Electric mini excavators are relatively new in the United States construction scene. Not all excavator brands offer this machine, but there are likely to be more products similar to it soon.
The world is continuously looking for ways to minimize the pollution in the atmosphere, including the gas emissions from construction machines like mini excavators. Mini excavator electric machines can be one of the solutions to make construction much more efficient and safer for the workers.
These are the frequently asked questions about electric mini excavators:
Electric Mini Excavator Vs. Standard Mini Excavator
The main difference between an electric and a standard mini excavator is how they are powered. An electric mini excavator uses a battery instead of an engine and fuel tank. It is connected to an electric motor that powers up the machine’s hydraulic system.
These mini excavators often have an excellent battery capacity to allow a full day’s work of usage. Depending on the brand, it can have the same power and capacity as a standard mini excavator to do many jobs with the proper attachment.
Usually, a fully charged battery can run for up to eight hours. However, it would require an overnight charge to reach its total capacity.
What Are The Benefits Of Using Electric Mini Excavators?
If you’re not well aware of it, these are the good things about using mini excavator electric machines:
Zero-emissions
Standard mini excavators release hydrocarbons and other poisonous gas into the atmosphere. They use a diesel engine exhaust similar to generators and most vehicles.
In past years, the world has given a closer look at saving the environment and one of the main actions done for it is the limitation of gas emissions. Many cities now implement zero-emission zones that require vehicles to comply. Of course, it also applies to construction zones in urban areas.
Electric mini excavators are an excellent substitute for the traditional machines used in different job applications, indoors or outdoors. These machines are just as reliable and powerful. They are even a better option for indoor jobs because of their lack of fumes emission that would not work in an area with poor ventilation.
Reduced noise pollution
Unlike traditional machines, electric mini excavators have a quiet operation. They do not produce disturbing noise pollution, making them useful for overnight operations. This is an excellent option for working around residential areas.
Aside from that, you won’t have to worry about gas emissions that could compromise your health. There is always an assurance that you can get the job done as efficiently as using a standard mini excavator, as long as you take the time to charge it to its total battery capacity.
Another good thing about working with less pollution is that workers and operators will have an easier time conversing. They’ll be able to hear each other’s concerns clearly, making the site more job-efficient and safe for everyone.
Performance
Operators note that there is little to no difference between using electric-powered and diesel-powered mini excavators. An electric mini excavator’s performance matches the capacity of most machines often used in construction sites. It also has a faster response time to fluctuations in load due to its connectivity speed between the battery and the electric module. This gives the machine a better operating performance than most standard mini excavators.
Decreased maintenance
Electric mini excavators don’t need regular replacements of oil filters and coolants because they do not run on traditional fuel. This reduces the maintenance interval for this machine.
Electric mini excavators have fewer components that require regular maintenance, resulting in a lower cost and a more affordable option if you want to buy one.
Limitations Of Electric Mini Excavators
Mini excavator electric limitations
There are some limitations when using electric mini excavators. They are as follows:
Battery packaging requirements
Excavators are optimized for diesel engines. They usually carry out heavy work, so a powerful energy source is needed to do the job efficiently.
Batteries are less dense than traditional fuel, requiring extra components to incorporate into the machine. One is the thermal management system that helps relieve the temperature rise of the batteries.
Cooling and heating management
As mentioned, batteries require temperature management to prevent overheating or freezing. This is especially important if the electric mini excavator is used under different weather conditions.
Mini excavators are compact, so the air will have less space to circulate. Most batteries cannot operate below the freezing point so they might be challenging for snow-related jobs.
How Much Are Electric Mini Excavators?
Electric mini excavator cost
Since electric mini excavators are still limited in the United States, there is also limited information on their price. Depending on the brand you plan on buying, electric mini excavators can range between $3,000 to $37,000.
What Jobs Can You Do With An Electric Mini Excavator?
Electric mini excavator jobs
You can use an electric mini excavator like a standard machine for various applications. Although it runs on batteries, it is still powerful enough to perform everyday tasks.
Interior decoration
Electric mini excavators are especially great to use indoors. They don’t emit polluted gases that might be suffocating in an enclosed space.
You can use them in residential areas because they do not produce too much loud noises that would disturb the neighborhood. They are also easy to operate, and mini excavators do not require a license for you to use them.
Gardening
Electric mini excavators are light, so they will not damage your lawn if you need to use them in your garden. These machines can help you dig holes for your new trees or flatten the area for your next backyard project.
You can also use this machine for installing pools and hot tubs. They are powerful enough to dig through tough soil and break down the ground.
Demolition
You might think demolition is beyond their capacity, but electric mini excavators are as powerful as the standard ones you can get from your nearest dealership. You can use them to break down walls and small structures.
Material Handling
Depending on their size, electric mini excavators can be used to handle and transport various materials. You can change the attachment that matches the material you plan on working with.
Digging
Electric mini excavators are invaluable for digging jobs. You can use them to dig trenches and holes and remove soil from an area.
How Long Does An Electric Mini Excavator Battery Last?
Electric mini excavator battery
The longevity of an electric mini excavator‘s battery is based on the brand and the type of battery it is using. For example, JCB’s electric mini diggers can run for four continuous hours on their 3-battery pack, while a 4-battery pack will add two more hours of use.
Ask your dealer if you plan on getting yourself an electric mini excavator.
How Do You Charge An Electric Mini Excavator?
Charging an electric mini excavator is pretty straightforward.
- Remove the key from the ignition and ensure the machine is turned off.
- Take out the charging cable that is usually stored behind the seat of the excavator.
- Plug the charging cable into the machine and ensure it is locked.
- Connect the power charger to a socket near the machine.
- If your charging cable has an in-line switch, turn it on so the charging can begin.
- Look for an indication that the machine is charging. It could be a light at the charging port or control panel.
- Wait for it to reach full charge.
