324E L/LN^Non-Current

Cat® C7.1 ACERT™ Engine

The Cat C7.1 ACERT engine delivers more horsepower using less fuel than the previous series engine.

Emissions Solution

The C7.1 ACERT engine is equipped to meet Stage IIIB emission standards. Driven by customer input, Caterpillar's aftertreatment regeneration solution ensures the machine works as normal with no operator intervention needed. The machine comes with two modes of regeneration: automatic and manual. In automatic mode, the machine starts the regeneration process once the filtering system reaches a certain level and conditions are optimal. The system will not interrupt the work process and can regenerate during machine operation. Manual mode enables the operator to override the automatic mode. With a touch of a button inside the cab, this mode allows the operator to move the machine from flammable or heat-restricted areas before initiating the regeneration process.

Biodiesel-Ready Fuel System

The C7.1 ACERT engine is equipped with an electronic-controlled high-pressure fuel system that includes an electric priming pump and three-layer fuel hoses to allow the use of biodiesel (meeting ASTM 6751 or EN 14214) up to B20 (biodiesel 20% mixture).

Cooling System

The cooling system features side-by-side and tilt-out radiators, oil and air coolers for easy cleaning, and fan that automatically adjusts to ambient temperatures to help reduce fuel consumption and noise.

Speed and Power Control

The E Series features speed control to maintain a constant speed - regardless of load - to improve fuel economy. Three different power modes are offered: high power, standard power, and economy power. The operator can easily change between modes through the monitor or console switch to meet the needs for the job at hand - all to help manage and conserve fuel.

Seats

The seat range includes air suspension, heated, and air cooled options. All seats include a reclining back, upper and lower seat slide adjustments, and height and tilt angle adjustments to meet operator needs for comfort and productivity.

Controls

The right and left joystick consoles can be adjusted to meet individual preferences, improving operator comfort and productivity during the course of a day. With the touch of a button, one-touch idle reduces engine speed to help save fuel; touch it again or move the joystick and the machine returns to normal operating level. The heavy lift mode increases machine system pressure to improve lift - a nice benefit in certain situations. Heavy lift mode also reduces engine speed and pump flow in order to improve controllability.

Monitor

The 324E is equipped with a 7" LCD (Liquid Crystal Display) monitor that's 40% bigger than the previous model's with higher resolution for better visibility. In addition to an improved keypad and added functionality, it's programmable to provide information in a choice of 42 languages to support today's diverse workforce. An “Engine Shutdown Setting” accessible through the monitor allows owners and operators to specify how long the machine should idle before shutting down the engine, which can save significant amounts of fuel. The image of the rearview camera is displayed directly on the monitor. Up to two different camera images can be displayed on the screen.

Power Supply

Two 12-volt power supply sockets are located near key storage areas for charging electronic devices.

Storage

Storage spaces are located in the front, rear, and side consoles. A specific space near the auxiliary power supply holds MP3 players and cell phones. The drink holder accommodates large mugs with handles, and a shelf behind the seat stores large lunch or toolboxes.

Automatic Climate Control

The climate control system features five air outlets with positive filtered ventilation, which makes working in the heat and cold much more pleasant.

Hydraulic Horsepower

Hydraulic horsepower is the actual machine power available to do work through implements and work tools. It's much more than just the engine power under the hood - it's a core strength that differentiates Cat machines from other brands.

Main Control Valve and Auxiliary Valves

The 324E uses a high-pressure system to tackle the toughest of work in short order. The machine features a highly efficient and simple back-to-back main control valve to improve fuel consumption and reliability. Also, shortened spool lengths and a built-in drift reduction valve have been added for greater controllability.

Swing Priority Circuit

The swing priority circuit on the 324E uses an electric valve that's operated by the machine's Electronic Control Module (ECM). Compared to using a hydraulic valve, an electric valve allows for more finely tuned control, which is critical during material loading.

SmartBoom™

SmartBoom reduces stress and vibrations transmitted to the machine and provides a more comfortable environment. It is particularly well suited for certain applications:
• Rock scraping. SmartBoom simplifies the task and allows the operator to concentrate on stick and bucket while the boom freely goes up and down without using pump flow.
• Hammer work. The front parts automatically follow the hammer while penetrating the rock. Blank shots or excessive force on the hammer are avoided, resulting in longer life for the hammer and the machine.

Electric Boom Regeneration Valve

This valve minimizes pump flow when the boom lowers down, which helps improve fuel efficiency. It is optimized for any dial speed setting being used by the operator, which results in less pressure loss for higher controllability, more productivity, and lower operating costs.

Frame

The upper frame (1) includes reinforced mountings to support the Roll-Over Protective Structure (ROPS) cab; the lower frame is reinforced to increase component durability.

Undercarriage

Fixed gauge long and long narrow undercarriage systems are available to support various work applications. Heavy-duty track rollers, precision-forged carrier rollers, press-fit pin master joints (2), and enhanced track shoe bolts improve durability and reduce the risk of machine downtime and the need and cost to replace components. A segmented two-piece guiding guard is now offered to help maintain track alignment and improve performance in multiple applications.

Counterweights

The standard counterweight (3) weighs 4.0 mt. Super Long Reach (SLR) configurations come with a heavier 6.75 mt counterweight. Integrated links enable easy removal of the counterweight for maintenance or shipping.

Booms and Sticks

The 324E is offered with a range of booms and sticks (see list below). Each is built with internal baffle plates for added durability, and each undergoes ultrasound inspection to ensure weld quality and reliability. Large box-section structures with thick, multi-plate fabrications, castings, and forgings are used in high-stress areas such as the boom nose, boom foot, boom cylinder, and stick foot to improve durability. The boom nose pin retention method is a durable captured flag design. Boom durability is improved with a number of plate thickness changes. Also, the front linkage pins' inner bearing surfaces are welded, and a self-lubricated bearing is used to extend service intervals and increase uptime.

Selections

There are five basic boom options: HD, ES, SLR, ME, and VA. Sticks match the boom descriptions and applications below: HD = Heavy Duty - This boom is designed to balance reach, digging force, and bucket capacity. It covers the vast majority of applications such as digging, loading, trenching, and working with hydraulic tools. ES = Extreme Service - This configuration will do multipurpose digging and loading, but its added weight makes it more durable and better suited for highly demanding applications. The bucket and tool matching guides help identify which conditions require the ES front. SLR = Super Long Reach - This configuration offers reaches to over 18 m. It is well suited for ditch cleaning applications. ME = Mass Excavation - Mass is best used for quarry, high-volume loading, and other demanding applications. Mass fronts provide higher digging forces due to the geometry of the boom and stick relationship. Bucket linkage and cylinders are also built for greater durability. VA = Variable Angle - This configuration offers superb flexibility and versatility in the working envelope. Boom position can be adjusted from 90° when fully retracted to 165° and fully extended. With full extension, the working range gives maximum dig depth, reach, and working height. Equally, when retracted, it can work closer to its tracks, increase lifting capacity, and work in confined areas.

An extensive range of Cat Work Tools for the 324E includes buckets, compactors, grapples, multi-processors, scrap and demolition shears, rippers, crushers, pulverizers, hammers, and shears. Each is designed to optimize the versatility and performance of your machine.

CW Quick Couplers

Quick couplers allow one person to change work tools in seconds for maximum performance and flexibility on a job site. One machine can move rapidly from task to task, and a fleet of similarly equipped machines can share a common work tool inventory. The dedicated CW Series quick coupler enables a quick tool exchange while maintaining top machine performance. A lifting hook is added for maximum lift capacity. The CW quick coupler can pick up any work tool and is equipped with a wedge-style locking system that fits the quick coupler tight to the tool hinges. Due to the tapered wedge design, there won't be any play during its entire life. Also, it is interchangeable with different machine classes. The CW is highly suitable for harsh applications such as demolition and quarries.

Buckets

Cat buckets are designed as an integral part of the 324E system and feature new geometry for better performance. The leading edge has been pushed forward, resulting in more efficient filling and better operator control for greatly improved productivity. Wear coverage in the corners and side cutter and sidebar protector coverage are improved. All benefits are captured in a new bucket line with a new bucket naming convention.

Four Durability Categories Suitable for Any Situation

Caterpillar offers four standard bucket categories for excavators. Each category is based on intended bucket durability when used in recommended application and material. Each bucket durability is available as pin-on or can be used with a Quick Coupler. Red areas on bucket images illustrate additional protection against wear as it increases across each category.

Special Buckets

Special buckets are available for the 324E on request.

Comprehensive Product Support

All Cat Work Tools are backed up by a world-wide network of well-stocked parts depots and highly experienced service and support personnel.

Cat® Grade Control Depth and Slope

This optional system combines traditional machine control and guidance with standard factory-installed and calibrated components, making the system ready to go to work the moment it leaves the factory. The system utilizes internal front linkage sensors - well protected from the harsh working environment - to give operators real-time bucket tip position information through the cab monitor (1), which minimizes the need and cost for traditional grade checking and improves job site safety. It also helps the operator complete jobs in fewer cycles, which means less fuel use. Cat dealers can upgrade the system to full three-dimensional control by adding proven Cat AccuGrade™ positioning technologies, including GPS and Universal Total Station (UTS).

Cat Product Link

This deeply integrated machine monitoring system (2 and 3) is designed to help customers improve their overall fleet management effectiveness. Events and diagnostic codes as well as hours, fuel consumption, idle time, machine location, and other detailed information are transmitted to a secure web based application called VisionLink™, which uses powerful tools to communicate to users and dealers.

Service Doors

Wide service doors (1) and a one-piece hood provide easy access to the engine and cooling compartments. Both doors and hood feature enhanced hardware and a new screen design to help minimize debris entry.

Compartments

The radiator, pump, and air cleaner (2) compartments provide easy access to major components. The fresh air filter (3) is located on the side of the cab to make it easy to reach and replace as needed.

Other Services

The water separator with water level sensor has a primary fuel filter element located in the pump compartment near ground level; the electric priming pump is mounted on the primary filter base and is easy to service compared to a traditional hand-priming pump. The fuel tank features a remote drain cock located in the pump compartment to make it easy to remove water and sediment during maintenance. The engine oil check gauge and oil filter are situated in front of the engine compartment for easy access, and a uniquely designed drain cock helps prevent spills.

ROPS Cab

The ROPS-certified cab (1) allows a Falling Object Guard Structure (FOGS) to be bolted directly to it.

Sound Proofing

Improved sealing and cab roof lining lower noise levels inside the cab significantly during machine operation.

Anti-Skid Plates

The surface of the upper structure and the top of the storage box area are covered with anti-skid plates to help prevent service personnel and operators from slipping during maintenance.

Steps, Hand and Guard Rails

Steps on the track frame and storage box along with extended hand and guard rails (2) to the upper deck enable operators to securely work on the machine.

Time Delay Cab and Boom Lights

After the engine start key has been turned to the “OFF” position, lights will be illuminated to enhance visibility. The time delay can vary from 0 to 90 seconds, which can be set through the monitor.

High Intensity Discharge (HID) Lights

Cab lights can be upgraded to HID for greater visibility.

Visibility - Windows

Two windshield options are available: The 70/30 split configuration features an upper window equipped with handles on the top and both sides so the operator can slide it to store in the ceiling. The lower window is removable and can be stored on the left wall of the cab shell. A one-piece fixed front windshield provides operators an unobstructed forward view. The large skylight provides great overhead visibility, excellent natural lighting, and good ventilation. The skylight can be opened completely to become an emergency exit.

Wiper System

Designed to maximize visibility in poor weather conditions, the parallel wiper system covers most of the front window without leaving unwiped areas in the line of sight of the operator. The wiper motor is integrated to the upper frame so that it does not obstruct any part of the forward view.

Monitor Warning System

The monitor is equipped with a buzzer that can warn operators of critical events so they can take any necessary action.

Rearview Camera

The standard rearview camera is housed in the counterweight (3). The image projects through the cab monitor to give the operator a clear view of what is behind the machine.

Product Support

Cat dealers utilize a worldwide parts network to maximize your machines' uptime. Plus they can help you save money with Cat remanufactured components.

Machine Selection

What are the job requirements and machine attachments? What production is needed? Your Cat dealer can provide recommendations to help you make the right machine choices.

Purchase

Consider financing options and day-to-day operating costs. Look at dealer services that can be included in the machine's cost to yield lower owning and operating costs over time.

Customer Support Agreements

Cat dealers offer a variety of customer support agreements and work with you to develop a plan to meet your 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. Caterpillar also offers simulators and certified operator training to help maximize the return on your investment.

Replacement

Repair, rebuild, or replace? Your Cat dealer can help you evaluate the cost involved so you can make the best choice for your business.

• The C7.1 ACERT engine, along with the Cat Clean Emissions Module (CEM), meets EU Stage IIIB emission standards.
• Even when operating in high horsepower and high production applications, the 324E performs a similar amount of work while burning up to 7% less fuel than the previous D Series model. This means more efficiency, less resources consumed, and fewer CO2 emissions.
• The 324E has the flexibility of running on either ultra-low-sulfur diesel (ULSD) fuel with 15 ppm of sulfur or less or biodiesel (B20) fuel blended with ULSD.
• A ground-level overfill indicator rises when the tank is full to help the operator avoid spilling.
• The QuickEvac™ option ensures fast, easy, and secure changing of engine and hydraulic oil.
• The 324E is built to be rebuilt with major structures and components capable of being remanufactured to reduce waste and replacement costs.
• An eco-friendly engine oil filter eliminates the need for painted metal cans and aluminum top plates. The cartridge-style spin-on housing enables the internal filter to be separated and replaced; the used internal element can be incinerated to help reduce waste.
• The 324E is an efficient, productive machine that's designed to conserve our natural resources for generations ahead.