Classification of Excavators by Size
Civil works contractors are the construction professionals responsible for carrying out excavation works at different construction project locations. Most excavations are large jobs that call for the use of construction machinery called excavators. All excavators are generally used to dig out earth and move it elsewhere and, they comprise the arm, the boom, the bucket, the undercarriage, and the control/operator's cab as the major components. Regardless of these similarities, all excavators are not built the same in all aspects. Excavators come in a selection of sizes so that different users can find a product that exactly matches their project requirements.
Let's take a look at some of the different excavator sizes found on the construction market today for hire.
Mini excavators (minis)
Commonly referred to as compact excavators, minis are the smallest range of excavators available on the market. They are an ideal choice for excavation jobs that need to be carried out in tight spaces. Because of their small size, mini excavators can be easily transported to the jobsite without much hassle. Even though minis provide the least digging forces and lift capacities, they are highly adaptable to small working areas, especially where passage through narrow doorways is required.
Full-size excavators
These are the biggest range of excavators available for use in construction projects. They can attain the greatest dig depths and lift the heaviest loads. These excavators are usually full-featured, which makes them highly versatile machines. But due to their massive size large footprint, they may not be operated in tight places. Therefore, full-size machines cannot match the adaptability associated with their compact-sized counterparts.
Mid-sized excavators (midis)
Midis offer users with the best of both worlds. In terms of digging forces and lift capacities, midis rank higher than minis and almost in line with full-size machines. They are an appropriate choice of excavating equipment for jobs that are too large for minis to handle but also too small for the full-size machines. Midis are normally still compact enough to allow for hassle-free transportation of equipment to the project location as well as convenient operation of the equipment onsite.
Given that excavator hire and operation costs depend upon the size of equipment that you choose, it makes good financial sense to settle for midis when you require something that falls in between minis and full-size machines.
If you need to clarify anything before you can hire an excavator, it is best to consult your trusted equipment provider.