33,000-50,000 lb Track Excavator
The 33,000-50,000 lb track excavator represents the 20-ton class, the industry's primary mass-excavation workhorse. This size class loads a tandem axle dump truck in four bucket passes and swings breakers up to 1,000 lb for heavy demolition and rock breaking. Positioned between the 22,000-33,000 lb Track Excavator and the 50,000-70,000 lb Track Excavator, this band balances production capacity with site mobility.
Cat classes
Pick a size class: capacity and reach differ across the range.
Key specifications
| Specification | Typical range | What it means |
|---|---|---|
| Operating weight | 33,000-50,000 lb (15-23 metric tons) | Defines the size class and determines trailer requirements and ground bearing pressure. |
| Engine power | 74-231 hp | Drives hydraulic flow for digging force, swing torque, and attachment operation. |
| Max dig depth | 21–25 ft (6.4–7.6 m) | Reaches deep utility trenches, basements, and large-diameter pipe installations. |
| Max reach | 30–35 ft (9.1–10.7 m) | Enables work across roadways, large footings, and retention pond slopes from one setup. |
How to choose
This size class is appropriate for high-volume earthmoving, loading articulated and tandem dump trucks efficiently, deep utility installations, and commercial foundation excavation. The larger bucket capacity and digging force outpace the 22,000-33,000 lb Track Excavator on projects requiring sustained production and deep reach. When work involves residential lots, tight urban sites, or trailer weight restrictions under 40,000 lb combined, the 22,000-33,000 lb Track Excavator offers better maneuverability and transport economy. For quarry stripping, large-scale grading, or projects requiring buckets above 2.5 yd³, the 50,000-70,000 lb Track Excavator delivers the necessary breakout force and cycle speed.
What this size handles
- Excavating commercial building foundations 12-20 ft deep
- Loading tandem dump trucks on highway widening and grading projects
- Installing large-diameter storm and sanitary sewer mains in 18-24 ft trenches
- Mass excavation for retention ponds and detention basins
- Operating hydraulic hammers up to 1,000 lb for rock trenching and demolition
- Digging and shaping slopes on dam and levee construction
Safety & operation
- Operators must maintain awareness of swing radius; tail swing and counterweight extend well beyond track width
- Ground bearing pressure and slope stability become critical on soft soils; mats or geotextile reinforcement may be necessary
- Hydraulic hammer operation generates significant vibration and noise; hearing protection and isolation mounts are standard practice
- Spoil pile placement and truck spotting require clear communication protocols to prevent struck-by incidents in high-production environments
Transport & logistics
- Requires lowboy or tilt-deck trailer rated 45,000-60,000 lb; combined GVW typically exceeds simple CDL limits
- Tractor and loaded trailer combination often requires CDL Class A with appropriate endorsements depending on jurisdiction
- Track width and machine height may necessitate overwidth permits; verify state and local transport regulations before moving
Power & supply
- Diesel fuel consumption typically 4-8 gallons per hour under normal digging and loading cycles
- Onboard fuel tanks generally hold 80-120 gallons, supporting 10-20 hours of operation between refueling
- DEF (diesel exhaust fluid) systems on Tier 4 Final engines require periodic topping alongside fuel service
Frequently asked
What bucket size pairs with machines in this weight class?
Can this size class operate a hydraulic compactor or large grapple?
What differentiates a 40,000 lb machine from a 48,000 lb machine within this band?
Compare popular models
Find by spec →Normalised to the same units. A dash means the figure was not published.
| Model | Operating weight | Max dig depth | Max reach | Engine power |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Takeuchi TB2150 | - | - | - | 114 hp |
| Case CX160C | - | 19.9 ft (6.1 m) | - | 124 hp |
| Volvo EC230 Electric | 57,691 lb (26,168 kg) | 22.4 ft (6.8 m) | 32 ft (9.8 m) | 215 hp |
| Volvo EC230 | 57,640 lb (26,145 kg) | 22 ft (6.7 m) | 32 ft (9.8 m) | 173 hp |
| Komatsu WA380-7 | 40,808 lb (18,510 kg) | - | - | 192 hp |
| Komatsu GD655-6 | 37,346 lb (16,940 kg) | - | - | 219 hp |
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Sources
Every specification is verified against the manufacturer's published data, with the source linked for reference.
33,000-50,000 lb Track Excavator
69 models · Page 2 of 2 · Every spec cited to source
