Construction projects are unique and challenging in nature. As a contractor, you have a limited time frame to complete a project and the resources are crucial in such a scenario. Among many other challenges in construction projects, the biggest one is to select the right type of heavy equipment.
Heavy construction equipment is used for various purposes in large-scale projects. With a boom in the construction sector and more projects are coming forward, there would be a huge demand for civil engineering equipment.
Hiring the right type of construction equipment will not only let you timely complete your projects but would also ensure cost savings and profitability. There would be fewer defect-related claims and you can even avoid delay penalties.
New and modern construction equipment is capable of doing multiple tasks at hand. Now the machines are equipped with innovative technologies. They are fuel-efficient and precise in undertaking different tasks.
So, here’s our take on different types of machinery used in civil construction projects:
Table of Contents
Excavator
Hydraulic excavators are among the most important heavy construction equipment in any mega construction project. With its long-boom and powerful engine, it can help you with a variety of tasks such as; digging heavy soil, breaking concrete, or rock. Modern excavators are equipped with several features to enhance productivity and progress. Excavators are versatile and popular in construction sites. Modern excavators comprise the hydraulic engine that general hydraulic force to control the mechanical arm or boom of the machine. For the movement, two arrangements are used – wheels or crawler chain.
So, if you’re looking to take the plunge of heavy construction that includes earthwork like a cut or fill for housing projects, you must consider an excavator hire or purchase for your fleet. As there are different types of excavator hire machinery available, you will need to speak with a technician to decide which type you require depending on the specifics of the project.
Backhoe
Backhoe loaders are famous construction equipment that can help you with small demolition, light transportation of building material, digging holes/excavation, landscaping, and breaking asphalt. We call it a backhoe because of the motion of the digging bucket. A typical backhoe scoops the earth or material backward i.e. towards the body of the machine. A typical backhoe comes with a digging bucket mounted on the end of a two-part articulated arm.
The main difference between this machine from a typical excavator is the front-loading blade that lets you move the excavated dirt or material. It is a highly versatile and functional piece of equipment for the construction sector. It is faster and lighter than a standard skid steer and can lift heavier loads.
Loader
Different types of loaders are also used in the construction industry to move or load materials such as soil, rock, sand, and demolition debris. Backhoe and skid steer loaders are very common but dozer loaders and wheel loaders are also there in the market. Compact track and multi-terrain loaders are used in special cases or projects. Loaders are mainly used for loading materials into dump trucks. You can also lay pipes, clear rubble, or even do a light digging job.
Grader
A grader or a road grader is a form of heavy equipment used in grading soil or reach in road construction work. It can flatten a surface during a grading project with the help of blades attached at the front and center of the machine. The motor graders can give a very smooth finish grade, unlike rough grading by scrapers or bulldozers.
Cranes
In construction projects, there’s always a need to lift or pick heavy material or equipment. That’s where a crane comes in handy. With a hoist rope or chain system, it can lift tons of heavy material moving them horizontally or vertically from one place of the job to the other.