Compact excavators may not have the muscle of a loader/backhoe or a mid-size excavator. But these nimble machines aren’t as big or heavy, or as hungry for fuel.
That means they can go places — like small backyards, existing landscapes, and across wet or muddy areas — where the bigger machines can’t, and take on all kinds of digging, loading and grading work when speed and agility will make you more money than sheer brawn.
“Their overall versatility allows compact excavators to be used in many applications and essentially keeps them running while on a job site, regardless of conditions,” says Curtis Goettel, marketing manager for Case Construction Equipment. “They can pay for themselves quickly and operate at low cost per hour during their life cycle. In the end, contractors can charge less to the customer and put more profit in their pockets.”
Most compact excavators come with a hydraulically controlled blade for use in backfilling trenches and for grading small areas. The latest models offer a number of design and technological advances to make work easier while boosting productivity.
“Center-swing booms allow the unit to dig or operate attachments directly parallel to building foundations, fences or other obstacles,” Goettel says. “Two-speed transmissions give them faster ground speed. Zero-tail-swing allows operation near obstacles.
“Joystick pilot controls and proportional-flow hydraulics provide smooth and intuitive control of the excavator and any hydraulic attachments while reducing operator fatigue. Cabs with heat, air conditioning, radios and heated suspension seats increase operator comfort. That means you spend more time in the seat working and making money.”
