Three Functional Considerations before Compact Excavator Selection
If you are planning a small-scale construction or renovation project, you should consider acquiring a compact excavator for your earthmoving tasks. The design of a compact excavator is similar to that of the standard or conventional type. However, this alternative is lighter and considerably smaller.
The primary advantage of this excavator is that it can perform tasks in confined spaces due to the small size. In addition, this is easy to transport, and its lighter body means less consumption of fuel. If you decide to use a compact excavator for your project, consider these functional factors before making your selection.
Tail Swing Design
There are three options to consider with regard to the tail swing configuration when purchasing or renting an excavator. These are conventional, reduced and zero tail swing designs. Standard size excavators can use all the three configurations, but the compact alternative normally utilises the latter two. Basically, the zero tail swing is built such that when the excavator housing rotates, there is no overhang or extension beyond the tracks.
In general, this means that the excavator swing is extremely tight during operation, ensuring that the earthmoving tasks can be performed next to major obstacles without the risk of contact. The reduced tail swing configuration has a small overhang, which means the housing extends a little beyond the tracks. This is ideal because it has increased strength without compromising manoeuvrability.
Excavator Attachments
When choosing a compact excavator, it is important to evaluate the attachments provided with the heavy equipment. Moreover, you should check its compatibility with the additional attachments that you might require in the course of the project. The bucket is often the default choice for earthmoving operations. In simple terms, this attachment is favoured because it can perform digging and trenching tasks as well as scoop out materials.
Often, the bucket incorporates hard teeth and a large container to promote maximum excavation performance. Compact excavators are usually compatible with other beneficial attachments such as grading blades, grapplers and mowers. If you want to perform specialty operations such as digging posts or demolition, you should ask about the availability of matching attachments for such operations like augers and breakers.
Undercarriage Size
The size of the undercarriage in a compact excavator is normally small. However, the sizes are not homogeneous, so compare the available operating size in your worksite with the options before selection. If you have the financial resources, consider choosing an undercarriage with expandable functions. The width of the module can be changed according to the available operating space.
For more information, contact local professionals like Eastern Plant Hire.