318F Excavator Machine Systems Electronic Control (Boom System) Caterpillar


Electronic Control (Boom System)
`
1.1. Electronic Control Module (ECM)
2.1. Pin Locations
3.1. Inputs
4.2. Sensors
5.3. Low Pressure Sensors
6.3. Boom Down Control Pressure Sensor
7.3. Negative Flow Control Pressure Sensors
8.3. High Pressure Sensors
9.3. Boom Cylinder Head End Pressure Sensor
10.3. Drive Pump Pressure Sensor and Idler Pump Pressure Sensor
11.2. Switches
12.3. Pressure Switch
13.3. Implement Pressure Switch
14.1. Outputs
15.2. On/Off Solenoids
16.3. Hydraulic Lock Solenoid
17.4. Hydraulic Lock Solenoid
18.4. High Pressure Change Solenoid
19.2. Proportional Reducing Solenoid Valve
20.3. Power Shift Pressure PRV
21.3. Negative Flow Control 1 Limit PRV and Negative Flow Control 2 Limit PRV
22.2. Reverse Proportional Reducing Solenoid Valve
23.3. Boom Regeneration PRV
24.1. Data Link
25.2. Cat Data Link
26.2. CAN Data Link

Electronic Control Module (ECM)



Illustration 1g02612416
Machine ECM
(1) Controller
(2) J1 Connector
(3) J2 Connector


Illustration 2g02613001
Connectors of Machine ECM
(2) J1 Connector
(3) J2 Connector

The output from the Machine ECM is based on input information from the sensors. The output commands are based on the software programmed into the control module. After the Machine ECM receives the input information, the ECM sends a corresponding response to the outputs. The inputs and outputs of the ECM are connected to the machine harness by two 54-pin connectors (J1 and J2). The inputs and outputs to the ECM can be viewed through the AVSpare Electronic Technician (Cat ET). Input and output information can also be viewed using the Operator Monitor.

The ECM also communicates with sensors and other control modules via the CAN Data Link. The data link is bi-directional, allowing the Machine ECM to both receive and send information with the Engine ECM. The Machine ECM also communicates to input and output components that are directly connected to the Switch Panel. The Switch Panel is used to link input and output components to the Machine ECM via the CAN Data Link.

Note: Only the complete ECM is serviced (no lower levels components). The ECM must be replaced if the ECM is damaged. Replace the ECM if a failure is diagnosed.

Pin Locations

The Cat Data Link is used to provide a connection for the service tool for troubleshooting, testing, and calibrations. The data link is bidirectional. The data link allows the ECM to receive information. The data link also allows the ECM to send information.

Table 1
Machine ECM Connector J1 Contact Descriptions(1) 
No.  Type  Pin Description 
Power  +Battery 
Ground  Ground 
17  Input  Boom Down Control Pressure Sensor 
27  Power  Power Supply for Sensor (8V) 
31  Input  Implement Pressure Switch 
36  Input  Boom Cylinder Head Pressure Sensor 
48  Input  Negative Flow Control 1 Pressure Sensor 
49  Input  Negative Flow Control 2 Pressure Sensor 
53  Input  Drive Pump Pressure Sensor 
54  Input  Idler Pump Pressure Sensor 
(1) Contacts that are not listed are not used.

Table 2
Machine ECM Connector J2 Contact Descriptions(1) 
No.  Type  Pin Description 
Output  Power Shift Pressure EPRV 
Output  Boom Regeneration REPRV 
19  Ground  PRV Return 
21  Ground  PRV Return 
22  Ground  PRV Return 
27  Input  Hydraulic Lock Cancel Switch 
28  Output  High Pressure Change Solenoid 
43  Output  Negative Flow Control 2 Limit EPRV 
47  Input/Output  CAN (J1939) Data Link + 
48  Input/Output  CAN (J1939) Data Link - 
50  Input/Output  Machine CAN Data Link + 
51  Input/Output  Machine CAN Data Link - 
53  Output  Negative Flow Control 1 Limit EPRV 

Inputs

The inputs describe the status of the machine systems. Two types of inputs exist. The inputs can be either a switch type or a sensor type. Switches provide an open, a ground, or a + battery signal to the inputs of the controller. Sensors (frequency, PWM, or voltage) provide a changing signal to the sensor inputs of the controller. The controller will recognize the following types of sensor signals:

Frequency - The sensor will produce an AC signal (sine wave or square wave) that varies in frequency (Hz) as the condition changes.

Pulse Width Modulated - The sensor produces a digital signal and varies the duty cycle as the condition changes. The frequency of the signal will remain constant.

In some cases the operator is provided a manual switch that can be used to change a condition of the machine.

Sensors

Low Pressure Sensors



Illustration 3g02263393

Note: The values in Table 3 are for bench testing only. Values may not represent parameters for machine systems specifications.

Table 3
Operating pressure  10 MPa 
Supply Voltage  +7V ~ +14V 
Output signal  500 ± 100 Hz (PWM) 
Output range  5% ~ 95% 

Boom Down Control Pressure Sensor

Pressure sensor for boom down control measures the pilot oil pressure during a boom DOWN function. The pressure sensor for boom down control sends a pulse width modulated signal (PWM) input to the machine ECM. The machine ECM uses the pressure information to reduce engine speed and pump flow during a boom down function. Also, the boom down control pressure sensor is used as in input along with the boom head end pressure sensor to determine when boom regeneration can be performed.

Whenever the pilot pressure exceeds 500 kPa (73 psi) the machine ECM energizes the swing brake solenoid valve. This action releases the swing parking brake.

Negative Flow Control Pressure Sensors

The negative flow control (NFC) pressure sensors for the drive pump and idler pump are inputs to the machine ECM. The machine ECM uses this pressure information to determine the hydraulic demand requested by the operator. The machine ECM then sends a PWM driver to the negative flow control solenoids to control the pump flow rate.

The NFC pressure sensors are located on the top on the main control valve in the end plate.

For more information on the NFC pressure sensors, refer to Systems Operation, "Negative Flow Control System".

High Pressure Sensors



Illustration 4g02263513

Note: The values in Table 4 are for bench testing only. Values may not represent parameters for machine systems specifications.

Table 4
Operating Pressure  50 MPa 
Supply Voltage  +7V ~ +14V 
Output Signal  500 ± 100 Hz (PWM) 
Output Range  5% ~ 95% 

Boom Cylinder Head End Pressure Sensor

Boom cylinder head end pressure sensor measures the hydraulic pressure on the head end of the boom cylinder. The pressure sensors send a pulse width modulated signal (PWM) input to the machine ECM. The pressure information is used for boom regeneration control.

Drive Pump Pressure Sensor and Idler Pump Pressure Sensor

The drive pump pressure sensor and idler pump pressure sensors are inputs to the machine ECM. The drive pump and idler pump pressure sensors are located on the main control valve. The drive pump pressure sensor monitors the pressure of the drive pump oil in the front half of the main control valve high-pressure passages. The idler pump pressure sensor monitors the idler pump oil pressure in the rear half of the main control valve high-pressure passages.

The pressure sensors send a pulse width modulated (PWM) input to the machine ECM. This pressure information is used for pump control and travel speed.

Switches

Pressure Switch



Illustration 5g02332474

Note: The values in Table 5 are for bench testing only. Values may not represent parameters for machine systems specifications.

Table 5
Activation Pressure  490 ± 49 kPa (71 ± 7 psi) 
Deactivation Pressure  294 kPa (43 psi) MIN 
Rating  + 12V ~ +32V
0.01 Amp to 1 Amp 
Pressure Range  0 to 10 MPa 

Implement Pressure Switch

The implement pressure switch sends an input signal to the machine ECM. When the joysticks are moved from the NEUTRAL position for a boom UP, stick IN, stick OUT, bucket IN, or a bucket OUT operation, pilot oil is directed to the implement pressure switch. The increase of pilot pressure activates the implement pressure switch. The implement pressure switch sends an electrical signal to the machine ECM. The switch information is used to control engine speed and pump control. Also, an electrical signal from the machine ECM energizes the swing brake solenoid valve in order to release the swing parking brake.

Note: The implement pressure switch does not detect a boom lower or a swing operation.

Outputs

The ECM responds to decisions by sending electrical signals to the outputs. The outputs can create an action or the outputs can provide information to the operator or the service technician.

On/Off Solenoids

Hydraulic Lock Solenoid



Illustration 6g01158530

Note: The values in Table 6 are for bench testing only. Values may not represent parameters for machine systems specifications.

Table 6
Rated Voltage  24 VDC 
Coil Resistance  41.5 ± 2.0Ω (T=20° C) 

The hydraulic lock solenoid is an output of the Machine ECM. The hydraulic lock solenoid is energized in order to enable the primary hydraulic pressure. The hydraulic lock solenoid is de-energized in order to disable the primary hydraulic pressure.

This solenoid is activated while the key switch is in the ON position and the hydraulic lock lever is in the UNLOCK position.

The high-pressure change solenoid is an output of the Machine ECM. The high-pressure change solenoid is energized in order to increase the main hydraulic system pressure. The Machine ECM energizes the solenoid during a boom UP operation when the head end cylinder pressure is high or a travel operation only.

Proportional Reducing Solenoid Valve



Illustration 7g02703776

Note: The values in Table 7 are for bench testing only. Values may not represent parameters for machine systems specifications.

Table 7
Current Range  0 mA ~ 700 mA 
Coil Resistance  15.0 ± 0.7Ω (T=20° C) 

Power Shift Pressure PRV

The power shift pressure PRV is used to destroke the main pump under load to maintain engine speed. The main functions of the PRV, in conjunction with, the monitoring system, are listed below:

  • The PRV manages the transfer to engine power into hydraulic power as needed.

  • The system control the output of the pump according to the workload, improving fuel efficiency.

Negative Flow Control 1 Limit PRV and Negative Flow Control 2 Limit PRV

Two proportional reducing valves for negative flow control are used to control the amount of NFC signal to the pump regulators. The machine ECM receives various input signals to control the flow limitation from the main hydraulic pumps. When the NFC valves are energized by the machine ECM, pilot oil pressure is directed to the main hydraulic pump regulators from the pilot manifold. The pilot oil pressure causes the hydraulic pumps to destroke which reduces hydraulic oil flow.

Reverse Proportional Reducing Solenoid Valve



Illustration 8g02304374
Valve cutaway, hydraulic schematic symbol, and electrical connector designation

Note: The values in Table 8 are for bench testing only. Values may not represent parameters for machine systems specifications.

Table 8
Current Range  0 mA ~ 700 mA 
Coil Resistance  15.0 ± 0.7Ω (T=20° C) 


Illustration 9g02304414

Reverse PRV's have the P-port open to the A-port with no current applied. Therefore, the machine ECM applies current to the PRV in order to decrease the pressure at the A-port.

Boom Regeneration PRV

The boom regeneration PRV is used in order to control the amount of regeneration oil in the boom circuit. The machine ECM receives an input signal from pressure sensor for boom down control and boom cylinder head end pressure sensor.

When the boom cylinder head end pressure is high and the pressure sensor for boom down control detects pilot pressure, the boom regeneration PRV remains de-activated. Pilot oil is then directed through the boom regeneration PRV and to the boom regeneration valve allowing regeneration.

When the boom cylinder head end pressure is low and the pressure sensor for boom down control detects pilot pressure, the boom regeneration PRV begins to receive a PMW signal from the machine ECM. The machine ECM begins to increase current flow which decreases the amount of pilot oil supplied to the boom regeneration valve. The boom regeneration circuit is then disabled.

Data Link

Cat Data Link

The Cat Data Link is an input/output of the ECM. The data link uses the connector for the service port in order to communicate with the AVSpare Electronic Technician. A data link connection is provided for the product link.

Note: The control for the product link provides a global positioning system for the machine.

The data link is bidirectional. The bidirectional link allows the ECM to input information and output information. The data link consists of the following parts: internal ECM circuits, the related harness wiring, the service tool connector and the connector for the product link. The Cat Data Link connects to the ECM at contact J2-16 (wire 892-BR(Brown)) and contact J2-25 (wire 893-GN(Green)).

  • The ECM receives commands from the Cat ET in order to change the operating modes. The Cat ET will read the service codes that are stored in the memory of the ECM. The Cat ET will clear the service codes that are stored in the memory of the ECM.

  • The ECM sends the input and the output information to the AVSpare ET.

CAN Data Link

A Controller Area Network (CAN) Data Link allows communication between the Machine ECM, Engine ECM, and the input and output devices of the switch panel. The CAN Data Link allows for bi-directional electronic signals to be passed among the controllers and the switch panel. The data link allows the Machine ECM to be connected to sensors and actuators connected to the switch panel. The Machine ECM can also use the data link to communicate engine speed and/or torque requirements to the Engine ECM.

Information System:

A Precleaner Assembly is Now Available on Certain 320D2 320E 320F and 323D2 323E 323F Excavators {1055}
318F Excavator Machine Systems Electronic Control (Main Control Valve)
318F Excavator Machine Systems Electronic Control (Pilot System)
415F2 IL Backhoe Loader Hydraulic and Steering Systems Bank Valve (Loader) - Single Tilt - Direct Operating
318F Excavator Machine Systems Engine Control
C2.4 Tier 4 Final Engines for Caterpillar Built Machines Engine Oil Pan - Remove and Install
325F Excavator Machine Systems Bucket Cylinder - Remove and Install
335F Excavator Cooling System Coolant (ELC) - Change
335F Excavator Cooling System Coolant Sample (Level 1) - Obtain
318F Excavator Machine Systems Electronic Control (Machine System)
323F LN Excavator Declaration of Conformity
320E and 323E Excavators Machine Electronic Control System MID 299, 5226-8
415F2 IL Backhoe Loader Hydraulic and Steering Systems General Information (Steering)
318F Excavator Machine Systems Electronic Control (Travel System)
415 IL Backhoe Loaders Hydraulic and Steering System Hydraulic Oil Contamination - Test
C2.4 Tier 4 Final Engines for Caterpillar Built Machines Crankshaft Rear Seal Carrier - Remove and Install
PM620, PM622, PM820, PM822 and PM825 Cold Planers Electronic System Solenoid Valve - Test
316F Excavator Machine Systems Electronic Control (Bucket System)
316F Excavator Machine Systems Electronic Control (Stick System)
323F LN Excavator Maintenance Interval Schedule
323F LN Excavator Specifications
323F LN Excavator Lifting Capacities
415F2 IL Backhoe Loader Hydraulic and Steering Systems Hydraulic Pump - Test and Adjust
415F2 IL Backhoe Loader Hydraulic and Steering Systems Relief Valve (Line) - Test and Adjust