Types of Construction Equipment

Construction is performed on roads, buildings, and other structures all around us, every day. In order to build these feats of modern infrastructure, specialized pieces of construction equipment are necessary. You can’t just get one type of machine and expect it to perform every task you need to do, though. 

Like other types of equipment, construction equipment is specialized. While some machines can handle multiple tasks with the use of implements or attachments, others are only useful for one or two purposes. Here’s a quick guide to some common types of construction equipment available so you can select the right machine for your work.

1. Excavators

If you have to create a large foundation or dig out earth to create a level base for construction, an excavator is the tool you need. Hydraulic excavators have a boom arm with a dipper that’s attached to a bucket. The lower end of the arm is anchored in front of the operating cab, which is itself on a rotating platform called a “house” that rests on either wheels or tracks. The operator can maneuver the cab around to allow the boom arm to extend and dig.

2. Telehandlers

Agricultural and heavy industries will benefit from the use of a telescoping handler, or telehandler, which is something like a crane combined with a forklift. Instead of simply maneuvering heavy items across the ground, the telehandler’s boom can extend and lift the material up high, allowing you to store and retrieve items from areas that are otherwise out of reach.

3. Compactors

Those who work in road construction will recognize the utility of compactors, which are designed to flatten and compact loose material on a worksite. Compactors come in plate, rammer, and roller styles. Plates typically vibrate and are used to level out a grade. Rammers are used for compacting backfill in trenches. Rollers are good for compacting crushed rock underneath foundations. 

4. Dump Trucks 

If you need to take very large loads of material over long distances on the highway, a dump truck is needed to transport this material safely. Dump trucks are used for handling dirt, gravel, and sand, in addition to being used for hauling away large pieces of debris or demolition waste. The dump truck’s bed may either dump to the side or at the rear.

5. Loaders

These heavy machines are, as the name suggests, used to load or move materials such as minerals, snow, rock, sand, woodchips, logs, asphalt, debris, dirt, and gravel around your worksite. You can find front-end loaders, wheel loaders, skid-steer loaders, and tractor loaders, among many other types. If your worksite requires the maneuvering of these types of materials on a regular basis, a loader can be a practical and versatile tool to have on hand.

When you’re ready to check out new and used construction equipment for sale, stop by our dealership in Lockport, NY, to take a look at our current inventory. We can assist you with financing as well as rental options. Upstate Equipment serves the cities of Buffalo and Amherst, NY.