Choosing the Right Excavator

Excavators are a substantial investment for any company and buyers must not only consider what is required for today’s needs, but for those of tomorrow.

Choosing the right equipment will mean avoiding costly upgrades in the near future, and also allow the business to have the tools for growth.

Buyers need to be aware that there’s a balance in selecting a machine — such as the increased manoeuvrability and relative ease of transport of a small excavator — while needing to get maximum lift power that typifies a larger excavator.

One of the world’s most popular excavator manufacturers, Case, has a strong name for performance, durability and power which are vital to most construction operators.

The manufacturer also has a wide range of models in different sizes and lift capacities available through Earthmoving Equipment Australia.

SIZE:
Selecting one requires knowledge of the current work demands and those in the future so it’s important to consider the advantages and disadvantages of a large machine — that may be powerful for most jobs but may be too big — and a small machine that may struggle with the workload.

POWER:
In choosing a machine, buyers must look at the engine performance and its durability and reliability.

High performance may not be required for most of the jobs and it would bring a penalty of higher fuel consumption — and therefore greater operating cost — and potentially greater engine stress that could affect reliability.

FUEL EFFICIENCY:
On the other hand, a less-powerful engine may be overworked, also affecting reliability and even lead to higher fuel use.

Obviously, the less fuel used means the operating costs are lower and, in simplistic terms, fuel-efficient excavators can increase profits.

Fuel use has another side-effect. Many corporations and businesses desire to lower emissions and reduce their carbon footprint.

Because reducing fuel use being one of the easiest and effective ways to become ‘green’, the selection of the right excavator has a second benefit.

OWNERSHIP COST:
Another consideration is cost of ownership. The time spent off the job cuts immediately into company profits and reducing downtime is a major aim for machinery operators.

Regular servicing can ensure that the machine adheres to manufacturer schedules. There are service plans available from some manufacturers and from independent maintenance companies.

Much of the servicing and maintenance revolves around access to the machine’s maintenance points. The quicker they can be accessed, the faster the service can be completed and, again, downtime is reduced.

Aside from the scheduled servicing, operators should make regular visual checks on the condition of the machine. Finding problems — such as a leaking hydraulic connection — before starting the work will reduce bigger problems later in the day.

ATTACHMENTS:
In selecting an excavator, another important consideration is its compatibility with attachments.

The ability for the machine to accept a range of attachments will make it more versatile and expand its ability to do different tasks. These attachments may not be needed immediately, but knowing they can be used in the future is a bonus.

The more flexible the machine is, the greater the variety of work becomes so that the excavator can be used on more jobs and become far more cost effective.

TECHNOLOGY:
The choice of machine also needs to include technology and features, particularly safety equipment.

A machine with the latest equipment will give operators improved comfort which leads to better work conditions and less stress. The high safety levels will also improve operator confidence in the machine and ultimately reduce employee injury.

The latest technology also reflects in engines with better fuel efficiency, smoother and quieter operation, and improved performance.

Earthmoving Equipment Australia, which specialises in Case equipment, said specialises in providing the advice to ensure the buyer makes the right choice in heavy machinery.

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