Main Components and Functions of Small Excavators

  1. Boom

 

  • The boom is one of the most recognizable parts of an excavator. It is a long, articulated arm that extends from the body of the machine.
  • Function: Its primary function is to provide the necessary reach for the excavator. By moving the boom up and down, the operator can adjust the height at which the digging or lifting operation takes place. It also serves as a support structure for the other components like the stick and bucket.

 

  1. Stick (or Arm)

 

  • The stick is the second part of the excavating arm, attached to the end of the boom.
  • Function: It works in conjunction with the boom to further extend the reach of the excavator. The length of the stick can affect the overall digging radius and depth. By controlling the movement of the stick, the operator can position the bucket more precisely, whether it's for digging into the ground or reaching over obstacles.

 

  1. Bucket

 

  • The bucket is the business end of the excavator, attached to the end of the stick. It comes in various shapes and sizes depending on the specific application.
  • Function: Its main purpose is to scoop up and move materials such as soil, gravel, or debris. Different types of buckets are designed for different tasks. For example, a general - purpose bucket is good for most digging and loading operations, while a trenching bucket is specifically designed for creating narrow, deep trenches.

 

  1. Cab

 

  • The cab is where the operator sits to control the excavator. It is usually equipped with a seat, controls, and a console.
  • Function: The cab provides a protected and comfortable environment for the operator. It offers good visibility of the work area, which is essential for precise operation. The controls inside the cab allow the operator to manipulate the boom, stick, bucket, and other functions of the excavator, such as starting and stopping the engine, controlling the speed, and adjusting the hydraulic pressure.

 

  1. Undercarriage

 

  • The undercarriage consists of tracks, rollers, sprockets, and idlers. It is the part that supports the entire excavator and allows it to move.
  • Function: The tracks provide excellent traction, enabling the excavator to move on various terrains, including rough and uneven surfaces. The rollers, sprockets, and idlers work together to keep the tracks in motion smoothly. They also distribute the weight of the excavator evenly, reducing the ground pressure and preventing the machine from sinking into soft ground.

 

  1. Engine

 

  • The engine is the power source of the small excavator. It can be diesel - powered, gasoline - powered, or in some cases, electrically - powered.
  • Function: It generates the power required to drive the hydraulic pumps, which in turn power the movement of the boom, stick, bucket, and the rotation of the upper structure. The engine also provides the power for the movement of the undercarriage, allowing the excavator to travel from one location to another.

 

  1. Hydraulic System

 

  • The hydraulic system is a network of hoses, cylinders, pumps, and valves.
  • Function: It is responsible for transmitting power from the engine to the various moving parts of the excavator. The hydraulic pumps pressurize the hydraulic fluid, which then moves through the hoses to the hydraulic cylinders. The cylinders convert the hydraulic pressure into mechanical force, which is used to move the boom, stick, and bucket. The valves control the flow of hydraulic fluid, allowing the operator to control the speed and direction of the movements.

 

  1. Counterweight

 

  • The counterweight is a heavy mass usually located at the rear of the excavator's upper structure.
  • Function: It balances the weight of the boom, stick, bucket, and the load being lifted. By providing proper balance, it ensures the stability of the excavator during operation, preventing it from tipping over when the boom is extended or when lifting heavy loads.