While researching, you notice there are more types of excavators than you expected. Excavators are versatile and dependable machines, used for the toughest jobs and in the most difficult ground conditions. So, which one is right for you? Perry Brothers Equipment is here to help you decide on the right machine.
Machine Sizes
Perry Brothers Equipment partners with SANY, who classify their excavators into four sizes: mini, compact/small, medium, and large.
Mini excavators are the smallest machines. They are great for minor jobs and projects, and landscapers, utility workers, and plumbers often use them.
Compact (or small) excavators offer more power than minis. They are used in larger projects, on construction sites, and in agricultural and farm work.
Medium and large excavators are the largest and most powerful. They perform heavy-duty work, and contractors use them for extensive projects. They find use in mining work, underground construction, truck loading, and more.
Features, Attachments, and Limitations
Excavators offer a wide variety of features and attachments, but they have limitations. Each machine has its own features and limitations, so you should learn what yours can do. Knowing what your machine can and cannot do will help you use it more effectively.
Think about your needs on the job site. How much material should your bucket hold at one time? A larger bucket or extra buckets of assorted sizes could be useful. If you are lifting a lot of very heavy material, you need a machine that can lift that weight. How far does your machine need to reach? Machines have different arm lengths, so you need to make sure you have a machine that will reach far enough. If you are often using your machine for deep digging, you need to know the machine’s maximum dig depth. Will that be deep enough for the job? For high power requirements, an excavator with higher horsepower is necessary.
How easily could your machine move around the job site? The maneuverability of machines is important. For a large and open space, a medium or large machine would work great. For a smaller job site, a mini or compact excavator would be a better choice. A mini or compact machine would also be easier if you have multiple job sites.
Another aspect of maneuvering would be tail swing. Conventional machines have a large amount of tail swing, which gives the large machines more stability and is great for open spaces. Zero- or minimal- tail swing machines are better for cramped spaces.
Hydraulic systems allow excavators to perform their functions and use attachments. Most SANY machines come with fully updated technology and hydraulics, which allow you to switch attachments easily. There are a wide variety of attachments available. Some attachments include mulchers, grapples, rippers, rakes, clamps, couplers, hammers, and more. With some research, you will easily find attachments that are compatible with your excavator.
Perry Brothers Equipment is here whenever you are ready to decide on an excavator. We can help narrow down your choices and walk you through the renting or buying process.

