Wheel excavators excel in various applications and can navigate areas that other heavy equipment cannot. By considering job site factors, key performance features, and maintenance needs, you can make an informed decision on whether to purchase or rent a wheel excavator.
Matching the Excavator to the Job Site
Before deciding on a wheel excavator, evaluate the scope of work. Determine if the machine will be used for a single job or multiple projects. Consider if it will perform the same tasks throughout its lifespan or if it needs to fit specific workspace constraints.
Wheel excavators, with their rubber tires, are ideal for finished concrete or asphalt surfaces. They are commonly used in highway and street development, bridge construction, building and manufacturing operations, site development, and land improvement. They also excel in ditch-cleaning projects and underground utility installations. Renting might be suitable for short-term needs, while long-term projects may justify a purchase.
Stability on the Job Site
Business owners might question a wheel excavator's stability in heavy digging and lifting. Like crawler excavators that rely on their undercarriage, wheel excavators depend on their tires, dozer blade, and outriggers. These machines can have a front dozer blade with rear outriggers or four outriggers. The dozer blade aids in leveling, backfilling, and stabilizing during digging, with its large bottom and parallel design minimizing ground pressure. Outriggers, which can be controlled individually, level the machine on slopes. When outriggers are deployed, wheel excavators achieve stability comparable to crawler models, enabling similar lifting capacities.
Mobility and Versatility
Wheel excavators offer versatile, mobile performance and can travel quickly to job sites, reducing the need for trailers. They feature adjustable transmission speeds, reaching up to 23 mph for transport and 2.5 mph for rough terrain or ditch-cleaning. These machines can efficiently operate in confined spaces, such as single lanes of traffic, without causing significant disruptions. Their compact design and two-piece, variable angle boom provide optimal visibility and flexibility.
Maintenance Considerations
Wheel excavators have minimal wear items in their undercarriage. Regular preventive maintenance, including visual inspections of tire pressure, wear, and damage, is crucial. Inspect for tread punctures, sidewall damage, and rocks wedged between dual tires, which can cause failures. Steel spacer rings help prevent rock entry, but visual checks remain essential.
Adhering to a preventive maintenance schedule reduces downtime and increases productivity and profitability. Wheel excavators, once seen as niche machines, are now recognized for their versatility, especially in urban areas where they can move between sites without a truck and trailer. Assess job site conditions, performance features, attachment versatility, and maintenance needs to determine if a wheel excavator is the right choice for your business.
Conclusion
Wheel excavators offer unmatched versatility and maneuverability for a wide range of applications, making them a valuable addition to any fleet. By carefully evaluating job site requirements, machine performance features, and maintenance needs, you can determine whether renting or purchasing a wheel excavator is the best solution for your business. These machines are particularly well-suited for urban environments and projects that demand quick mobility and efficient operation in confined spaces. With the right wheel excavator, you can enhance your operational efficiency, reduce downtime, and ultimately improve your overall productivity and profitability. Consider all these factors to ensure that your investment in a wheel excavator meets your specific business needs and contributes to your long-term success.
