How to choose a mini excavator
Tonnage determines depth, reach and access. These are the five checks to make before choosing a model.
1. Start with the job
Landscaping, pipeline trenches, urban development or municipal services call for different machines. Define the most common trench depth and the space the machine will have to pass through.
2. Tonnage and digging depth
The greater the operating weight, the greater the depth, reach and digging force. Using manufacturer data: the 800 kg TCE08 reaches a depth of 1,715 mm, the 2.5 t TCE25 2,400 mm and the 3.5 t TCE35 3,208 mm.
3. Width and access
A narrow mini excavator fits through accesses that a larger one cannot. The TCE08 is 720 mm wide, the TCE10 940 mm and the TCE15 1,100 mm. Measure doors, gates and passages before deciding.
4. Bucket and attachments
The buckets in the range are 380 to 530 mm wide depending on model. The manufacturer states compatibility with multi-purpose attachments, such as a hydraulic breaker or auger, depending on model. Tell us which attachments you need to confirm the configuration.
5. Cab, engine and tracks
The 3.5 and 4 t versions include a soundproofed cab with air conditioning and hydraulic pilot control. Engines are from brands such as Kubota, Laidong, Koop or Changchai depending on the model. The rubber track protects concrete and asphalt.
Transport
Check the operating weight and overall dimensions in the datasheet to choose the right trailer and loading ramp.
Models in the range
| Model | Operating weight | Engine | Bucket | Depth | Width |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| TCE08 | 800 kg | KOOP KD192F | 0,025 m³ | 1,715 mm | 720 mm |
| TCE10 | 1,000 kg | KOOP 192F | 0.02 m³ | 1,320 mm | 940 mm |
| TCE15 | 1,500 kg | Laidong LD380 | 0.03 m³ | 1,800 mm | 1,100 mm |
| TCE17 | 1,700 kg | Laidong LD385 | 0.04 m³ | 1,900 mm | 1,100 mm |
| TCE18 | 1,800 kg | Laidong LD385 | 0.04 m³ | 1,800 mm | 1,100 mm |
| TCE20 | 2,000 kg | Changchai 390 | 0,045 m³ | 2,150 mm | 1,150 mm |
| TCE25 | 2,500 kg | Kubota D1105 | 0.07 m³ | 2,400 mm | 990 / 1,300 mm |
| TCE30 | 3,000 kg | Laidong 3TE30 | 0.1 m³ | 2,450 mm | 1,300 mm |
| TCE30D | 3,000 kg | Kubota D1105 | 0.1 m³ | — | 1,550 mm |
| TCE35 | 3,500 kg | Kubota D1703 | 0.12 m³ | 3,208 mm | 1,720 mm |
| TCE40 | 4,000 kg | Kubota D1703 | 0.12 m³ | 3,208 mm | 1,720 mm |