Boom Of Excavator are often referred to as the “Swiss Army knife” of the construction industry due to their versatility and ability to perform a wide range of tasks. While factors such as class size and attachment options contribute to their flexibility, one crucial component that often goes unnoticed is the boom. In this article, we will explore the various configurations of excavator booms and their applications, helping you make an informed decision when selecting the right machine for your specific needs.
The standard mono boom is the most common configuration used in excavators. It offers good reach and a decent bucket size range, making it suitable for a wide range of applications. This setup is popular among customers who require a mass excavation setup, which involves using a shorter boom and stick to accommodate a larger bucket. For example, the Volvo 380E excavator offers a 20′ 4″ mass excavation boom with an 8′ 4″ stick, allowing for increased material movement and faster operation due to shorter swing distances. However, it’s important to note that this configuration may have limitations in terms of reach.
Two-piece booms provide greater versatility compared to mono booms. These booms can out-lift mono booms when operating at close proximity to the machine. However, when fully extended, mono booms offer greater reach and lifting capacity. Two-piece booms are especially useful when digging under bridges or in buildings, as they allow for adjustments in the boom bend, reducing the working height. The price difference between mono booms and two-piece booms is relatively insignificant, providing customers with more options to tailor the configuration to their specific requirements.
Long-reach booms are designed for applications that require extended reach, such as cleaning out ponds and canals. These booms enable operators to dig in water while maintaining a safe distance from the edge. The length of the boom varies depending on the manufacturer and machine model. For instance, the long-reach version of the Volvo EC380 excavator features a 27′ 11″ boom compared to the standard boom’s 21′ 2″ length. This additional reach allows for efficient excavation in challenging environments. It’s important to note that the nomenclature may vary between manufacturers, with designations such as “L” for long undercarriage and “LR” for long reach.
The two-piece offset boom is an option available on select excavator models. This configuration allows the boom to knuckle off to the right or left, providing enhanced maneuverability in tight spaces. For example, when working in narrow alleys with limited swing space, operators can adjust the boom to dig in line with one of the tracks next to a structure. However, it’s worth noting that the additional weight introduced by the knuckle and cylinders on the boom may reduce lifting capacity. Two-piece offset booms are more expensive and may require additional maintenance, but they are popular in cities where workspace constraints demand increased flexibility.
Wheeled excavators are gaining popularity in the construction industry, particularly in the United States. These machines offer similar digging capabilities to crawler excavators but with enhanced versatility. Wheeled excavators can easily traverse different terrains without damaging the ground, making them ideal for urban environments. By retracting the outriggers, these machines can be driven across neighborhoods or down streets, allowing for seamless transportation between job sites. Wheeled excavators are stable and have a wider footprint than their crawler counterparts in some instances, providing operators with confidence and stability. While crawlers excel in challenging conditions like muddy or rough terrains, wheeled excavators offer a practical alternative for a variety of applications.
Volvo Construction Equipment sets itself apart from competitors through its lifetime frame and structure warranty, which covers excavator booms, arms, and frames. This guarantee ensures that customers can rely on the durability and longevity of their equipment. Volvo is the only manufacturer to offer this level of warranty, providing peace of mind to contractors and operators. Whether you opt for a standard mono boom or a specialized configuration, Volvo’s commitment to quality and reliability remains consistent.
Understanding the different configurations of excavator booms is essential when selecting the right machine for your specific application. The standard mono boom offers versatility and productivity, while two-piece booms provide greater lifting capacity and flexibility. Long-reach booms are ideal for jobs requiring extended reach, and two-piece offset booms excel in tight workspaces. Additionally, wheeled excavators offer enhanced mobility without compromising stability. By considering these boom configurations and Volvo’s industry-leading warranty, you can make an informed decision and maximize the performance and longevity of your excavator.
