Types of Heavy Equipment That You Need to Know About

In 2020 alone, there were 235,940 construction managers in the construction industry. There were also 827,100 construction laborers. 

As the construction industry continues to grow, you might wonder what heavy equipment for construction they use for the job. While there are various options, some stand out from the others. Read on to explore the different heavy equipment that you’ll want to use for your next construction project. 

1. Articulated Trucks

Besides the different types of cranes, you’ll want a heavy-duty dump truck. Articulated trucks provide you with a narrow trailer and cab. When you’re working on sites with little to no paved roads, slippery surfaces, steep slopes, or low ceiling heights, it’s a great option. 

2. Backhoe Loaders

Backhoe loaders are regular loaders, backhoes, or tractors. The loading mechanism is in the front of the machine, while the backhoe is in the back. 

It’s great for: 

  • Digging
  • Farming
  • Hauling
  • Excavation
  • Construction

3. Excavators

Some of the best construction equipment includes excavators for large construction equipment. While they can use both wheels and tracks, tracks are a more common feature. 

Construction equipment guides talk about these since they have a long bucket arm that can rotate 360 degrees. The operator will have great visibility when they sit in the cab. 

You can use them for: 

  • River dredging
  • Rough grading
  • Material handling
  • Demolition
  • Brush cutting
  • Excavating trenches
  • Mining

4. Bulldozers

One of the best heavy equipment options out there is a bulldozer. This is a heavy and powerful machine for moving dirt along large open tracts of land. They can also be used for fine grading as well. Due to its weight, it can crush large boulders. 

5. Motor Graders

For moving small amounts of dirt and fine grading, motor graders are the best equipment for construction. Their long blade can be adjusted in order to create a flat surface. 

You can also use a second blade in front of the front axle. This allows you to do some underground mining.

They can be used on gravel roads or fine-grade dirt. Motor graders can also be used to create drainage ditches or sloped surfaces. 

6. Scissor Lift

This equipment is used to raise workers in the air. You can choose from engine-powered or electric scissor lifts. 

If you choose engine-powered lifts, they’re not a quiet option. Whereas, electric scissor lifts are better when you’re looking to make less noise. 

7. Harvester

For gathering crops or grain, a harvester is a great option. You can combine winnowing, threshing, and reaping with this option. It decreases the work of the farmer since it separates straw from the crop. 

Exploring the Different Heavy Equipment for Construction

After exploring this guide, you should have a better idea of what heavy equipment for construction is right for your needs. Would you like to read more construction and lifestyle content?

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