Understanding the Parts of an Excavator
An excavator relies on many different parts to get the job done. Read on to discover the key parts and their function. For more information or to shop excavators for sale, visit Bobcat of Pittsburgh/Erie/Indiana County.
Key Excavator Parts in the Undercarriage
The undercarriage is the lowest section that helps move the excavator.
The Tracks
Excavators rely on tracks, rather than wheels, to navigate the work site. The track parts are made up of reinforced plates, which are connected with pins and are run over rollers.
The Track Frame
The main body of the undercarriage is the track frame, which is a rectangular frame with the track bodies on the sides. It's connected to the house with a center pin. The swing bearing, slew ring, and swing gear are parts on the track frame that allow the excavator to swivel around.
The Final Drives
This collection of excavator parts include a hydraulic motor and gearing system connected by a drive shaft to the engine. They work together to get power to the track. They also allow the tracks to be powered individually so that the excavator can turn while moving or on the spot.
Key Excavator Parts in the House
The house is found above the undercarriage and has the operator controls and the power source.
The Operator Cab
This enclosed cabin contains the excavator controls and the operator's seat. The enclosed design helps protect the operator from the elements, allergens, and falling debris.
The Counterweight
Adding a fully extended digging arm on its own can cause an excavator to tip over. As a preventative safety measure, a counterweight is added into the upper housing near the rear of the machine.
The Engine
The engine provides power to move the tracks and provides power to the hydraulic pumps. Two of the pumps get pressurized oil to the arms, accessories, and swing motor. The other pump is lower pressure and helps decrease the physical effort needed to operate the controls.
The Fuel and Hydraulic Fluid Tanks
These excavator parts are placed in the rear housing and close to the engine. This location makes them easily accessible for quick refueling.
Key Excavator Parts in the Arm
The arm sticks out from the excavator's main body and tackles the physical work.
The Boom
The boom is the upper part of the digging arm and controls up and down movements. It's attached to the front of the house. With most excavators, the boom can only move vertically. But some models use a knuckle boom, which can move left and right.
The Stick
A hinged joint attaches this excavator part to the end of the boom. It helps provide the digging movement for the excavator.
The Bucket
The bucket is placed at the bottom end of the stick and is attached by a hinged joint as well. It can scoop up materials and be tipped to drop the materials.
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