Know the Basics: Compact Excavator 101

Summary

Mini excavators, also known as compact excavators, are classified as earthmoving machines with an operating weight of 10 metric tons or less. They emerged in North America in the mid-1980s and have grown tremendously in popularity. Their advanced hydraulic systems can outperform larger tractor loader backhoes, and they offer greater flexibility to dig adjacent to objects, place spoil or load a truck.

Mini excavators are versatile machines built for a simple purpose – fast, efficient trenching and excavating. It is common to see a compact excavator operated in conjunction with a skid-steer or compact track loader, because the machines complement each other and can get work done faster than larger dedicated earthmoving equipment.