If you’re wondering about the most flexible heavy machinery on a construction site, we have to say it’s the excavator. In fact, it’s often referred to as the “Swiss Army Knife” in the industry because of its multi-tasking capabilities on almost any type of project. The flexibility is mainly because of the range of class sizes and multiple attachment options that come with it.
So, if you’re looking for an excavator, here are things you need to know about boom configurations:
1. Standard Boom
Also known as the mono boom or the standard setup, this excavator comes with a decent bucket size range and has a good reach. Therefore, it’s one of the most popular setups today.
2. Two-Piece Boom
This is a versatile excavator that can out-lift a mono boom close to the machine. However, the standard boom has more reach, and at full extension, it can out-lift a two-piece boom.
What makes a two-piece boom a great choice is that it allows excavators to change their bend to reduce the working height. That’s why the two-piece boom is used for works under the bridge or a building. When it comes to the cost, there is only minimal difference between a standard and two-piece boom.
3. Long-Reach Boom
If the job site involves cleaning ponds and canals, then a long-reach boom is an excellent choice. It is ideal for waterworks that require extra reach. The length of the boom comes in various sizes, and it’s dependent on the manufacturer and machine model.
4. Two-Piece Offset Boom
This boom has knuckles off to the left or the right, which makes it ideal for work in tight spots that only allow for limited swings. However, this will compromise the lifting capacity if you’re using a larger machine due to the knuckle and the cylinders out on the boom. Therefore, you need to increase the weight in front of the machine.
A two-piece boom is more expensive and requires more maintenance. However, you will usually see this boom in cities due to the many tight spots an excavator needs to work on.
5. Wheeled Excavators
Since you’re on the market for an excavator, you might have noticed that wheeled excavators are growing so much in popularity. This is because they work like a crawler excavator with more versatility. They can be used for lifters, on the highway, or barriers. When you need it for a different job, you can fold the outriggers and get to work again.
Other Attachments
It’s also important you’re familiar with the different excavator attachments:
- Buckets: A common excavator attachment with teeth-like edges that help with digging and scooping. It comes in varieties.
- Auger: This attachment helps bore into the ground, and it’s powered by hydraulic circuits.
- Breaker: These are similar to jackhammers but only larger in size.
- Clamp: This allows you to pick up large materials like tree stumps and concrete that are too big for a bucket.
- Coupler: This allows operators to switch between tools and attachments without a crew quickly.
Conclusion
When choosing an excavator, the boom configuration plays an important role. Knowing how to choose the right one is important to ensure you meet your project’s needs.
If you’re looking to buy heavy equipment in Canada, Heavy Duty Direct is one of the best places to go to. We serve sellers and buyers of heavy equipment, trucks, trailers, and attachments. Contact us today!