendations.

Purchase

Consider the financing options available as well as the day-to-day operating costs. This is also the time to look at dealer services that can be included in the cost of the machine to yield lower equipment owning and operating costs over the long run.

Customer Support Agreements

Cat dealers offer a variety of product support agreements and work with customers to develop a plan that best meets specific needs. These plans can cover the entire machine, including attachments, to help protect your investment.

Operation

Improving operating techniques can boost your profits. Your Cat dealer has videos, literature and other ideas to help you increase productivity, and Caterpillar offers certified operator training classes to help maximize the return on your investment.

Product Support

You will find nearly all parts at our dealer parts counters. Cat dealers utilize a worldwide computer network to find in-stock parts to minimize machine downtime. You can save money with Cat Remanufactured components.

Maintenance Services

Repair option programs guarantee the cost of repairs up front. Diagnostic programs such as Scheduled Oil Sampling, Coolant Sampling and Technical Analysis help you avoid unscheduled repairs.

Replacement

Repair, rebuild or replace? Your Cat dealer can help you evaluate the cost involved so you can make the right choice.
Customer Support
Unmatched support makes the difference.
» Learn More


Standard / Optional Equip.

312D Standard Equipment

AUXILIARY CONTROLS AND LINES
Auxiliary boom lines (high pressure)
Auxiliary stick lines (high pressure)
Basic control arrangements:
High pressure control group for center-lock quick coupler
Cooling circuit for auxiliary hydraulics
Universal control group for quick coupler
Hammer return filter circuit
ELECTRICAL
Alarm, travel
Alternator, 50 A
Cat® battery
Circuit breaker
Warning horn (front)
Water level indicator
Working light, boom (right side)
Working light, storage box mounted
Working lights, cab mounted
Rearview camera
ENGINE
Cat® C4.2 diesel engine with ACERT™ Technology, Altitude capability to 2300 m
52° C cooling capability
Air inlet heater for low ambient starting
Automatic engine speed control with push button return to idle
24V electric starting
Cat® Extended Life Coolant
Radial seal air filters with double element, integrated cyclonic
Water separator in fuel line
Secondary engine shut-off switch
Fuel economy mode
Fuel filter, 2 micron
Radiator, waved fin with side-by-side type oil cooler
FRONT LINKAGE
Boom (with two working lights), Reach 4650 mm
Boom lowering check valve
Bucket linkage, B linkage with lifting eye
Stick, 2500 mm
Stick lowering check valve
GUARDS
Guard, bottom
Guards, track motor
Guard, swivel
OPERATOR STATION
Adjustable armrests
Air conditioner, heater and defroster with automatic climate control
Ashtray and 24V lighter
Beverage cup holder
Bolt-on FOGS capability
Converters, 7A/12V (2)
Floor mat, washable
Instrument panel and gauges with full color graphical display, start-up level checks
Joysticks (2) thumb wheel
Laminated front windshield
Literature compartment
Lunch box storage with lid
Mirrors, left and right
Neutral lever (lock-out) for all controls
Radial windshield wiper and washer (upper and lower)
Positive filtered ventilation, pressurized cab
Rear window, emergency exit
Retractable seat belt
ROPS cab
Seat, adjustable, high back, heated with air suspension
Sliding upper door window
Stationary skylight (polycarbonate)
Storage compartment suitable for a lunch box
Sunscreen for windshield and skylight
Travel control pedals with removable hand levers
Windshield 70-30 split, sliding
SHOES
Shoes, triple grouser, 500 mm
UNDERCARRIAGE
Automatic swing parking brake
Automatic travel parking brakes
Grease lubricated tracks
Hydraulic track adjusters
Idler and center section track guiding guards
Two-speed travel
OTHER STANDARD EQUIPMENT
Boom and stick drift reducing valve
Boom and stick regeneration circuit
Counterweight, 2450 kg
Cat® one key security system with locks for doors, cab and fuel cap
Cat® Data Link and capability for Cat Electronic Technician
Full-steel firewall between engine and hydraulic pump compartment
Mirrors (frame right, cab left)
Precleaner
Product Link 321
Reverse swing damping valve
Separate hydraulic filter with reusable metal tube for filter element – no drop oil filter
S·O·SSM quick sampling valves for engine oil, hydraulic oil and coolant

312D Optional Equipment

AccuGrade™ Basic, Laser and GPS ready
Bucket linkage
Cold weather start
Front windshield guard
Hand control pattern changer
Heavy-duty bottom guard
Rain protector
Side steel bumper
Secondary exit, rear window
Stick and boom configurations
• 3.0 m stick
• 2.8 m stick
• 2.5 m stick
Sun shade
Vandalism protection
 

About Cat

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Our Company

Caterpillar is the world's leading manufacturer of construction and mining equipment, diesel and natural gas engines, industrial gas turbines and diesel-electric locomotives.