4 Considerations Before Using Compact Excavators in Small Spaces

With some jobsites getting tighter, it’s important to rely on compact equipment, specifically Bobcat® compact excavators, that can access confined spaces and still have the power to get the job done efficiently. 

But, how do you know what compact excavator is best? Before bidding on a project and working in confined areas, evaluate the following considerations

Scope Out the Jobsite

First, consider the jobsite and the type of work you and your equipment operators will be completing. If you’re working in established residential neighborhoods with exceptionally narrow passages, measure widths between permanent structures as well as gate or door openings to ensure your excavator can easily travel in between or through openings. 

When working in very tight spaces, consider using Bobcat E10, E17 and E20 compact excavators. They are designed with retractable undercarriages to overcome challenges where larger equipment cannot fit.

The retractable undercarriage allows you or your operators to pass through a gate and then expand the undercarriage when you are ready to dig. In addition, the machines are equipped with a retractable blade to give you greater ability to move in tighter spaces.

Consider Tail Swing Configurations

Today’s compact excavators include a variety of tail-swing types, depending on the jobsite requirements. Minimal tail swing and zero tail swing excavators provide more unrestricted rotation and flexibility when working close to objects or against a wall.

The zero tail swing feature virtually eliminates the chance of the excavator’s tail (house) inadvertently contacting surrounding objects and potentially damaging the structure and machine. The minimal tail swing feature significantly reduces the chance of inadvertent contact, minimizing the likelihood of damage to nearby objects or structures. 

A zero or minimal tail swing excavator of a given size will generally be wider than its conventional tail swing counterpart. If you anticipate routine work where you or your operators must pass through narrow property lines or gates, a conventional tail swing may be a better fit.

The typical width of a conventional tail swing, such as a 3- to 4-metric ton compact excavator, will be about 60 inches, whereas a zero and minimal tail swing excavator with similar performance will have a width of about 70 inches.