How to Use an Excavator: A Comprehensive Guide with CAT 320 as an Example

Hey guys, have you ever seen those big, strong machines that are found in construction sites? Their name is excavators and they are the heavy-duty super heroes of building, mining and landscaping. They can create huge holes, drag huge rocks and remove a lot of soil.

Operating an excavator is not only fun but also necessary. Whether you are planning to work in construction in the future or are just interested, it is a skill that can help you stay safe and improve your efficiency at work, and we are going to tell you how to do it using the CAT 320 as our example.

So, without further ado, let’s get into it!

Table of Contents

1. What Is Cat 320 Excavator?

The CAT 320 is one of the strongest and most versatile construction equipment developed by Caterpillar Inc. It is seen everywhere in construction sites because it is efficient and reliable.

Key features of the CAT 320 excavator:

• Powerful engine: It has a Cat C7.1 ACERT™ engine. This engine is powerful enough that it enables the machine to perform even the most difficult tasks, as if it were a bodybuilder.
• Advanced hydraulic system: The hydraulic system is also high performance; it responds quickly due to its design. It is like when you react to catch a ball. This means that it is possible to increase the productivity of work in a short period of time.
• Durable structure: It is designed to last and is built to withstand tough conditions. You can imagine it as a strong warrior that can work under any tough conditions and continue to work for a long time.
• Comfortable operator environment: The cab is large and designed to provide comfort to the operator. It is like sitting on a comfortable and soft chair in your house. As a result, you will not get too tired when you work for long hours.
• Versatile performance: It is designed for a variety of digging applications. Paving? Done. Creating building foundations? Done. Landscaping? Done. Even for mining! It is like having a jack of all trades.
• Efficient digging capabilities: It can dig up to 6720 mm deep. That’s very deep! It can extend up to 9850 mm and discharge material up to 7110 mm (may vary slightly from one model to another). It’s like having super long arms.
• Easy maintenance: The important components of the machine are easily accessible. When it comes to routine service, it is not a big problem. It is like when you can easily take apart and put back together a simple toy.

Remember, the specific features can slightly differ depending on the configuration of the model and manufacturer’s specifications. So always check with the manufacturer’s specifications.

2. How to Use an Excavator like CAT 320?

Working with an excavator requires courage and strength. Whether it is for setting up a new structure or for clearing away wreckage, one has to know what they are doing. This section talks about how to use a CAT 320 excavator, one of the most common and popular models used in constructions sites all over the world. With the help of this step-by-step guide, you will be able to safely and effectively operate this powerful piece of equipment.

Tip: The steps may be a little different for a different model or brand of excavator. So, before you begin, check the manual or the manufacturer’s website.

Step 1: Pre-Operation Checks

• Read the user manual: Get the CAT 320 excavator’s user manual. It is like a map that explains the controls, safety tips and how to use the machine.
• Do a walk – around inspection: Walk around the machine. Check for any damage you can see, if a part looks like it’s broken or comes loose. Confirm that the tracks (the moving parts on the bottom), the undercarriage (the bottom of the machine) and the attachments (the tools like the bucket) are ok. It’s like checking your bike before you hop on it.
• Check fluid levels: Make sure the engine oil, hydraulic oil, coolant and fuel are topped up as they should be. These fluids are the lifeblood and energy sources of the machine; if they are not correct, the machine will not operate optimally, just like a car cannot run without fuel.
• Inspect the cab: Make sure there is no dust or any other particles in the cab. Also, make sure that all the gauges and instruments are okay. It is like making sure your car’s dashboard is showing the right information.
• Check the attachments: Ensure that the bucket, the stick, and the boom are well fitted and in good working condition. These are the machine’s tools, your pen and paper for school, if you like.

Step 2: Start the Engine

• Activate the power source: First, switch on the battery switch, and any other switches that are required to be on before starting the vehicle. It’s like switching on the power of your video game system.
• Start the engine: Start the engine by switching on the starter switch, so the engine warms up. It’s like when you start your car in the morning.
• Check engine functions: You need to check whether the engine is working fine. Also, you should watch the gauges for any possible malfunction. It’s like listening to your car so that it tells you that there is something wrong.

Step 3: Position the Excavator

• Move the excavator: To move the excavator, use the track controls to take the excavator to the work area. Do not take it up slopes or on unstable ground. It’s like taking a big, heavy toy and putting it where you want it to be.
• Level the excavator: If necessary, level the tracks of the excavator to level the excavator. This makes it more stable. It’s like making sure your table is level so your drinks don’t spill.
• Extend the stabilizers (optional): To increase stability, lower the stabilizers. It’s like using training wheels on a bike.

Step 4: Operate the Excavator

• Familiarize with controls: Figure out what each joystick and lever is for. There are ones for the boom, stick, bucket, and track movement. It’s like learning the buttons on a new video game controller.
• Operate the boom: Use the boom joystick to lift and lower the boom. But don’t forget how much the excavator can lift. It’s like raising and lowering a big arm.
• Extend and retract the stick: Use the stick joystick to extend and retract the stick. This changes the range and angle of the bucket’s reach. It’s like stretching and pulling back a long pole.
• Operate the bucket: Use the right joystick or lever to open and close the bucket. You can use it to scoop, load and dump things. It’s like using a big spoon.
• Fine–tune movements: Use the precision of the joystick to make small, careful tweaks and adjustments. This lets you dig and place things just where you need them. It’s like drawing a really detailed picture.

Step 5: Adjust to the Job

• Adapt to the terrain: The way of digging and locating the excavator also changes with the type of ground or obstacles available. It is like changing the way of walking when on a rocky terrain.
• Manage loads: You should know how much load the excavator can take to avoid overloading it. You can check the bucket capacity markings for this. It is like not putting too much stuff in your backpack.
• Maintain visibility: Make sure that the work area is clean and free from obstacles in order to have a good visibility. If you have to, use mirrors or other equipment. It is like cleaning your glasses so that you can see better.

Step 6: Shut Down and Secure the Excavator

• Stop the engine: Turn off the engine, the way the manufacturer prescribed it. Similar to turning off your car when you get to your house.
• Secure the attachments: Check that the bucket, stick, and boom are in a safe position so that they are not going to get damaged or injure someone. It’s like putting your toys away safely.
• Retract the stabilizers (if used): Return the stabilizers to the position they were in previously. It’s like folding up your training wheels.
• Park the excavator: Set the excavator in a safe, level location, so it doesn’t touch anything that could be harmful. It’s like parking your car in a safe spot.
• Perform post-operation checks: See if there is any damage to the excavator and if there is any part that is wearing out. Do any required repairs or maintenance. It’s like checking your bike after you ride it.

Extra Safety Precautions

• Wear protective gear: Always use a helmet, boots, gloves, and either earplugs or earmuffs when handling the excavator. These are the things that make you safe as if wearing a shield.
• Maintain clearance: Stay out of the way of overhead power lines, cliffs, and other hazards. It’s like not to touch a hot stove.
• Follow procedures: Always use safety instructions and guidelines provided by the manufacturer of the machine. These rules are there to help you in the same way that a safety net supports you.
• Train and supervise: Make sure that everyone who handles the excavator is properly trained and monitored, especially if they are working in close proximity to other people. It is like having a coach when you are learning a new sport.

If you follow these steps and safety rules, you can use a CAT 320 excavator safely and get all kinds of construction and digging jobs done.

3. Where Can You Find CAT 320 Excavators for Sale?

The CAT 320 excavator is very popular on construction and mining sites due to its strength and versatility.

In this part, we will explore the various methods of identifying the suitable CAT 320 excavator based on your requirements and the budget you have in mind.

3.1 Purchase from Authorized CAT Dealers

The best way to get new and used CAT 320 excavators is through Caterpillar’s authorized dealers. These dealerships have a large collection of machines and also offer financial and post-sales services.

They can give you all the information about the machine, the manufacturing process, and what you should do to maintain it. It’s as if you are in a shop that has all the knowledge about the product.

3.2 Buy a Used One from a Trade Company

There may also be CAT 320 excavators available as used units. You can try to find them from the local trade companies or even from other countries. These used machines are usually from people or small enterprises that are either upgrading their equipment or have temporary need for new equipment due not continuing in business.

For example, Hongying Used Machinery in China is a good supplier. They deal with used excavators, heavy trucks, trailers, and other construction equipment. They have been doing this for the past 14 years and have a large inventory of used excavators that are in good condition yet not very expensive.

When you are buying from a private seller, you must know the history of the machine, where it has been, and if it has any issues. It’s like buying a used bike and making sure it’s in good condition.

3.3 Secure a Deal from Auctions

Heavy equipment auctions are an excellent way to acquire CAT 320 excavators at lower prices. They can be an online or in-person auction. There will be a variety of machines of various capacities and condition.

However, when you are buying from an auction, it is usually the final price. So, take your time to inspect the equipment and come up with your budget. It’s like a huge and fun shopping festival, but you need to be careful.

3.4 Check the Online Marketplaces

Check the Online Marketplaces Some of the most common websites to buy and sell construction equipment include MachineryTrader.com, IronPlanet.com, and EquipmentTrader.com. You can look for CAT 320 excavators on these sites.

You can sort the machines by location, price, and condition. But before you buy it, check the seller’s reputation. Request many pictures and details of the machine. It’s like shopping online but for heavy machinery.

FAQs

Q: How much does a CAT 320 excavator weigh?

A: The weight of a CAT 320 excavator can vary depending on the specific model and configuration, but it typically weighs between 20 and 30 tons.

Q: What is the maximal digging depth of a CAT 320 excavator?

A: The maximal digging depth of a CAT 320 excavator can vary depending on the attachments and configuration, but it typically ranges from 15 to 20 feet.

Q: Can I operate a CAT 320 excavator without any training?

A: It is not recommended to operate any excavator without proper training and certification. Operating heavy equipment requires a high level of skill and knowledge, and failure to do so can result in serious accidents and injuries.

Final Wrap-Up

In this article, we’ve shared with you our thoughts on how to use an excavator, like the well-known Cat 320. You may think that using an excavator can be tough, especially if you’re new to it.

But if you follow the steps we have shared, you’ll be able to use it safely and rather effectively. First of all, always follow the safety rules and plan your work, and do not forget about the equipment maintenance.

So, if you are looking for a CAT 320 excavator, especially a preowned excavator, then select the one that suits you among the ones discussed above, like the Hongying Used Machinery. You got this.