Views: 0 Author: Site Editor Publish Time: 2026-05-25 Origin: Site
The operating procedures for compact excavators are closely interlinked, with clear guidelines covering pre-operation, during operation, and post-operation. Remember this: safety is the key to maximum efficiency.
A thorough equipment inspection is the first step toward safe operation and can prevent most equipment breakdowns and unexpected emergencies.
Certified Operators and Site Surveys
Operator Qualifications: Operators must undergo professional training and hold the appropriate operating certification. This is a fundamental industry requirement; unlicensed personnel are strictly prohibited from operating the equipment.
Work Environment: Before starting work, thoroughly survey the site and remove all obstacles. Pay special attention to the blind spot of the right-side rearview mirror, which is a contributing factor in 70% of accidents; if necessary, assign a dedicated person to direct operations.
Daily Inspection Checklist (Must be checked before every operation)
Fluid Systems: Check the levels of fuel, hydraulic oil, engine oil, and coolant to ensure they are sufficient and there are no leaks.
Critical Components: Inspect hydraulic lines for oil leaks or damage; ensure tracks are properly tensioned with no breaks or derailments; verify that all bolts are secure.
Safety Devices: Check that seat belts, rearview mirrors, and audible/visual warning devices are functioning properly.
Attachment Connections: If installing attachments such as a hydraulic breaker, ensure connection bolts are tight and check hydraulic lines for leaks to prevent detachment and potential injury.
Start the mini excavator’s engine
Sound the Horn: Sound the horn before starting the engine to warn people in the vicinity.
Idle Warm-up: After starting, let the engine idle for 3–5 minutes, especially in cold winter weather, to ensure all systems are fully lubricated.
Never “jump on or off”: When getting on or off the machine, use the handrails and footrests to maintain “three-point contact” for stability and prevent falls.
Excavation Operations
Optimal Conditions: When excavating, maintain a 30-degree angle between the bucket teeth and the ground to minimize cutting resistance.
Avoid Overloading: Never exceed the machine’s rated load capacity, as this can damage the hydraulic system. In particular, avoid striking hard objects with the bucket or using it to “smash” through obstacles.
Rock Handling: When encountering hard rock, “work around” it by following the direction of cracks. For large, unbroken rocks, be sure to break them up before excavating; never strike them directly with the bucket.
Traveling and Operating on Slopes
Proper Posture: When traveling, position the drive wheels (final drive) facing backward to protect the travel motor. Keep the boom parallel to the tracks, and maintain a bucket clearance of 20–40 cm above the ground; avoid raising the bucket too high.
Operating on Slopes: When ascending or descending slopes, the drive wheels should face downhill. Sharp turns or coasting while shifting gears on slopes are strictly prohibited. On steep slopes, use the work equipment for auxiliary support.
Water Crossing Limits: When crossing water, the water depth must not exceed the upper edge of the idler wheels (or the center of the track rollers) to prevent water from entering the lubrication system.
Shutdown Requirements
Parking: Park the machine on flat, solid ground, lower the bucket completely to the ground to unload, and remove the key.
Idle Cooling: Before shutting down, let the engine idle for about 5 minutes to allow high-temperature components, such as the turbocharger, to cool down gradually.
Break-in Period Maintenance (Critical for New Excavators)
New machines require special care during the break-in period (approximately 100 hours). Start with light workloads and gradually increase intensity; never operate at full load. It is recommended to reduce the load by 20%–30%–37. At the same time, frequently check the temperature of all components and inspect for leaks.
Core Maintenance Principles
Fluids and Filters: This is of utmost importance. Check fluid levels daily and strictly follow the manual’s recommended intervals for changing engine oil, hydraulic fluid, and filter elements.
Cleaning and Inspection: Clear debris from the radiator and machine body daily; perform a thorough maintenance check weekly, including inspection of drive belts and track tension.
Welding Warning: Welding is strictly prohibited while the engine is running. Before welding, be sure to turn off the main power switch and position the ground wire close to the welding point (within 1 meter) to ensure that current does not flow through precision components such as the main bearings.
For easy reference, here is a list of the most important safety no-go zones:
❌ Driving without a license / under the influence / while fatigued
❌ Standing under the bucket
❌ Using the swing to push or pry
❌ Forcing operations on rock or frozen ground rated at Grade 5 or higher
❌ Holding onto an unlocked door frame while the machine is swinging
❌ Failing to relieve hydraulic system pressure during maintenance
❌ Carrying people or long objects in the bucket
❌ Making sharp turns or coasting in neutral on slopes
❌ Operating near high-voltage power lines (maintain a safety distance of at least 5 meters)
❌ Abusive operation: sudden turns while traveling at high speed, or using momentum to fling soil
