Swing Boom
A swing boom (as opposed to a fixed or standard boom) can move left to right while the cab of the excavator does not rotate. For example, the Rhinoceros XN mini digger swing booms can go 60° left and 60° right.
This offers a great advantage in some use cases:
- Tight quarters or confined spaces as there may not be space to turn the whole excavator.
- Alongside fixed objects like a wall or with ditches as seen in the image on the right
- Trenching especially near structures where precise position is required, utility work where offset digging may be required and others
If you are unsure exactly what the excavator will be used for, a swing boom offers more flexibility.
On top of increasing versatility, a swing boom can also improve efficiency as it reduces the need to reposition the excavator.
On the other hand, a fixed boom is rigidly attached and only moves up and down. This simplicity means it’s less expensive, has lower maintenance needs and potentially higher lifting power and durability.
If you are working in open spaces, doing heavy-duty excavator or bulk material movement then a standard boom may be more suitable.
Extension Tracks
Extension Tracks allow the tracks to be retracted in or extended out.
When extended, the tracks provide a wider base, improving the machine’s stability. This is helpful when operating a full reaching, handling heavier loads or working on uneven terrain as it reduces the risk of tipping. The widened base also distributes the ground pressure more, reducing the risk of damaging soft surfaces such as grass or loose soil.
When retracted, the tracking provides a narrower base and overall silhouette of the excavator. This allows the excavator to pass through tighter spaces such as between structures, gates and some personnel doorways. For example, the Rhinoceros XN10-8 with extension tracks can shrink to 800mm wide. This can be a major advantage when working indoors or in urban areas.
On the other hand, some disadvantages of extension tracks include:
- Cost: higher upfront cost and higher maintenance costs if not regularly cleaned and lubricated
- Retracted state: while the extension tracks are retracted, it is easier to over the mini digger and should only be used when needed to manoeuvre through narrow areas