Like several other large pieces of equipment seen on construction sites, excavators come in all shapes and sizes to match the requirements of different projects. As a result, hiring the right excavator for your job can be confusing, especially if you are new to the game.
Knowing what to look for when hiring an excavator can make all the difference for your construction project. A suitable machine will help you get the job done quickly and correctly the first time, saving you time and money.
Read along to learn what to consider when matching an excavator to your project.
Excavator size
Today's excavators are available in varying sizes, from minis to midis, standard and large excavators, to match the demands of different jobs. These excavators have varying work capacities, which affect their suitability for your job.
When sizing an excavator for your project, consider the following factors:
- The size of your work site
- The digging depth of the job
- The heaviest load you intend to carry
- The desired work rate/speed
In general, the bigger the size of the job and the faster you need to complete it, the larger your machine should be.
Excavator versatility
Modern excavators can do more than dig up a site. With the right attachments, these powerful machines can perform a wide range of tasks on construction sites, including clearing land, grading, sorting materials, moving earth and other heavy debris and installing pipework. Some widely used excavator attachments include:
- Buckets
- Augers
- Grading blades
- Grapples
- Rock breakers
- Ripper blades
When choosing your excavator for your job, ensure it is compatible with the specific attachments you intend to use. That way, you can significantly increase the productivity of your excavator rental.
Excavator power source and efficiency
Energy efficiency is one of the main parameters used to gauge the performance of excavators. Two main engine versions exist for excavators — diesel- and petrol-powered — but electric or battery-powered units exist too.
Each excavator fuel option has unique pros and cons that require thorough examination before making a final decision. For example, diesel-powered excavators are ideal for applications that demand great power. On the other hand, electric versions come in handy where ventilation is a big concern.
Generally speaking, high-efficiency excavators result in more savings on energy than low-efficiency models, thus causing machine running costs to reduce.
Are you still feeling overwhelmed by your excavator options? A heavy construction equipment rental company can provide several options when it comes to excavator equipment.
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