Rapid urbanisation is creating demand for compact machines such as mini excavators, which can be used for multiple project applications. Continued acceleration in investment & execution is a major impetus to faster growth. The Union budget presented in February this year increased the capital expenditure outlay by around 35 percent from Rs.5.5 lakh crore to Rs 7.5 lakh crore in the financial year 2022-23. The outlay for capex has been significantly enhanced which is more than double of the levels in FY20. This will continue to boost the infrastructure sector. The increase in the volume of urban infrastructure projects has propelled the requirement for efficient construction equipment, capable of handling several applications even in restricted areas. Mini excavators have emerged as the ideal solution for these requirements. It is witnessing a steady demand because of its accessibility to performing high-level digging operations in confined spaces for varied applications of urban and semi-urban constructions. The mini excavators assist in performing landscaping, excavating, demolishing, picking and placing, materials handling, and construction activities.
Contractors are hiring mini excavators because these machines can easily get into small spaces. These smaller excavators can be transported easily and efficiently. During EXCON 2021, the manufacturers believe that the mini excavator market continues to grow faster with increased mechanisation due to labour shortage as well as shrinking project timelines. It has become very popular in the construction industry, housing and infrastructure sectors. The 3T class has seen continuous growth over the past couple of years. There is also a marginal contribution by the 5T class. Manufacturers are therefore focusing on the market needs and implementing technological modifications that cater to the general demands. Since inception mini excavators have gone through a complete evolution and it’s getting even more modified owing to customization demand. Discussed below are different types of mini excavators used across projects in India.
Mini Excavator Models
Mini excavator with Zero tail swing
The latest machines come with a Zero tail swing that gives these mini excavators a unique advantage to do work in highly confined spaces as well. It also features Control Swing Speed and Hydraulic Pilot Control System along with a full-rotation (FR) design. These mini excavators ensure high power, high efficiency, and low running cost for the construction, infrastructure, agriculture, and utility equipment needs of customers. Their compact design makes it easy to transport in conventional and mini light axle pick-up trucks. Sloped track frame tops are also added to the mini excavators for easy mud removal. All covers of the machine come with a wide opening for direct access to service points and improved serviceability. Some of the other amenities that the machines have are boom deflection, a modern canopy, an AC cabin, for the fatigue-free operation of the operator and Self Diagnostic modules for easy service and maintenance. The mini excavators are in the range of 2 – 4 tonne capacity.
Mini Excavator with Roll-Over Protective Structure
The latest Mini excavators features include ROPS (Roll-Over Protective Structure) canopy, TOP guard, lock lever compulsory for engine start, and convenient foot step for climbing. These features provide a safe work environment for the operators. The models come with ergonomic positioning of controls with 360-degree view. and These mini excavators are designed to be used in a wide range of applications such as Construction, Infrastructure, Agriculture, and Utility equipment needs of customers. Also, they are compatible with various attachments like Rock breakers, Auger, etc. It also features an ergonomic operator compartment design for more operator comfort. The advanced LS hydraulic system, integrated power control and operating mode selection improve speed and performance while reducing fuel consumption. Its impressive properties include not only its power and endurance but also the boom arm‘s precise response characteristics due to the sophisticated hydraulic system.
Mini excavator for challenging conditions and terrains
There are models available right now that provide high digging forces, stability and smooth controllability of working functions. Even with optional heavy counterweight, the mini excavator offers just 280mm of tail overhang and is still compact which allows the machine to be operated in confined spaces. This makes the machine an ideal tool for highly demanding performance applications together with transportability. The machine comes with a steel track and an optional rubber track depending on the operating ground conditions. Long Arm is again a standard and offers high digging depth. The models are equipped with smooth responsive hydraulics that give the level of control demanded by customers in multiple applications, from fine grading and dozing to backfilling. For the operator, the cab combines high visibility with a range of ergonomic features, including a left-hand control console that lifts completely out of the way and the ability to fold the pedals completely away to increase room for the operator’s feet. It is attached with standard features such as the data link system.
Mini excavator for extremely confined workspaces
As the spaces are becoming more confined, carrying out excavation processes is becoming a challenging task. Mini excavators have emerged as the ideal solution and are witnessing a steady demand because of its accessibility of performing high-level digging operations in confined spaces for varied applications of urban and semi-urban constructions. Models are now available with an innovative hydraulic system that makes this excavator fast, smooth, easy to control and can navigate through all types of terrains in the most compact of spaces. Model features a zero tail swing design for optimum manoeuvrability in confined workspaces. Standard features include thumb brackets, large dozer blades, hydraulic quick-couplers for attachments, and hydraulics-ready auxiliary piping. The spacious, ergonomically designed cab reduces noise and increases comfort and visibility. The monitoring system provides the operator with machine status information, including the engine oil pressure lamp, battery charge lamp, engine coolant temperature and a fuel gauge. A centralized lubrication bank is available for faster, easier service and maintenance. For safety the model comes equipped with a dual-locking quick coupler that complies with the latest safety standards.
Mini excavators with an Advanced remote management system
The latest mini excavators come with an advanced remote management system (EVI) as a standard feature and are specially designed for compact places & slurry terrains. Their zero tail swing, boom swing and offset features provide trouble-free manoeuvrability in congested spaces. Standard connections provide many options for adding attachments for manufacturers for various applications. The intelligent control system adapts the pump capacity to the available engine power for greater efficiency and reduced fuel consumption. It also features an ergonomic operator compartment design for more operator comfort. The advanced LS hydraulic system, integrated power control and operating mode selection improve speed and performance while reducing fuel consumption. Its impressive properties include not only its power and endurance but also the boom arm‘s precise response characteristics.
Mini excavators with One Pump Load Sensing System
The One Pump Load Sensing System in mini excavator models adjusts the hydraulic pressure automatically according to the load changes and reacts precisely to the movement of the control lever. Since the engine load is small, various inching and compounding operations can be undertaken while eliminating unnecessary loss of hydraulic flow. Zero-tail swing always keeps the tail of the mini excavator within track-width when swiveling, enabling operation in tight and confined spaces. The boom-swing allows direct digging close to a wall or building without repositioning the mini-excavator. The user-friendly digital panel features a one-touch button operation to view the time, hour meter and tachometer. Warning lamps with code numbers on the display will alert you in case of emergencies such as overheating, hydraulic problems or low battery. The Auto Idle system helps save fuel. When the control levers are in neutral for more than four seconds, the engine idles automatically. Move any control lever and the engine immediately engages. This innovative feature reduces noise, exhaust emissions and running costs. The new, steel-plated V-shaped boom cylinder protector prevents damage when loading.
Mini excavators with the Main Boom Top-mounted lift ram
Modern models are now designed specifically with the rental and contractor segments in mind. Toughness is personified by the full-width solid cast 173kg counterweight that provides maximum protection for the rear of the machine. The heavy-duty strong H frame undercarriage provides rigid support and an open design allowing spoil to fall readily through to the ground preventing excessive componentry wear and minimal cleaning time. For ultimate rigidity, the extending (from 980-1,330mm) undercarriage beams are constructed from a 25mm solid steel plate. The high tensile four-plate boom and dipper design provide maximum strength and durability. The 1,800mm main boom with top-mounted lift ram provides maximum protection for the hydraulic cylinder components.
Conclusion
Mini excavators are used for a variety of project requirements from urban development to agriculture. They are being utilised in projects where space is a constraint, and a normal excavator or a backhoe loader cannot operate and requires greater efficiency with speed. The significant drivers of the mini excavator equipment market in India are the rising use of advanced technology and making it comfortable for the user. The increasing demand for robust, and mobile construction equipment over heavy construction equipment is creating opportunities for mini excavator equipment which plays a major role in the infrastructure development. We have discussed the different features and types of mini excavators being used across projects in India. In an upcoming article we will discuss about other upgraded features and new product launches.
Analysis of Types of Mini Excavator models
Mini Excavator Models
Mini excavator with Zero tail swing
Mini Excavator with Roll-Over Protective Structure
Mini excavator for challenging conditions and terrains
Mini excavator for extremely confined workspaces
Mini excavators with an Advanced remote management system
Mini excavators with One Pump Load Sensing System
Mini excavators with the Main Boom Top-mounted lift ram