The compact, or mini hydraulic excavator can be a tracked or wheeled vehicle. They have an approximate operating weight of 13,300 pounds. Capable of many purposes, the compact excavator is a versatile addition to any job.
Functions and capabilities for compact excavators have expanded today far beyond the general tasks of excavation. With hydraulic powered attachments such as breakers, clamps, compactors and augers, this equipment is used for many applications.
A mini or compact hydraulic excavator is different from other types of heavy machinery. Usually this excavator includes a standard backfill blade and features an independent boom swing. All movement and functions of the machine are accomplished through the transfer of hydraulic fluid. The work group and blade are activated by the hydraulic fluid acting upon hydraulic cylinders. The rotation and travel functions are also activated by hydraulic fluid.
Most types of compact hydraulic excavators have three assemblies – house, undercarriage, and the work group.
The house structure is attached to the top of the undercarriage via a swing bearing. It contains the compartment for the operator, engine compartment, hydraulic pump and also the distribution components. Along with the work group, the house is able to rotate upon the undercarriage without limit due to a hydraulic distribution valve that supplies oil to the undercarriage components.
The undercarriage of mini excavators may have rubber or steel tracks, idlers, drive sprockets, rollers, and associated components and structures. The work group contains the boom, dipper (arm), and attachment. The work group is connected to the front of the house structure via a swinging frame – allowing the work group to be hydraulically pivoted left or right, facilitating offset digging. (Offset digging is most common for trenching that is parallel with the tracks.)
An independent boom swing is also designed for offset digging and is most commonly engaged during excavation around obstacles or along foundations, walls, and forms – cycling in areas that are too narrow for cab rotation. The independent boom swing is one of the features that makes a mini excavator invaluable on many job sites.
Finally, the backfill blade is used for leveling, backfilling, grading, trenching, and general dozer work. The backfill blade is also used to increase both or either the dumping height and digging depth.
The most common place you’ll find, need or use compact excavators is at existing residential dwellings. For this reason great caution must be employed and should only be operated by a skilled operator. Phone and hydro lines, foundations, weeping tiles or sewage pipes are considerations to be taken into account when working in a residential area, especially in older neighborhoods where houses are close together. Due to a mini excavator’s small frame, they can fit almost anywhere – but they still have potential for damage especially if not being used with common sense or training.
