Selection tables, duty-cycle matching charts and expert guidance procurement engineers copy into tier-1 tender responses — not marketing fluff.
Compare operating weight, bucket capacity, digging depth, breakout force and hydraulic pressure across common Caterpillar excavator and loader classes used on quarry and highway programs.
| Parameter | EX-20 Class | EX-30 Class | Verifier / Source |
|---|---|---|---|
| Operating weight | 20.5 t | 30.4 t | Factory weigh ticket |
| Bucket capacity (HD rock) | 0.9 m³ | 1.4 m³ | ISO 7451 |
| Max digging depth | 6.1 m | 6.7 m | Type-test report |
| Breakout force | 128 kN | 172 kN | Cylinder force calc |
| Hydraulic system pressure | 320 bar | 350 bar | Pump nameplate |
| Engine net power | 130 kW Tier 4F | 200 kW Tier 4F | ISO 8178 C1 |
| Ground pressure (std shoe) | 46 kPa | 49 kPa | Track geometry sheet |
| Gradeability | 35° | 35° | Stability test |
Match site duty to class before you lock purchase orders. Mass excavation in abrasive rock needs different undercarriage and bucket packages than urban foundation digs with frequent road crossings. Verify operating weight against pad bearing capacity and confirm hydraulic system pressure matches attachment kits (breakers, thumbs, tiltrotators).
Prefer EX-30+ crawler excavator packages with HD rock buckets, 600–800 mm track shoes and reinforced arm geometry. Expect shorter tooth life; plan undercarriage wear surveys every 1,000 hours on abrasive haul roads. Document breakout force and digging depth against the blast pattern, not brochure averages.
EX-20 class with general-purpose buckets, fine-swing calibration and lower ground-pressure shoes for soft pads. Cycle time matters less than placement accuracy around rebar and shoring. Wheeled excavator options reduce lowboy moves when the crew relocates daily inside city limits.
Pair excavators with wheel loaders and motor graders. Spec breakout force for compacted fill, confirm transport width for frequent moves, and log pilot pressure baselines at commissioning so later PM audits have a reference.
Attach these artifacts when EPC procurement requires serial-matched evidence before award.
Send site geotech notes, target bucket capacity and average daily dig cycles — application engineers return a class recommendation and spec-sheet pack within two business days.