Tips for Improving CAT Machinery Fuel Efficiency

Fuel is a big cost driver—at any price point. To reduce that cost, you’re challenged to use fuel efficiently and do as much work as possible with every tank. When you do more work with the fuel you burn, you will better position your business for growth against your competitors. It will take some diligence and dedication, but you can improve your fuel efficiency by following Milton CAT’s top tips for maximizing your machine’s fuel efficiency.

Reducing Idle Time of CAT Machinery

Industry experts estimate idle time can represent as much as 40% of total running time. All those nonproductive hours are probably costing you more than you think. Here are six tips for reducing your idle time.

1. Limit idle time at shutoff. Older engines need 2 minutes; newer engines almost none.
2. Turn off equipment that are waiting more than 5 minutes to load or unload.
3. Restrict morning warm-ups to 3 to 5 minutes.
4. Turn off equipment during lunch time, breaks, and other periods when not in use.
5. When available, use the automatic shutdown feature.
6. Anticipate the mobile requirements of other equipment and position the inactive machine where it won’t impede the movement of others.

Operator Technique

Investing in operator training for your equipment fleet not only benefits safety, productivity, and employee retention, but also helps save on fuel costs. Research shows that a skilled operator can use 10-12% less fuel daily than an unskilled one. Communicate the importance of reducing idle time to your operators and instruct them to focus on consistent operation—fewer big swings in acceleration and deceleration.

Regular Maintenance

Sticking to a regular maintenance schedule ensures your CAT machinery works at optimum performance and reduces the risk of costly repairs and unexpected downtime. Stay on top of daily tasks like greasing components, adjusting belts, inflating tires, and inspecting track. Scheduling onsite preventative maintenance with Milton CAT can help maximize fuel efficiency and save time. You can schedule onsite maintenance at night to limit downtime during hours of operation.

Work with the Right Equipment

If your highly utilized machines are showing their age, it could be tough to improve fuel efficiency. New CAT machinery features fuel-efficient innovations such as power-dense engines, economy mode, load-sensing hydraulics, and auto engine idle shutdown. As you think about upgrading key machines, be sure to consider sizing, system matchup, blade or bucket choice, and GET selection. They all affect fuel efficiency.

Take Advantage of Machine Technology and Data

Take advantage of your machine’s precise measurements of fuel consumption, idle time, production time, and equipment utilization. Analyzing that data can help you identify the equipment that burns too much fuel or operators who need extra training. Fuel data can also help you uncover issues like dirty fuel injectors, plugged air filters, defective sensors, a slipping clutch, and much more. These are all problems you can fix to keep fuel costs in check.

Set Your Job Site up for Success

The workflow of your job site can make an impact on your productivity and fuel economy. Carefully configure your site for maximum efficiency. Ensure travel routes are short, direct, and clear of obstacles to minimize turning and idle time. Getting an efficiency expert involved can be a good move.

Have questions? We’d be happy to help you find answers. Contact us today!