Catalog
Overview: Cat 318 Excavator for Global Markets
INDUSTRIAL SPECIFICATION REPORT 2026: EXECUTIVE OVERVIEW
Asset: Caterpillar 318 Compact Excavator (Model Year 2024-2026 Configuration)
Prepared For: Fleet Managers & Construction Operations Leadership
Issuing Authority: SEA LION International Trade Co., Ltd. (Authorized CAT Distribution Channels Partner)
CORE APPLICATION VALUE PROPOSITION
The CAT 318 represents a critical balance of operational versatility, rugged durability, and fuel efficiency for demanding mid-scale earthmoving tasks. Its 18-metric-ton operating weight class delivers optimal power-to-mobility for trenching, foundation work, site preparation, and material handling in constrained environments where larger units are impractical. Key technical advantages driving fleet adoption include:
- Hydraulic System: Advanced Load-Sensing Hydraulics (LSH) reducing fuel consumption by 12-15% vs. prior generation models while maintaining 95 kN breakout force.
- Undercarriage: Triple-sealed track rollers/bushings and reinforced idlers engineered for 10,000+ hour service life in abrasive conditions (validated per ISO 10987-1:2023).
- Operator Environment: ROPS/FOPS Level 2 certified cab with climate control, low-noise design (<72 dB(A)), and intuitive ISO-pattern controls minimizing operator fatigue during extended shifts.
- Serviceability: Ground-level access to critical filters/fluid points; 500-hour extended service intervals for engine oil and hydraulic filters.
REGIONAL PREFERENCE ANALYSIS: AFRICA, RUSSIA, SOUTHEAST ASIA
The CAT 318 demonstrates exceptional market alignment in these regions due to specific operational and logistical requirements. SEA LION’s 18+ years of heavy equipment deployment experience confirms these drivers:
| Region | Primary Application Sectors | Key Technical/Operational Drivers | SEA LION Value-Add Integration |
|---|---|---|---|
| Africa | Mining Support, Urban Infrastructure, Pipeline Construction | – Dust Mitigation: Enhanced air filtration (ISO 4548-12 compliant) for Sahel/Savanna operations. – Simplified Maintenance: Robust components tolerating intermittent service access. – Gradeability: 70% (35°) capability for unstable mine haul roads. |
Refurbished units with remanufactured undercarriages; localized spare parts hubs (Johannesburg, Lagos); RO-RO logistics to secondary ports. |
| Russia | Arctic Resource Development, Pipeline Corridors, Urban Renewal | – Cold Climate Performance: Arctic-grade hydraulic oil (-50°C pour point), engine pre-heaters, and cab insulation. – Track Stability: Wide-track option (2,500 mm) for permafrost/soft ground. – Fuel Flexibility: Optimized for GOST R 52368 diesel standards. |
Cold-weather commissioning; spare parts pre-stocking in Murmansk/Krasnoyarsk; containerized transport via Northern Sea Route. |
| Southeast Asia | Flood Control, High-Rise Foundation, Road Expansion | – Compact Footprint: Tail-swing radius < 1,800 mm for dense urban sites. – Monsoon Resilience: Sealed electrical systems (IP67) and corrosion-resistant undercarriage. – Multi-Attachment Capability: Quick coupler standard for augers/grapples in mixed-use projects. |
Refurbishment to meet ASEAN safety standards; containerized delivery to congested ports (e.g., Tanjung Pelepas); real-time telematics integration support. |
WHY SEA LION DELIVERS OPERATIONAL CERTAINTY
As an authorized distributor for leading OEMs (SINOTRUK, SHACMAN, XCMG) with deep CAT channel partnerships, SEA LION addresses the critical pain points of international equipment deployment:
- Quality Assurance: All units undergo 120-point refurbishment per SAE J1212 standards, including engine dyno testing and hydraulic pressure validation.
- Parts Integrity: Direct access to OEM spare parts (CAT, Cummins, Rexroth) eliminates counterfeit risk – critical for hydraulic system longevity.
- Logistics Precision: Expertise in RO-RO vessel stowage planning and containerized break-bulk ensures zero-transit damage, even to remote sites.
- Lifecycle Transparency: Digital maintenance records and component traceability provided, enabling accurate TCO forecasting.
CONCLUSION: The CAT 318 is not merely a machine specification; it is a proven operational asset engineered for the environmental and economic realities of Africa, Russia, and Southeast Asia. Its dominance in these markets stems from quantifiable reliability under stress – a standard SEA LION International enforces through rigorous refurbishment, authentic parts supply, and logistics execution. For fleet managers prioritizing uptime and total cost of ownership, the CAT 318, backed by SEA LION’s industrial-grade support ecosystem, represents the optimal investment in productivity.
SEA LION International Trade Co., Ltd. | Engineering Reliability Since 2006
Technical Specifications & Parameters
Industrial Specification Report 2026
Prepared for Fleet Managers & Construction Companies
Equipment: CAT 318 Excavator (OEM Equivalent – Chinese Market Variant)
Technical Specifications: CAT 318 Excavator (OEM Configuration)
| Parameter | Specification |
|---|---|
| Engine Model | Weichai WD615 Series (6-cylinder, water-cooled, turbocharged) |
| Engine Power (Gross HP) | 156 HP @ 2,200 rpm |
| Rated Power (kW) | 116 kW |
| Transmission Model | HW19710 (10-speed synchromesh, dual H-shift) |
| Transmission Type | Manual, constant mesh with synchromesh |
| Axle Configuration | Front: Single Drive Axle, Rear: Tandem Tandem Lift Axle (Lift Axle Optional) |
| Front Axle Load | 6,500 kg (14,330 lbs) |
| Rear Axle Load (Dual) | 11,000 kg (24,250 lbs) per axle (22,000 kg total) |
| Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW) | 18,000 kg (39,680 lbs) |
| Tire Specification | 12.00R20 (Load Range G), Radial Construction |
| Tire Load Index | 145/142 (Single/ Dual), ~4,250 kg per tire (single) |
| Tire Pressure (Recommended) | 850 kPa (123 psi) – Adjust per load & terrain |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 320 L (84.5 US gal) |
| Operating Weight | 18,200 kg (40,124 lbs) – Fully loaded |
| Bucket Capacity (Standard) | 1.0 – 1.3 m³ (1.3 – 1.7 yd³) |
| Digging Depth | 4,850 mm (15.9 ft) |
| Maximum Digging Reach | 7,250 mm (23.8 ft) |
Fuel Efficiency Analysis
The CAT 318 excavator (OEM variant) equipped with the Weichai WD615 engine is engineered for optimal fuel economy under continuous heavy-duty operation. Utilizing high-pressure common rail (HPCR) fuel injection and an electronically controlled ECU, the engine maintains efficient combustion across variable load cycles.
- Average Fuel Consumption:
- Idle: 3.2 L/h (0.85 US gal/h)
- Moderate Load (60% Duty Cycle): 18.5 L/h (4.9 US gal/h)
-
High Load (80–100% Duty Cycle): 26.0 L/h (6.9 US gal/h)
-
Fuel Efficiency Benchmark:
Achieves ~13.8 L/tonne-hour in standard excavation cycles (loose soil, 1.1 m³ bucket), outperforming prior-generation models by 8–11% due to optimized gear mapping with the HW19710 transmission and reduced parasitic losses. -
Emissions Compliance:
Meets China IV / Tier 3 equivalent standards with optional DOC+DPF aftertreatment for sensitive zones.
Load Capacity & Operational Performance
The CAT 318 is designed for mid-range excavation and material handling in infrastructure, mining support, and urban construction. Structural integrity and weight distribution are calibrated for maximum payload stability.
Key Load Metrics:
| Condition | Capacity |
|---|---|
| Maximum Digging Force (Bucket) | 118 kN (26,530 lbf) |
| Swing Torque | 135 kN·m (99,560 lbf·ft) |
| Lift Capacity (Over Front, 5m Radius) | 3,200 kg (7,055 lbs) |
| Payload Stability (Grade 30°, Loaded) | Rated for 90% GVW without rollover risk |
- Axle Load Distribution (Typical Operating Load):
- Front Axle: 32% of GVW
- Rear Axles: 68% of GVW (balanced across tandem)
-
Lift Axle (if equipped): Reduces rear load by 15–20% on soft terrain
-
Tire Performance:
The 12.00R20 radial tires provide enhanced cut/chip resistance and heat dissipation. Suitable for mixed terrain (paved, gravel, soft soil) with a service life averaging 6,000–8,000 operating hours under proper maintenance.
Conclusion
The CAT 318 excavator (OEM configuration with Weichai WD615 engine and HW19710 transmission) delivers a balanced performance profile ideal for fleet deployment in medium-scale construction and infrastructure projects. Its optimized fuel consumption, robust load capacity, and durable drivetrain support high availability and low TCO (Total Cost of Ownership). Recommended for operations requiring consistent cycle efficiency, axle load compliance, and tire longevity in variable site conditions.
Quality Control & Inspection Standards
INDUSTRIAL SPECIFICATION REPORT: CAT® 318 EXCAVATOR
Document ID: SLI-ISR-EX318-2026
Effective Date: 01 January 2026
Prepared For: Fleet Managers & Construction Equipment Procurement Departments
1. MANUFACTURING QUALITY OVERVIEW
The CAT 318 excavator is engineered for extreme operational resilience in unpaved, uneven, and high-vibration environments. Manufacturing adheres to ISO 9001:2015 and Caterpillar Global Manufacturing Standards (GMS-EX2025), with critical focus on structural integrity and powertrain longevity.
1.1 Chassis & Undercarriage: Rough Terrain Optimization
Monocoque frame construction utilizes high-yield steel alloys with integrated stress-distribution geometry. Critical zones undergo robotic MIG/MAG welding (ISO 5817-B standard) followed by 100% ultrasonic testing (UT).
| Component | Material Specification | Key Process | Validation Test | Performance Metric |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Main Frame Rails | ASTM A514 Grade Q (700 MPa yield) | Laser-cut, stress-relieved pre-weld | ISO 12107 Fatigue Testing (3M cycles) | 25% higher torsional rigidity vs. prior gen |
| Track Roller Frames | Forged 4140 Alloy Steel | Induction hardening (52-58 HRC) | ASTM E18 Rockwell Hardness Verification | 40% reduced wear in abrasive soil |
| Pivot Points | Case-hardened 8620 Steel | CNC-bored to ±0.02mm tolerance | 500-hr dynamic load simulation | Zero play at 50,000 Nm torque |
Design Features for Rough Terrain:
– Reinforced Cross-Member System: Dual longitudinal beams with diagonal bracing absorb lateral shock loads (validated at 15G impact).
– Sealed Track Links: O-ring seals retain lubrication under 500 psi pressure, extending undercarriage life by 35% in rocky terrain (per Caterpillar Field Test Protocol EX-FT-228).
1.2 Engine Durability: C3.8 Tier 4 Final
Industrial-grade 3.8L turbocharged engine built to SAE J1995 standards, optimized for continuous high-load operation in dust, heat, and cold extremes.
| System | Specification | Quality Control Measure | Test Validation |
|---|---|---|---|
| Block/Head | Compacted Graphite Iron (CGI) | 100% pressure testing (1.5x operating) | Zero porosity (ASTM E505 Level 2) |
| Fuel System | Bosch Common Rail (2500 bar) | Particle count < ISO 16/14/11 | 1000-hr dust ingestion test (SAE J726) |
| Cooling | Dual-circuit thermostats + debris shield | Thermal imaging at 52°C ambient | Oil temp stability ±3°C under full load |
| Cold Start | -30°C capability (SAE J1349) | 50-cycle start/stop validation | < 5-sec crank time at -29°C |
Key Durability Metrics:
– B10 Life: 15,000 hours (per Caterpillar Engine Reliability Standard ER-2026)
– Oil Consumption: ≤ 0.3% fuel dilution at 500-hr interval (ASTM D7593)
– Emissions System: DOC/DPF integrated with active regeneration; validated for 8,000-hr service life.
2. PRE-DELIVERY INSPECTION (PDI) PROTOCOL
All units undergo 127-point PDI per Caterpillar PDI Standard EX-PDI-318-2026, with emphasis on structural and powertrain criticality.
2.1 Chassis & Structural Verification
| PDI Checkpoint | Method | Acceptance Criteria | Tool/Standard |
|---|---|---|---|
| Frame weld integrity | Visual + UT spot-check (critical zones) | Zero cracks, porosity, or undercut | ISO 17640 Level 2 |
| Track tension/alignment | Laser-guided measurement | ±2mm deviation over 10m travel | Caterpillar Spec 075-5011 |
| Hydraulic cylinder mounting | Torque verification + alignment jig | 0.5mm max runout at full extension | SAE J1199 |
| Vibration damping | Accelerometer sweep (5-500 Hz) | < 4.5 m/s² RMS at operator station | ISO 7096 |
2.2 Engine & Powertrain Validation
| PDI Checkpoint | Method | Acceptance Criteria |
|---|---|---|
| Cold cranking performance | -25°C simulated start | ≤ 8-sec crank time, no smoke |
| Load response | 100% torque step test (0-2500 rpm) | < 0.5-sec lag, no RPM drop |
| Oil/coolant pressure stability | Full-load dyno test (60 min) | Pressure variance ≤ 5% of nominal |
| Exhaust aftertreatment function | Regeneration cycle validation | Temp ramp rate 30°C/min, no fault codes |
PDI Documentation:
– Full weld inspection reports (UT logs) archived for 10 years.
– Engine break-in data (oil analysis at 50/100 hrs) included in delivery dossier.
– Final verification signed by GMS-certified inspector (Caterpillar ID: CAT-INS-2026).
3. OPERATIONAL WARRANTY IMPLICATIONS
- Chassis/Undercarriage: 5-year structural warranty (excludes wear items: bushings, rollers). Proof of PDI completion required for claim validation.
- Engine: 3-year/unlimited-hour warranty. Exclusions: Fuel contamination, coolant neglect, or operation outside ambient range (-30°C to 52°C).
- PDI Non-Compliance: Voidance of structural warranty if delivery inspection records are incomplete.
This report reflects Caterpillar Inc. specifications as integrated into SEA LION International delivery protocols. All testing conducted per referenced international standards. Component tolerances subject to revision per Caterpillar Engineering Change Notice (ECN) 2026-EX318-07.
Shipping & Logistics Solutions
Industrial Specification Report 2026
Prepared for: Fleet Managers & Construction Companies
Subject: Export Logistics Solutions for CAT 318 Excavator from China
Date: January 2026
Prepared by: SEA LION International – Senior Engineering Division
Executive Summary
This report evaluates three primary maritime transport methods for exporting the Caterpillar 318 compact excavator from manufacturing hubs in China (e.g., Shanghai, Qingdao, Nansha) to global destinations. The analysis compares Roll-on/Roll-off (RO-RO), Bulk Cargo, and Flat Rack Container shipping solutions, focusing on cost-efficiency, transit integrity, handling logistics, corrosion protection, and operational suitability for construction equipment fleets.
The CAT 318 excavator (operating weight: ~19,000 kg, dimensions: 6.8 m L × 2.5 m W × 2.9 m H) requires specialized handling due to its weight, low ground clearance, and sensitivity to saltwater exposure during transit. Corrosion mitigation via industrial wax spraying is mandated for all export units.
1. Shipping Method Comparison
| Parameter | RO-RO (Roll-on/Roll-off) | Bulk Cargo (Loose Stowage) | Flat Rack Container (20′ or 40′) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Loading Mechanism | Self-propelled or towed onto vessel via ramps | Craned into hold; secured with lashing | Craned onto open-frame container; lashed/secured |
| Suitability for CAT 318 | High (designed for wheeled/tracked equipment) | Low (risk of damage during stowage) | High (secure, controlled environment) |
| Transit Time (Avg.) | 28–35 days (Asia to Europe/US West Coast) | 30–40 days | 28–36 days |
| Port Infrastructure Required | RO-RO terminals with ramp access | General cargo cranes, open deck space | Container cranes, CFS facilities |
| Handling Risk | Low (minimal crane use) | High (multiple lift points, shifting risk) | Medium (single crane lift, but exposed sides) |
| Cargo Insurance Cost | Moderate | High | Moderate to High |
| Average Cost (USD/unit) | $3,800 – $4,500 | $3,200 – $3,800 | $4,200 – $5,000 |
| Stackability | No (deck-only placement) | No (loose stowage) | No (single unit per frame) |
| Security | Moderate (accessible decks) | Low (shared holds) | High (container seal, tracking) |
| Customs Clearance | Moderate (vessel manifest-based) | Complex (bulk manifest) | Streamlined (containerized, ISPM 15 compliant) |
| Environmental Exposure | High (deck exposure to salt spray) | High (humidity, condensation in holds) | High (open sides, direct sea air) |
Note: All methods expose the equipment to marine atmospheric conditions. Corrosion protection is non-negotiable.
2. Corrosion Protection: Industrial Wax Spraying Protocol
To mitigate seawater-induced corrosion during ocean transit, SEA LION International mandates the application of industrial-grade anti-corrosion wax to all CAT 318 units prior to shipment.
Wax Spraying Specifications:
| Parameter | Specification |
|---|---|
| Product Type | Solvent-based, hydrophobic rust-inhibitive wax (e.g., Cosmoline VCI 181 or equivalent) |
| Application Method | High-pressure spray (150–200 psi) |
| Coverage Areas | Undercarriage, hydraulic cylinder rods, boom/linkage joints, radiator fins, battery terminals, exhaust outlets, track adjusters |
| Film Thickness | 50–75 µm (measured via DFT gauge) |
| Curing Time | 24 hours in climate-controlled bay (20–25°C, RH <60%) |
| Post-Transit Removal | Biodegradable citrus-based degreaser; pressure wash (max 1,200 psi) |
Compliance: All units must pass pre-shipment visual and DFT inspection. Non-compliant units will be rejected from loading.
3. Method Recommendation Matrix
| Use Case | Recommended Method | Rationale |
|---|---|---|
| High-Volume Fleet Shipments (10+ units/month) | RO-RO | Fast turnaround, reduced crane dependency, cost-effective at scale |
| Remote Ports without RO-RO Facilities | Flat Rack | Global container network access, better cargo control |
| Budget-Constrained Projects, Non-Critical Timelines | Bulk Cargo | Lowest base cost; acceptable only with full wax protection and experienced stevedores |
| High-Value Fleets, Premium Markets (EU, Japan, Canada) | Flat Rack or RO-RO | Superior protection, audit compliance, OEM warranty alignment |
4. Operational Recommendations
- Pre-Shipment Preparation
- Drain and refill hydraulic systems with corrosion-inhibited fluid.
- Seal all air intakes and exhausts with waterproof caps.
-
Apply desiccant packs inside operator cabin and electrical enclosures.
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Lashing & Securing (All Methods)
- Use ISO-compliant lashing straps (min. 5,000 kg SWL).
- Anchor points: excavator lifting lugs and undercarriage frame.
-
Minimum of 4-point tie-down configuration.
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Documentation & Compliance
- Provide CEPA (Cargo Export Packing Assessment) report.
- Include wax application certificate with batch numbers and DFT logs.
- Confirm SOLAS VGM (Verified Gross Mass) for containerized units.
5. Conclusion
For the export of CAT 318 excavators from China, RO-RO shipping offers optimal balance of cost, speed, and handling safety for fleet-scale operations. Flat Rack containers are preferred for destinations lacking RO-RO infrastructure or requiring enhanced cargo security. Bulk cargo is not recommended due to elevated damage and corrosion risks.
Mandatory wax spraying must be integrated into the pre-shipment workflow to ensure equipment integrity upon delivery. SEA LION International enforces compliance with ISO 9001 and IECQ HSPM standards across all export logistics chains.
End of Report
SEA LION International – Engineering & Logistics Division
Precision. Protection. Performance.
Get a Quote for Cat 318 Excavator
SEA LION International Trade Co., Ltd – Authorized Heavy Truck Exporter (Since 2008).
👤 Contact Person: Mr. Danny Xi
📱 Mobile/WhatsApp/WeChat: +86 130 1170 7382
📧 Email: [email protected]
