One of the key specifications that both operators and buyers are always after when it comes to a mini excavator is the reach. The importance of this particular spec is that it gives a clear understanding of how well the machine is capable of performing digging, loading and placing materials. But how far can a mini excavator reach?

This article has for its main aim to comprehend the reach of mini excavators, which includes factors that play a significant role in their reach, the way to detect it, and what are the different kinds of models and their maximum reach potential.

Definition of Reach in Excavators

The “reach” of an excavator describes its ability to extend its arm while digging or moving materials. This is such an important measurement for the jobs that require a long distance to be covered without moving around the machine regularly.

Types of Reach Measurements

• Maximum Digging Reach – The horizontal distance starting from the machine’s swing pivot to the farthest point the bucket can extend while digging.
• Maximum Vertical Reach – The topmost the bucket is able to reach when it is pulled out completely.
• Maximum Dumping Height – The highest level the excavator is capable of dumping materials into the truck or a pile of that height.

Importance of Reach in Mini Excavators

• Decides the productivity of excavating ditches and thus going further without the need for machine relocation.
• Facilitates loading vehicles or accurately discharging materials to designated locations.
• Perfect for confined spaces where it is hard to change position.

Factors That Influence a Mini Excavator’s Reach

1. Boom and Arm Length

Mini excavators come with different boom and arm lengths, which significantly impact their reach. Some models offer standard arms, while others provide extended arms for additional reach.

• Standard Arm: Provides balanced performance for general digging tasks.
• Long Arm (Extended Arm): Increases reach and depth but slightly reduces digging force.

2. Machine Size and Weight Class

Mini excavators typically range from 1 to 8 tons, with larger models having greater reach capabilities.

3. Hydraulic System Power

A stronger hydraulic system allows for better control and extension of the arm while maintaining power. High-performance hydraulics enable smooth operation, even at full reach.

4. Counterweight and Stability

Mini excavators have counterweights to balance the extended arm. A heavier counterweight allows the machine to extend further without tipping. Some models offer additional counterweight options for increased stability.

5. Bucket Size and Type

• Smaller Buckets: Allow for a slightly increased reach due to reduced weight.
• Larger Buckets: Decrease reach slightly but improve digging efficiency.

How to Measure the Reach of a Mini Excavator

Determine the reach of a mini excavator by following these steps:

• Position the Machine: Make sure that the excavator is standing on a level and firm base.
• Extend the Arm and Boom Fully: Pull the boom and the arm to the furthest limit.
• Measure the Distance from the Pivot Point: The reach is the line from the middle of the turning to the end of the bucket teeth.

Typically, reach specifications are an integral part of product manuals that manufacturers release and can be considered the standard in this field.

Extending the Reach of a Mini Excavator

In case a mini excavator is insufficient in its standard length of reach, options for extension can be chosen from among these:

1. Using a Long Arm Kit

There is a variety of long-arm kits among manufacturers that contribute to reaching a broader scope. They come as a replacement for the standard arm, thereby increasing the horizontal & vertical reach simultaneously.

2. Boom Extensions

In some cases, you can opt for the use of boom extensions, which will not only expand the distance the excavator can reach, but also allow to do so without upgrading to a bigger model.

3. Attachments with Extended Reach

Aside from your own stick tool; other tools such as telescopic dipper arms can be used to add an extra reach without the need to reduce the power.

Limitations of Mini Excavator Reach

Mini excavators are known to reach out to far-off sectors; they have constraints, though, such as:

1. Reduced Digging Force at Maximum Reach

Extension of the arm causes the machine’s hydraulics to lose power; hence the hydraulic force also moves to make the machine less efficient in breaking hard soil.

2. Stability Issues

Without appropriate counterbalancing, a machine becomes less stable and therefore, over-extending the arm is not advisable, especially when the working surface is not even.

3. Limited Vertical Reach Compared to Full-Size Excavators

Although they are very effective, mini excavators fall way short from the kind of capacities real excavators can give when it comes to very deep excavation and dumping to greater heights.

Choosing the Right Mini Excavator for Your Reach Needs

If you are going to obtain a mini excavator, take into account the following three criteria:

• Worksite Constraints: If working in confined spaces, choose a model with a zero-tail swing design.
• Digging Depth Requirements: If you need deeper trenches, opt for a long-arm variant.
• Load Dumping Height: Make sure the maximum dumping height is compatible with the level of the truck or the container height.
• Stability Needs: Select a type that is equipped with more counterweights for the safe operation at a full reach.

Conclusion

The reach of a mini excavator is a critical factor that has a bearing on the machinery’s performance in different applications. Mini excavators have the ability to reach from 3 to 7.5 meters (10 to 25 feet), the maximum reach being determined by the model, the type of boom, and the weight class. Operators who seek a longer reach could use long-arm kits, boom extensions, or certain attachments.

By following this advice, you will always be in a position to select the best mini excavator that can serve your project requirements, worksite limitations, and stability needs to ensure the machine’s best performance.