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Despite their diminutive size, compact excavators are often subjected to harsh applications. Yet, when properly selected and fitted, these machines can thrive in the most demanding environments.

Bobcat Co. designs it excavators with the assumption they will be used in tough applications. "We assume that almost any excavator we build is going to end up with a breaker on it just because it is such a commonly owned or rented attachment," says Tom Connor, excavator product specialist. "From the basic plumbing, work group structure, pin sizing, etc., we basically assume there is a high probability the excavator will spend 10% to 50% of its life in demolition applications. Your main focus may be excavation. But if you run into a situation where you have to bust rock, we don't want you to have to rent another machine or beef up your machine to allow that."

The design of key components will give you an idea of the unit's overall durability in such applications. "For example, IHI compact excavators come standard with a one-piece boom, which is more durable in a demolition application," notes Kendall Aldridge, IHI/Compact Excavator Sales.

Wacker Neuson incorporates structural steel and high-quality components in its compact excavator line. "Our torsion-resistant X-shaped chassis frame, the solid welded structures and the steel castings used in high-stress areas ensure that our machines are robust," says Jay Baudhuin, compact equipment manager. "Also, our pins and bushings are purposely designed to be oversized."

High-stressed bearings are supported by replaceable hardened steel bushings with special machined grease grooves. "These bearings, pins and bushings mean the machines can withstand severe-duty applications, there will be lower maintenance cost and higher resale value," says Baudhuin.