Excavation Machinery: Methods and Costs is a practical reference for engineers, contractors, and students that covers the construction equipment used in earthwork and excavation.
This edition updates and expands the discussion of excavators, scrapers, graders, dredges, and related power shovels, with clear descriptions of how each machine works and where it shines on the job.
The book combines technical detail with real-world cost and performance data. It explains how modern excavating machines are built, operated, and applied in railroad work, mining, irrigation, drainage, and open-cut projects. You’ll find guidance on selecting equipment, understanding operating costs, and assessing factors that influence productivity in different sites and conditions.
What you’ll experience
- Descriptions of major machine types, including drag-line excavators, scrapers, graders, and shovels, plus their field advantages.
- Cost data and practical considerations for planning and estimating earthwork projects.
- Real-world examples from railroad construction and other large-scale works to illustrate use and performance.
- Tips on comparing equipment options and understanding how local conditions affect results.
Ideal for readers involved in construction, mining, or infrastructure projects who want a solid, field-tested reference on how excavating machinery contributes to efficiency and cost control. It’s a useful companion for those evaluating equipment needs and planning large earthwork operations.