Used Caterpillar 345 Excavator

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Here is a detailed introduction to the Caterpillar 345 hydraulic excavator in English.

Caterpillar 345 Hydraulic Excavator: Comprehensive Overview

The Cat® 345 hydraulic excavator represents a significant leap forward in the 45-tonne class, combining high production, advanced technology, low operating costs, and excellent operator comfort. Part of Caterpillar’s next-generation excavator line-up, the 345 is engineered to tackle heavy construction, quarrying, demolition, and infrastructure projects with greater efficiency and reliability than ever before. It replaces the previous 345F model with improvements in every aspect—from the engine and hydraulics to the cab and digital integration.

Engine and Powertrain

At the heart of the Cat 345 is the Cat C9.3B diesel engine. This 9.3-litre, six-cylinder engine delivers a net power of 258 kW (346 hp) at 1,700 rpm. It meets stringent EU Stage V and U.S. EPA Tier 4 Final emission standards through a combination of advanced technologies, including a diesel oxidation catalyst (DOC), selective catalytic reduction (SCR), and a diesel particulate filter (DPF), all without requiring a diesel exhaust fluid (DEF) for some market configurations.

The engine is equipped with an automatic idle shutdown system and an intelligent engine speed control that seamlessly matches engine rpm to the hydraulic demand, reducing fuel consumption. A programmable engine auto-shutdown timer further saves fuel when the machine is idling. The cooling system features a hydraulically driven, variable-speed fan that only runs as needed, reducing noise and fuel draw. For operations in extreme ambient conditions, the machine can be configured with a high-ambient capability package that maintains full performance up to 52 °C (125 °F) without de-rating.

Advanced Hydraulic System

The 345 uses a state-of-the-art electrohydraulic system that delivers impressive responsiveness and efficiency. The main hydraulic pumps provide a maximum flow of up to 2 x 280 L/min, enabling quick cycle times and powerful breakout forces. The system is designed for precision: the main control valve prioritises flow to the functions the operator demands, minimising losses and delivering smooth, combined movements.

Smart mode is a standard feature that automatically matches engine and hydraulic power to the working conditions. It senses the load and adjusts accordingly, saving fuel during lighter work and providing full power instantly when heavy digging is required. Additionally, the hydraulic system can be customised with auxiliary lines for a wide range of attachments, including hammers, grapples, multi-processors, and tiltrotators. Cat’s unique stick-steer functionality is optionally available, allowing the operator to control the machine’s swing and stick movements with a single joystick, greatly reducing arm movements and fatigue in trenching or slope finishing applications.

Structural Strength and Durability

The Cat 345 is built on a rugged mainframe and an X-shaped, box-section carbody that provides exceptional torsional rigidity. The reinforced undercarriage is available in both standard and long configurations, with heavy-duty track frames and sealed, lubricated track rollers and idlers that extend component life. A choice of triple grouser track shoes is offered to suit different ground conditions.

The front linkage—boom and stick—has been redesigned using advanced finite element analysis and validated through accelerated life testing. The booms are manufactured with thick, high-tensile-strength steel plates, and critical stress points are reinforced with castings and internal baffle plates. Three boom options are available: a reach boom, a mass excavation boom, and a super-long reach configuration for specific applications. Likewise, multiple stick lengths allow the 345 to be optimised for maximum digging depth, reach, or breakout force. Bucket pin breakout force reaches up to 242 kN, while stick breakout force can exceed 196 kN, placing it among the leaders in its class.

Next-Generation Cab and Operator Environment

Operator comfort and safety are paramount. The Cat 345 cab is larger and quieter than its predecessors, with an interior sound level as low as 69 dB(A). It features a heated suspension seat with adjustable lumbar support and, optionally, active ventilation. The cab is pressurised with filtered, recirculated air and an automatic climate control system, keeping the interior clean and comfortable.

The 10-inch (254 mm) high-resolution touchscreen monitor serves as the command centre. From it, the operator can quickly access machine settings, digital manuals, rearview and side-view camera feeds (standard), and advanced technology applications. Keypads and a jog dial provide redundant controls for gloved hands. LED interior lighting and a large skylight enhance visibility inside the cab, while the narrow cab pillars and extensive glass area offer excellent all-round exterior visibility. A 360° camera system is optional, providing a bird’s-eye view of the machine and the worksite to enhance safety.

Integrated Cat Technology

The 345 comes ready to boost productivity through an array of integrated Cat technologies:

Cat Grade with 2D: Standard in many regions, this system indicates depth and slope on the in-cab monitor, allowing operators to grade accurately without over-cutting. The system can be upgraded to Cat Grade with 3D, which uses GNSS and RTK positioning to follow a design plan, virtually eliminating the need for grade checkers.
Cat Payload: An on-board weighing system that provides real-time bucket payload data to prevent overloading or underloading of trucks. The data is displayed on the monitor and can be transmitted to the office via VisionLink, improving loading efficiency and fleet management.
E-Fence: A virtual wall system that prevents the excavator from operating outside pre-defined boundaries, protecting workers, structures, and utilities. It can limit boom, stick, bucket, and swing movement in two dimensions (ceiling, floor, wall, and swing boundaries).
VisionLink: Cat’s telematics platform provides actionable data on machine location, hours, fuel consumption, idle time, event codes, and utilisation trends. Fleet managers can remotely monitor the entire fleet and make informed decisions to reduce costs and improve utilisation.
Cat Lift Assist: Visual and audible alerts let the operator know if the load exceeds the machine’s rated lifting capacity, helping to prevent tipping.

Serviceability and Maintenance

Maintenance on the 345 has been significantly simplified to reduce downtime and operating costs. Key service points are grouped at ground level, including the engine oil dipstick, fuel and oil filters, water separator, and hydraulic oil level sight glass. The cooling package slides out horizontally, allowing easy cleaning from the ground. Grease points for the boom and stick pivot pins are centralised in a bank behind the cab for rapid lubrication.

Extended filter and fluid change intervals help keep the machine working. The engine oil and filter change interval is up to 500 hours, while the hydraulic oil change interval extends to 3,000 hours. The advanced hydraulic return filter has a 3,000-hour replacement interval as well. The fuel system is equipped with a primary and secondary filtration system to protect the high-pressure common-rail injection components. The machine’s software can be updated remotely via Cat Remote Flash, avoiding a service call and minimising unplanned downtime.

Attachments and Versatility

The Cat 345 is a versatile tool carrier. It can be equipped with a wide variety of Cat work tools, ranging from heavy-duty and severe-duty buckets (1.54 m³ to 3.20 m³ capacity) to hydraulic hammers, multi-processors, pulverisers, shears, and grapples. The electrohydraulic system enables programmable attachment flow and pressure settings, which can be saved as presets and recalled from the touchscreen. Coupler options include Cat’s Pin Grabber quick coupler and dedicated quick couplers for secure attachment changes without leaving the cab.

Sustainability and Fuel Efficiency

Compared to the previous generation 345F, the Cat 345 delivers up to 10% lower fuel consumption while maintaining or improving production levels. The combination of Smart mode, automatic engine speed control, reduced hydraulic system losses, and an efficient cooling fan contribute to this improvement. The engine can also run on B20 biodiesel blends, supporting sustainability goals. Cat’s commitment to remanufacturing and rebuilding components further extends the machine’s life cycle and reduces waste.

Key Specifications (Typical Configuration)

Engine Model: Cat C9.3B
Net Power (ISO 9249): 258 kW (346 hp)
Operating Weight: Ranges from approximately 44,800 kg to 47,200 kg, depending on configuration
Maximum Bucket Capacity: 3.20 m³ (heavy-duty rock bucket)
Maximum Digging Depth (reach boom, R3.9 m stick): 7,240 mm
Maximum Reach at Ground Level: 11,080 mm
Maximum Loading Height: 7,100 mm
Bucket Breakout Force (ISO): up to 242 kN
Stick Breakout Force (ISO): up to 196 kN
Swing Speed: 9.5 rpm
Drawbar Pull: 365 kN
Track Shoe Width (standard): 600 mm (multiple options available)
Hydraulic System Maximum Flow: 2 x 280 L/min
Fuel Tank Capacity: 620 L
Hydraulic Tank Capacity: 270 L

Conclusion

The Caterpillar 345 excavator is a high-production, technology-laden machine built for demanding applications. It excels in moving large volumes of material, loading trucks, heavy lifting, and precision grading. With its durable structures, fuel-efficient powertrain, advanced electrohydraulics, and an operator-centric cab, the 345 sets a new benchmark in the 45-tonne excavator segment, helping owners and operators achieve lower cost per tonne while maintaining safety and comfort.

Non flooded

No accident

Original product

Used Caterpillar 345 Excavator

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