A very specialized vehicle that is used in the construction and industrial industries are called excavators. Also referred to as a 360 (short for 360 degree excavator) or a digger, the underside of the particular vehicle typically has tracks or wheels that allow the excavator to be mobile. Also consisting of a topside cab, a boom, a stick and an articulated arm, these specific machines are believed to be the next era in steam shovels.
When it comes to an excavator, there are a variety of different options available including a long reach, steam, compact, dragline, suction and power. Because there are many different types of excavators, a wide range of job uses can be accomplished with this machine. Some of the various things that an excavator can do is lift heavy materials, dredge rivers, mine various materials, demolish different structures and build various landscapes. Not only that, but an excavator can come in a many different sizes ranging from 3,000 pounds to 185,000 pounds. Whether it’s a small, mini excavator or a large track excavator, each machine serves a unique process. Before deciding on which one is best for you, it’s very important to understand the job it will be used for.
Typically, all excavators will have the same basic structure that consists of a cab, boom, stick, bucket and tracks for mobilization. The main component of an excavator that houses the operator is the cab. The cab is connected to the deck of the machine by specialized pins that maintain the gears and control the tracks. The next part of the excavator, the boom, is also connected to the cab. The boom uses hydraulic cylinders in order to allow the machine to be lifted into the air. Depending on the specific job, more advanced excavator’s are fully equipped with a swivel so that the boom can operate without interference from the cab. Another important part of an excavator is the stick. The stick will allow for boom extension in order to reach materials like dirt, sand and gravel that are either further away or positioned up high.
As new technologies continue to be introduced, the capabilities of an excavator continue to increase. Now able to handle more difficult jobs than ever before, excavators are no longer restricted to simple digging work. With advanced attachments like hydraulic augers and grapples, these special machines are able to do much more than you might think. Typically used with other pieces of equipment like loader and bulldozers, an excavator is essential in many different milling, digging and demolition projects. Without question, one of the biggest advantages that an excavator provides is its diverse ability to get different specialized jobs done.