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 | 34,480 lb (15,640 kg) | 18 ft (5.5 m) | 28.7 ft (8.7 m) | 114 hp |
| Case CX160C | 36,299 lb (16,465 kg) | 19.9 ft (6.1 m) | - | 124 hp |
| Volvo EC230 Electric | 44,092 lb (20,000 kg) | 22.4 ft (6.8 m) | 32 ft (9.8 m) | 215 hp |
| Volvo EC230 | 44,092 lb (20,000 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
