Heavy Construction Equipments Blog

The mini excavator is an important tool for general contractors, excavators, plumbers, paving companies and other types of professional contractors. With a wide variety of uses and a vast array of attachments to specialize the mini excavators for any job, the machine has many advantages over its larger counterparts. As stated previously, the primary advantage of the mini excavator is its size. Because the compact excavators are so small, they are often used in tight spaces where larger machines would not be able to operate. They are able to maneuver through trees and fit through gates and small openings, and because they are lighter than most larger excavators, they do less damage to the landscape. Many of these mini excavators feature expandable tracks, which can be extended or detracted based on the size of the area where work is being done.

Many of the new and used compact excavators on the market have tracks that can be detracted to less than three feet wide. Others are much larger. If the machine will be used for a specific job, or a certain type of job, it is a good idea to measure any openings the machine will have to fit through, to determine what size machine is needed.

The width of the mini excavators is not the only consideration that has to be made when looking at different machines. Contractors use compact excavators because the weight of the machine often allows them to travel to places a larger machine would be unable to go. As with everything else, the difference in the weight of these machines will determine what type of terrain they can be operated on. The lighter machines will easily be able to transverse soft, wet ground, where heavier machines may not be able to go.

A large proportion of the machines are manufactured with a rubber track, as opposed to one of steel. The rubber material is low impact, making traveling on soft ground easier and doing less damage to the area. Mini excavators can range in weight from as little as 1200 pounds to as heavy as 7000 pounds or more. Light weight machines can be operated with the least amount of damage to the landscape. Because they are so light, they are often are easier to get to job locations than larger models. They can be towed on a trailer behind a normal size truck, eliminating the need for special transportation and commercial driver’s licenses.

Mini excavators, like their larger counterparts have the ability to support multiple types of attachments. Depending on the type of job, some of these attachments and upgrades might be useful. Many of the compact excavators feature a quick-coupler attachment that allows attachments to quickly be changed. As previously referred to, different types of buckets are available and can allow for a range of digging widths and soil types. For almost any job a larger machine can accomplish, there is a tool that will enable the mini excavator to compete.

Grapples can be attached to the mini machine to allow the pick up of bunches of logs or downed trees. The size and power of the machine will determine how much weight it can lift. Hammers can be attached, turning the machine into a demolition tool capable of breaking concrete or completing pipe digging work, and a thumb attachment will allow the mini excavator to pick up piles of brush or rubbish.

Many models of excavators also come with or are ready for the addition of back fill blades. The blade allows the operator to push dirt back into the hole they have dug, effectively performing the work of two machines. Buying new attachments is not always necessary. Buying used attachments and accessories is an option that could save thousands of dollars in the long run. When buying used accessories, just like when purchasing used mini excavators, the buyer needs to examine the part and make sure they know what they are purchasing.

While it would be nice to buy the highest rated machine on the market along with all of the accessories and attachments, many companies and independent contractors simply do not have the funds in their budget to make such a major purchase. Despite the fact that mini excavators cost much less than their larger counterparts, cost and budget must always be considered. A full sized excavator can cost in excess of $100,000, while a mini excavator averages approximately $30,000.

Buying a used mini excavator is an option that can be explored. Buying a used construction equipment can save thousands of dollars, and, just like buying a used car or truck, often times the used machines still have years of life left in them. Before making any major purchase, the buyer must evaluate all of the features of the machine, and look at any hidden costs that could result from the purchase. Hidden cost could include maintenance of the machine, the cost of accessories, transportation and storage fees, or any of a number of other possibilities.

When purchasing a machine, be sure to explore all of your options. Investigate which attachments will be most needed, and make sure to check local rentals as well as suppliers. Instead of purchasing every attachment, put your money toward getting the best machine for your needs, and rent the accessories that won’t be needed on a daily basis. Shop around and find the best deal on what you are looking for, but also remember that you get what you pay for.

Once you have purchased the machine, make sure to take care of it as best you can. Some parts are going to wear out and need replacing, but if properly maintained these parts can last longer, saving you money. Regular vehicle maintenance, including flushing the fluids and changing the hoses may help to increase the longevity of the machine. It might be costly upfront to maintain and store the vehicle properly, but the costs will pay out in the long run.

There are many choices and possibilities when it comes to excavators. Which machine is right for you will be determined by what type of environment you are working in, and what type of work you will be doing on a regular basis. Make sure to take all factors into consideration, including which features you need and which you can live without. Remember extra accessories and attachments can be purchased or rented later if they are needed. The best machine for you is one that will meet all of your needs, perform up to your standards, require little maintenance, and stand the test of time.