Understanding Excavator Boom Configurations | The Scoop

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Excavators are often referred to as the "Swiss Army knife" of the construction industry, and for good reason—they are multi-tasking machines capable of handling almost any job site. While many attribute their versatility to a wide range of sizes and attachment options, a significant factor contributing to this flexibility is the excavator's boom configuration.

Whether you are new to excavators or relying on product brochures to specify machinery, understanding these boom configurations may prove beneficial when selecting a machine for a specific application.

Types of Boom Configurations

• Mono Boom (Standard Boom): The mono boom, or standard boom, is the most common configuration. It provides a good reach and accommodates a decent range of bucket sizes. Some users opt for a mass excavation setup with a shorter boom and stick, allowing for the use of larger buckets. For example, the 42-ton Volvo 380E excavator can be equipped with a 20' 4" (6.2 m) mass excavation boom and an 8' 4" stick. This configuration is productive, as it enables faster movement and handling of materials, though it may limit reach.

• Two-Piece Boom: This configuration is highly versatile and allows for greater lifting capability near the machine compared to a mono boom. However, the mono boom extends further. A two-piece boom's design lets you adjust the boom’s angle, lowering the working height. This is particularly beneficial for operations requiring access beneath bridges or within structures. The cost difference between mono and two-piece booms is minimal, providing options tailored to specific work requirements.

• Long-Reach Boom: Long-reach excavator booms are advantageous for tasks such as cleaning ponds and canals, where extended reach is necessary. The length of these booms varies by manufacturer and model; for instance, the long-reach version of the Volvo EC380 excavator measures 27' 11" (8.5 m) compared to the standard boom’s 21' 2" (6.45 m), offering a maximum reach of 48' 5" (14.75 m). It’s worth noting that designations like "L" in EC380EL indicate a long undercarriage, while "LR" signifies long reach.

• Two-Piece Offset Boom: This variant allows the boom to pivot to the left or right, making it useful in tight spaces. For instance, when working in confined alleys, the boom can be adjusted to dig parallel to the tracks. However, note that it may reduce lifting capacity due to added weight. While two-piece offset booms can be pricier and require more maintenance, their ability to maneuver in limited spaces makes them popular in urban environments.

Generally, many customers prefer a two-piece boom for wheeled excavators and a mono boom for crawler excavators.

A Note on Wheeled Excavators

Wheeled excavators are gaining popularity in the U.S. as contractors recognize that they operate similarly to crawler excavators, but offer greater versatility. With outriggers raised, these machines can move easily across neighborhoods without damaging the ground. When transitioning to a new job site, simply fold the outriggers and drive to the next location.

With outriggers, wheeled excavators provide stability comparable to crawlers and sometimes even have a wider footprint, enhancing stability. While crawlers perform better in muddy or rough terrain, it's advisable to consider wheeled excavators for specific applications.

A Unique Value, Only from Volvo

Volvo sets itself apart from competitors by offering a lifetime frame and structure warranty on all excavator booms, arms, and frames, the only manufacturer to provide such a guarantee. When you purchase from Volvo, you can have confidence that your equipment is built to last.

To explore our full lineup of excavators and find the right boom configuration for your job, please visit our website. If you're ready to make a purchase, Volvo dealers across North America stock a variety of medium and large excavators for your next project.

By John Waldron

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