Excavators are flexible tools that experts may utilize for landscaping and construction projects. However, a conventional excavator is a big equipment that frequently cannot enter into small locations. This is where the small excavator comes in.
A micro excavator’s tiny shape enables it to travel and work on smaller job sites. Even so, small excavators exist in a variety of sizes. Here’s a comprehensive reference on mini excavator sizes and how to choose the best size for your next job.
Most Common Mini Excavator Sizes
Excavator size is defined by its weight. More precisely, micro excavators are categorized as any under 10 tons (20,000 pounds), however they can operate as small as under one ton. The weight of the machine finally decides its lifting ability when selecting a tiny excavator; nonetheless, that does not automatically follow that employing the biggest size would complete the task more quickly.
Let us examine more closely the most typical mini excavator sizes and how to properly utilize them.
Less Than 1-Ton Mini Excavator (800-1,999 lbs)
Some excavators tip the scales at under one ton, making them excellent tools for little tasks. Their small size allows for simple operation and movement even in limited areas. For a homeowner working on a do-it-yourself landscaping job, their small size makes them the perfect tool.
Digging trenches for utilities or other comparable activities like installing piping for a sprinkler system is particularly suited for a tiny excavator of this size. These excavators, being modest operating weight, lack the power to rip through rocks and very compact terrain the way an excavator of more weight can. If your project calls for extra power yet calls for tiny space work, think about choosing the next size up.
Key takeaway: For modest tasks like yard work on a home with limited area, mini excavators under one ton are acceptable tools. But little surfaces might need a bigger excavator.
1- to 2-Ton Mini Excavator (2,000-4,000 lbs)
Mini excavators with a weight of one to two tons are still little, but they have more power and can dig a little deeper. This is the smallest size offered by several manufacturers of mini excavators, and it is offered by the majority of brands. Among the numerous well-known brands, Bobcat provides a wide range of sizes.
Ideal for trenching and preparing the ground for the installation of utilities and drainage systems, mini excavators in this size range can dig between seven and eight feet. Additionally, a grading bucket of this size may be used by contractors to level the ground and create a smooth surface.
Loads of dirt, stone, timber, and other heavy objects may be moved and dumped with ease using excavators weighing between one and two tons. This size range of excavators is more than enough for smaller demolition jobs, such as removing asphalt.
Important point: Excavators weighing between one and two tons are suitable for tasks such as grading surfaces, tearing down minor buildings, and digging trenches up to ten feet deep.
3- to 5-Ton Mini Excavator (6,000-10,000 lbs)
Despite its small size, this mini excavator offers greater power and utility. Typical tasks for this size excavator are trenching, excavating foundations, and general construction site preparation.
Great for contractors working on pipe or cable installation, an excavator of this size can dig trenches between eight and twelve feet. The extra power behind this excavator is appropriate for excavating foundations fit for houses and other non-commercial projects.
A mini excavator of this size may accomplish site preparation duties, including cleaning the land by moving debris and plowing snow.
Important point: Construction uses three- to five-ton excavators for trenching up to 12 feet, foundation digging, and job site cleanup to get ready for the next work.
6- to 10-Ton Mini Excavator (12,000-20,000 lbs)
You would still think this is the largest size category of excavator. A bigger excavator from this category should be considered if you want the biggest power and digging capacity still suitable for a limited work area.
Though verify the model’s characteristics to guarantee it meets all your digging requirements, mini excavators weighing six to ten tons may excavate as deep as 15 feet. Common tasks for a tiny excavator are backfilling and trenching. This size of mini excavator may also be used to excavate foundations for smaller commercial buildings and houses.
Excavators in this size category are also used for demolition, clearance of large materials from job sites, stump and rock removal from land parcels, and other activities.
Key takeaway: Six- to 10-ton excavators can dig up to 15 feet deep and are excellent for trenching, backfilling, excavating foundations, clearing land and hauling construction supplies.
Mini Excavator Specs and Considerations
Although all excavators are classified by weight, there are additional criteria to take into account when hiring a tiny excavator. Choosing the appropriate mini excavator for a job requires consideration of all three factors: digging capacity, size, and engine power. Here is a closer examination of the eight most frequent excavator specifications.
Operating Weight
Operating weight determines mini excavators. Operating weight refers to a small excavator’s working weight. The operational weight is the total of the machine’s weight, an average-sized operator’s weight, and the fuel sustaining its operation.
Essentially, the operational weight of the machine is the counterbalance to the load of the bucket. A greater running weight is required if a project calls for significant lifting and excavation through thick materials.
Digging Depth
An excavator’s digging capacity or depth defines how deep it can penetrate a surface. A common guideline for micro excavators is the bigger the size, the farther it can dig. Naturally, excavator brands and models vary, so you should always verify that a machine’s digging requirements will fit your demands.
Overall Dimensions
Its tiny size that can fit and function in limited areas is one of the key motivations for anyone running a mini excavator. That so, small excavators still vary in design and size. To make sure the height, breadth, and length of the excavator are the best fit, it’s smart to double-check the measurements of the area you are working in.
Engine Power
Usually, engine power of a micro excavator is measured in kilowatts (kW) or horsepower (HP). The engine power rating shows how much power the engine can provide. Higher engine power allows greater energy for penetrating dense surfaces and excavating big loads.
Bucket Breakout Force
Measured in pound-force, bucket breakout force is the greatest force an excavator bucket can exert. Knowing the breakout force of the machine is essential as it defines its lifting and digging ability. Essentially, the larger the breakout force, the more suited the machine is for managing scooping up big loads.
Arm Reach
The reach of the arm is its extending distance. Though you are working in a tiny area, this need might not be as important. Operating an arm that is excessively lengthy in a limited work area could be challenging. Always verify that the reach of an excavator is long enough to fit your digging and reaching requirements, but not so far that it becomes bothersome to the project.
Swing Space
A mini excavator’s swing is the area it needs to turn clear of obstructions. Working in small or restricted areas is seen as the boom (the arm) and tail swing of the excavator. For working in compact areas, low and zero-swing excavators are offered.
Dumping Height
An excavator’s dumping height is the highest point from which its arm can dump or scoop material from its bucket. The height is calculated by measuring the ground to the highest point of the bucket when it is fully extended and in the dumping posture.
Because it defines the height of the dumpster, truck or other containers the machine may load or unload, dumping height is a key factor to consider.
Mini Excavator FAQ
Should you still want more details about small excavators, we got you covered. Here are the responses to many of the most often asked questions regarding micro excavators and their constraints.
What Are the Limitations of a Mini Excavator?
Although small excavators are clever tools, they do have certain restrictions to consider. Among the most frequent restrictions on a micro excavator are:
Usually built for smaller depths and shorter ranges than bigger excavators, they are In some uses, such as excavating deep ditches or reaching over barriers, this might restrict their usage.
- Lifting capability: They could not be appropriate for destroying and lifting very huge things since their lifting capacity is lesser than that of bigger machines.
- Stability: They are far lighter than their bigger counterparts, which might affect their stability on uneven ground. A bigger machine might be required if a construction location calls for an excavator to traverse very sloped or rocky terrain.
- Gasoline capacity: The operating duration doesn’t last as long without regular refilling since smaller gasoline tanks than larger machines.
When deciding between a little excavator or its bigger equivalent, give the particular needs of the task close attention to guarantee the machine you select will satisfy the needs of the project.
What Is the Price of Renting a Mini Excavator?
Renting an excavator costs varies depending on size, rental length, and location. Here are the sizes of mini excavators available for hire along with their basic prices.
| Weight Class (Pounds) | Daily Rate | Weekly Rate | Monthly Rate |
|---|
| 2,000 – 3,999 lbs | $186 | $542 | $1,569 |
| 4,000 – 5,999 lbs | $196 | $483 | $1,685 |
| 6,000 – 7,999 lbs | $211 | $649 | $1,769 |
| 8,000 – 9,999 lbs | $284 | $916 | $2,281 |
| 10,000 – 11,999 lbs | $310 | $935 | $2,502 |
| 12,000 – 13,999 lbs | $303 | $872 | $2,661 |
| 14,000 – 15,999 lbs | $362 | $1,112 | $2,861 |
| 16,000 – 17,999 lbs | $316 | $1,115 | $3,625 |
| 18,000 – 19,999 lbs | $388 | $1,147 | $3,391 |
What ‘s the Price of Buying a Mini Excavator?
For construction companies, landscapers, and DIY homeowners tackling heavy-duty tasks, mini excavators are a necessary purchase. Though their small size, adaptability, and economy make them a tempting replacement for full-scale excavators, what really does it cost to purchase one?
Average Price Range of Mini Excavators
Size, brand, features, and whether the mini excavator is new or used all affect its price greatly. Here is a breakdown:
| Mini Excavator Size | New Machine Price Range | Used Machine Price Range |
|---|---|---|
| Less than 1 ton | $8,000 – $15,000 | $5,000 – $10,000 |
| 1 – 2 tons | $15,000 – $25,000 | $10,000 – $18,000 |
| 3 – 5 tons | $25,000 – $45,000 | $15,000 – $30,000 |
| 6 – 10 tons | $45,000 – $85,000 | $25,000 – $60,000 |
What Influences the Price?
Several key factors influence the final price of a mini excavator:
Brand Reputation: Well-known companies like CAT, Bobcat, Kubota, and Yanmar typically charge more.
Included Attachments: More, hydraulic thumbs, augers, and buckets might increase the cost.
EPA-compliant engines, sophisticated controls, and digital diagnostics increase the cost.
Tracks (Rubber vs. Steel): Steel tracks are more expensive but more durable than rubber.
Canopy vs. Enclosed Cab: Cabs with heating and air conditioning are more costly.
