Excavator Long Boom
Depending on the excavator size class, you typically have three arm options: standard arm, long arm and super-long-reach.
For most excavator models, the standard excavator arm configuration generally provides an optimal lift capacity and breakout force.
Choose a long arm, or super-long-reach, and you will be able to reach further and dig deeper. These excavator arms can be especially useful in applications where space to properly reposition the machine is limited, like reaching down a slope.
However, with increased arm length you will lose some lifting capacity and breakout force. In some cases, configuring a larger counterweight to an excavator with a long arm or super-long-reach arm can help maintain some of its digging power.
Common Hydraulic Considerations
Some manufacturers offer one-way auxiliary hydraulics as standard equipment. Other excavators come standard with two-way auxiliary hydraulics.
If you plan to run attachments in the future, like a thumb on the excavator, you will likely want two-way hydraulics. If you’re confident you’ll only ever be digging, you may be able to get away with one-way.
Another reason for selecting two-way auxiliary hydraulics is if you use mult-function attachments. If you think you’ll use an angle tilt bucket or any other tilting attachment, you may want this option.
Excavator Cab Options
Cab characteristics vary depending on the manufacturer, but there are a few common ones.
Increased illumination on the front and sides of the cab is one example. Additional halogen or LED lights can help you work for longer periods of time.
Cameras are also becoming more widely used. Many crawler excavators now include rearview cameras as standard equipment, and some compact excavators can be equipped with them as well. Some manufacturers offer side view cameras as an optional feature. They're especially useful for slewing on a congested workplace.
Cab guards for the front and side windows are another option available on the market. Window cab protectors are frequently used by customers in the demolition, forestry, and recycling industries. The guards provide additional protection from environmental risks for the operators. For your machine, you can choose a specially designed forestry cab. Forestry cabs offer much more protection against flying objects.
A straight travel pedal is available from many excavator manufacturers. This feature is common in trenching applications because it makes it easier for operators to travel in a straight path.
Customizing an Excavator Undercarriage
Depending on the size of the machine, you may have a few alternatives for the undercarriage when purchasing an excavator.
Steel or rubber tracks are available on mini and mid-sized excavators. Mini excavators and larger excavators that undertake road work frequently use rubber tracks. The width of your track shoes is a typical option with steel tracks. Track shoes with a wider sole provide more buoyancy.
An angle or straight (dozer) blade is available from many mini excavator manufacturers. Blades help with digging stability and can also be used for modest backfilling. Angle blades allow you to vary the blade's angle to the left or right for improved material placement.
