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Types of Excavator Arms

Oct 13 , 2022

Depending on the excavator size class, you can usually choose from three types of boom: standard boom, the long boom, and super-long-reach.

 

For most excavator models, the standard excavator boom configuration usually offers the best lifting capacity and digging power.

 

By choosing a long or super-long-reach, you will be able to reach further and dig deeper. These excavator's arms are particularly useful in applications where there is limited space to reposition the machine correctly, such as downhill.

 

However, as the boom length increases, you will lose some of your lifting capacity and braking power. In some cases, equipping an excavator with a long or super-long-reach with a larger counterweight can help maintain some of its digging capacity.


Long Reach Excavators Booms

 Long Reach Excavators Booms

 

Common hydraulic considerations

Some manufacturers offer a one-way auxiliary hydraulic system as standard equipment. Other excavators come with bi-directional auxiliary hydraulics as standard. If you plan to run attachments in the future, such as a thumb on an excavator, you may need a two-way hydraulic system. If you are sure you will only be digging, then you may be able to get away with it unilaterally.

 

Another reason to choose bi-directional auxiliary hydraulics is if you are using a multi-function attachment. If you think you will be using an angled tilt bucket or any other tilt attachment, you may need this option.


Excavator cab options

Cab options vary from manufacturer to manufacturer, but there are a few popular features. One is increased lighting in the front and sides of the cab. Additional halogen or LED lights can extend your working day.

 

Cameras are also becoming more common. Rear-view cameras are now standard on many tracked excavators and can be added to some smaller excavators. Some manufacturers also offer side-view cameras as an option. They can be particularly handy when slewing around a crowded site.

    Long Reach Excavators Booms

 Long Reach Excavators Booms     

 

Front window and side window cab guards are other options you can find on the market. Customers regularly engaged in demolition, forestry, and recycling work including cab window guards. The guards provide the operator with additional protection against environmental hazards. You can choose a specially designed forestry cab for your machine. Forestry cabs offer greater protection against falling objects.

 

Many excavator manufacturers offer the option of a straight travel pedal. This feature makes it easier for the operator to travel in a straight line and is popular in trenching applications.


Customizing an Excavator Undercarriage

When you buy an excavator, you may have several options when it comes to the chassis, depending on the size of the machine.

 

Small and medium excavators may come with steel or rubber tracks. Rubber tracks are common for small excavators and large excavators that do road work. For steel tracks, a common choice is the width of the track plate. Wider track plates provide more flotation.

 

Many mini excavator manufacturers offer angled or straight shovels (dozers). The blades provide extra stability when digging and allow for light backfilling. Angled blades allow you to adjust the angle of the blade to the left or right to enhance material placement.

 

More excavator shopping tips

Want more tips on shopping for an excavator? Check out how to find the right warranty for you.