Two 15-ton Cat small excavators: Cat 315 and 315 GC

Back in 2020 and 2021, Caterpillar built two models in the 15-ton category to replace the Cat 315F: a standard model that would include the entire suite of Cat technologies, and a second model with enhanced features and similar performance of the Cat 315F. 

The Cat 315 and Cat 315GC offer a compact radius, along with low fuel consumption and operating costs that make them stand out in the market. Since 2021, these models have improved and customers can benefit from some of the latest features like Auto Warm-Up and Lift Assist.

We thought we’d compare the two machines side by side, to show what makes them unique.

Small Excavator Cat 315

Increase productivity up to 45% with Cat On-board technologies

• The 315 increases productivity with the Cat GRADE 2D system, which includes indicate-only and laser capability. 

• The 315 indicates depth, slope and horizontal distance to grade during operation. You can set up to 4 different depth and slope targets and that saves time and money.
   
• Not only can the machine work in tight confines but with standard 2D E-fence it prevents the machine from moving outside operator defined limits. 
• The 315 also has Lift Assist, a new feature that helps avoid tipping by making sure the machine’s load is within its safe working range.
• With the Cat Payload system you’ll achieve precise load targets and increase loading efficiency with on-the-go weighing and real-time estimates of your payload.

• Grade Assist automates boom and stick movements for more accurate cuts with less effort, adding up to 45% more efficiency than previous models.

• The 315’s Product Link™ system automatically and accurately collects data from your connected assets, whatever their brand. Information such as location, hours, fuel usage, productivity, idle time, maintenance alerts, diagnostic codes, and machine health… all of it can be viewed online using web and mobile applications.

Up to 30% lower maintenance costs 

• • Quickly check and service your machine with all daily maintenance points accessible from ground level.
  • The new hydraulic oil filter provides improved filtration performance, anti-drain valves to keep oil clean when the filter is replaced, and longer life with a 3000-hour replacement interval – 50 percent longer than previous filter designs

Powerful performance

• • Improved performance by 8% vs 315F
  • Cat C3.6 engine meets U.S. EPA Tier 4 Final, EU Stage V standards
  • Easily work on slopes and move around your jobsite with 10 percent more swing torque and 14 percent more drawbar pull