Surface mining operations rely extensively on excavators -- powerful machines capable of moving vast quantities of soil and rock to access commodities such as coal, iron ore, and precious metals. Excavators are used to remove overburden, the layers of earth and rock that cover the targeted deposits.
The sheer scale of mining excavators is truly remarkable. These machines can weigh as much as several fully-loaded double-decker buses, and their massive frames dwarf even the largest construction equipment. here' we look at the 10 biggest excavators, by the operating weight of their bucket.
10 Volvo EC950F
Operating weight: 130.1 tons
Country: Sweden
The Volvo EC950F is a 600-tonne excavator with a 38 cubic metre bucket. This machine is notable for its use of a hybrid diesel-electric powertrain, which improves fuel efficiency and reduces emissions. Volvo, the manufacturer, is a Swedish multinational company that specialises in the production of construction equipment, commercial vehicles and other industrial products for global markets.
09 Hyundai R1200-9
Operating weight: 130.1 tons
Country: South Korea
The Hyundai R1200-9 is a 580-tonne excavator with a 35 cubic metre bucket. This machine features a unique boom and arm design that enhances digging force and reach. Hyundai, the manufacturer, utilises advanced telematics technology to monitor and optimise the performance of the R1200-9. The company is a South Korean conglomerate with a growing presence in the construction equipment market, particularly in the Asia-Pacific region.
08 XCMG XE7000
Operating weight: 742 tons
Country: China
The XCMG XE7000 is a 700-tonne excavator with a 43 cubic metre bucket. This machine is equipped with a fuel-efficient diesel engine and a sophisticated hydraulic system. XCMG, the manufacturer, is a Chinese multinational corporation that has become a major player in the global construction and mining equipment industry.
07 Liebherr R 996 B
Operating weight: 745 tons
Country: Germany
The Liebherr R 996 B is a 650-tonne excavator with a 45 cubic metre bucket. This machine features a unique counterweight design, which enhances stability and lifting capacity. Liebherr, the manufacturer, is a renowned Swiss company with a strong presence in the global construction and mining equipment market.
06 Komatsu PC8000-11
Operating weight: 768 tons
Country: Japan
The Komatsu PC8000-11 is a 740-tonne excavator with a 42 cubic metre bucket. This machine is notable for its integrated fleet management system, which optimises productivity and efficiency. Komatsu, the manufacturer, is a Japanese multinational corporation that specialises in the production of construction, mining and industrial equipment.
05 Liebherr R9800
Operating weight: 810 tons
Country: Germany
The Liebherr R9800 is a massive excavator with a 60 cubic metre bucket and a total weight of 800 tonnes. This machine utilises a state-of-the-art hydraulic system to deliver impressive power and control. Liebherr, the manufacturer, is a Swiss company known for its construction and mining equipment, as well as a wide range of other industrial products.
04 Demag H740-OS
Operating weight: 815 tons
Country: Canada
The Demag H740-OS is a 740-tonne excavator with a 38 cubic metre bucket. A key feature of this machine is its diesel-electric hybrid powertrain, which enhances fuel efficiency. Demag, the manufacturer, is a German company that specialises in the production of cranes and other heavy-duty equipment for the construction and mining industries.
03 Hitachi EX8000 7
Operating weight: 911.6 tons
Country: Japan
The Hitachi EX8000 7 boasts a 42 cubic metre bucket and weighs 800 tonnes. This excavator is notable for its use of advanced electronic controls, allowing for precise and efficient operation. Hitachi, the manufacturer, is a Japanese conglomerate with a diverse range of products, including construction and mining equipment for global markets.
02 Bucyrus RH400
Operating weight: 1,080 tons
Country: US
The Bucyrus RH400 is a powerful excavator with a 40 cubic metre bucket capacity. Weighing 900 tonnes, this machine is equipped with a 2,650 horsepower engine. Its unique feature is the use of an automated swing system, which enhances efficiency and precision. Bucyrus, the manufacturer, is a prominent player in the mining equipment industry, specialising in draglines, shovels and other heavy-duty machines.
01 Caterpillar 6090 FS
Operating weight: 1,102 tons
Country: US
The Caterpillar 6090 FS is a massive mining excavator with a 60 cubic metre bucket. Weighing in at 1,500 tonnes, this machine is powered by a 3,650 horsepower engine. Its key feature is the use of a High Pressure Regeneration System, which boosts hydraulic efficiency. The company, Caterpillar, is a leading manufacturer of construction and mining equipment, with a focus on machinery for large-scale surface mining operations.