A face shovel excavator is built for moving big loads of material fast – especially when you’re digging above track level. Instead of pulling the bucket toward the cab like a normal digger, the face shovel pushes into the material, scooping it forward. You’ll see them used in mining, heavy earthworks, and when handling bulk materials like clay, sand, or crushed rock.
These machines are fitted with a front-mounted bucket that’s connected to a powerful arm and boom system. The whole setup is designed for maximum force and short, repeated loading cycles. That makes them ideal for stockpiles, embankment cuts, or shifting material into dumpers over short distances.
Face shovels are heavy-duty – usually tracked and powered by large diesel engines to handle rough terrain and big weights. Many have enclosed cabs with good visibility and electronic controls for precise movement. Depending on the model, the bucket position can be adjusted both vertically and horizontally, giving the operator full control over digging angles and depth.
They’re not your everyday site digger – but when the job calls for serious loading power, these machines get it done. And like with any large plant, proper training and awareness are essential. Misjudging angles or overloading can quickly lead to equipment strain or unsafe conditions.
La Servicii de formare în construcții și instalații, we offer CPCS and NPORS-recognised training for operators working with face shovel excavators and other specialist machinery. Whether you’re shifting heavy spoil or loading aggregate on a quarry site, we’ll help you do it right – safely, efficiently, and in line with UK site standards.
