Excavators are powerful pieces of heavy machinery used in various construction and industrial applications. They consist of a boom, dipper (or stick), bucket, and cab mounted on a rotating platform known as the “house”. This cab sits over an undercarriage with either tracks or wheels, allowing the excavator to move across different terrains. The primary function of an excavator is to dig and move large quantities of earth, but with the right attachments, they can perform a wide range of tasks, making them indispensable on construction sites. Fused has the best selection of used excavators for sale and other used heavy equipment for sale at the right price. 

Excavators are essential tools in the construction and mining industries thanks to their versatility and efficiency. They are commonly used for digging trenches, holes, and foundations, which are crucial for building structures. In addition to excavation, these machines are employed in material handling, demolition, and dredging activities. In mining, especially open-pit mining, excavators are used to remove overburden and extract valuable minerals. They also play a significant role in forestry work, snow removal, and even underwater operations, proving their adaptability to various environments and tasks.

Buckets: may be switched out depending on the project or material being handled  

Crushers: crush hard materials into smaller pieces (i.e. recycling) 

Rippers and Breakers: break up ground and tough material (i.e. frozen soil) 

Grading Beams: level surfaces 

Shears: cut through metal 

Brush Cutters and Mulchers: maintain, remove, or process vegetation 

Crawler Excavators: equipped with tracks, fit for rough terrain 

Wheeled Excavators: equipped with wheels, better on flat surfaces 

Mini Excavators: small, good for tight spaces  

Medium Excavators: suitable for larger construction sites and public works 

Large Excavators: Used in large scale projects like mining and highway construction. 

The lifespan of an excavator is typically measured in operating hours, with most machines lasting between 10,000 to 20,000 hours. This range can vary based on the type of excavator, the intensity of its use, and the quality of maintenance it receives. Heavy-duty work tends to wear out excavators faster, bringing their lifespan closer to the lower end of the range. Conversely, machines that are well-maintained and used for lighter tasks can last longer, reaching up to 20,000 hours. Regular maintenance and timely repairs are crucial to extending the operational life of an excavator.

Shop Fused for the best selection of used excavators and used excavator attachments for sale and auction. We’re the go-to place for all your used heavy machinery needs with brands you can rely on.  

Caterpillar: renowned for models like the Cat 24 and Cat 120 

John Deere: popular models include the 836C and 885B 

Komatsu: best known for models like the GD655-6 and GD655-7 

Volvo: popular models include the G740E