1. Loading Position Selection

During the loading process, to improve efficiency and save fuel, operators often build a "platform" for parking. The "platform" shortens the distance that the working device of the equipment needs to lift, making loading and unloading more effortless. Less effort means less need for high throttle, thus saving fuel.

2. Cylinder Angle Selection

Most construction conditions require close coordination between the boom and the bucket. When the boom cylinder and the bucket cylinder form a 90° angle with the linkage, the pushing force of the bucket/boom cylinder is maximized, enhancing work efficiency.

3. Bucket Angle Selection

When performing stripping and loosening operations, the angle between the bucket and the ground is crucial. Generally, when the bucket is at a 30° angle to the ground, with the boom nearly vertical, it is the most fuel-efficient angle.

4. Boom Digging Range

Typically, the boom operates most efficiently when it moves from a 45° angle on the far side (front) to a 30° angle on the inside (rear). Avoid extending the boom to its farthest point and then retracting it (end of cylinder stroke), as this creates high resistance, low efficiency, and increased fuel consumption.

5. Layered Excavation and Soil Removal

In any digging condition, especially when laying foundations or digging trenches, use layered excavation. This not only makes the edges of the trench neater, ensuring straightness, but also allows the three cylinders to work under the least stressful load. When throwing soil or loading, start with the top layer of soil; do not start from the bottom, as the soil above presses on the soil below, requiring more force to lift the arm. As long as each dig is full, there is no need to excavate from the bottom.

6. Working Device Coordination

Most mini excavators are equipped with a dozer blade, and its use is quite frequent, which also leads to issues with the lifespan of the walking end. When pushing earth, first loosen the soil with the bucket, then push in layers. If you can't push, try not to force it. If unavoidable, use the boom to pull while pushing, like climbing a hill, to reduce the load on the walking motor, protect the walking end, and extend its lifespan. When digging a trench, excavate in layers for faster speed.

7. Avoid Prolonged Idle Time

In everyday construction, many clients' equipment idle time accounts for 40-50% of the operating time. During idle, the fuel consumed by the engine does not create any value; it's merely a waste. For example, for an excavator that works 2000 hours a year, if the idle time reaches 40% and considering an idle fuel consumption of about 3.7 liters per hour, this excavator would incur an extra annual fuel cost of about 20,000 yuan. This is a significant expense.