The Caterpillar 323 excavator is proving to be a great go-to machine for contractors needing a machine that can take on challenging job-sites while keeping employees safe.
C. Laney and Sons Construction does a lot of work in high altitude areas in and around the Great Smokey Mountains in Tennessee and uses the CAT 323 model.
“Our sites are very demanding on the operator, and the equipment. It’s easy to get hurt if you're not paying attention,” said Laney and Sons President Charles Laney.
“You need the best equipment and you need the best technology.”
Laney and Sons has a limited number of machines including a CAT 299 skid steer to a CAT 336 excavator. According to Laney, the addition of the CAT 323 Next Generation excavator has helped the company take on challenging tasks.
“We can use it for utilities and loading trucks. It’s small enough to move easily in mountainous terrain."
The CAT 323 is more fuel efficient than the 323F, showing about 18% fuel savings. Operators say the touchpad takes a little getting used to, especially for the veterans. But the touchpad eliminates the need to pivot around the machine to reach certain controls.
"In the end it makes your job more efficient," said Laney.
Another feature of the CAT 323 is the 2D system that allows operators to set a dig length and simply let the machine repeat the task. An e-fence feature provides automatic swing stop, eliminating the need for a physical fence for the front of the machine.
The technology of the CAT 323 also provides the operator with data such as terrain grade, dig depth, load weight, along with operating system information. With the new technology, updates can be installed in the machine, giving the operator new capabilities.
All of this technology isn't just neat, it saves companies like Laney and Sons time and money.
