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Writer's pictureRALPH COPE

The Role of 20-Ton Excavators in the Scrap Metal Industry: How Vikfin Parts Keep Machines Running

Updated: Nov 25



The scrap metal industry is the unsung hero of sustainability, transforming discarded materials into reusable resources and reducing the strain on natural reserves. At the heart of this industrious sector are 20-ton excavators—workhorses equipped to handle the heavy lifting, sorting, and loading of metal scraps. But even the most robust machines face wear and tear in such demanding environments, which is where Vikfin steps in with high-quality parts to ensure these machines stay operational.


The Scrap Metal Industry: A Brief Overview

Recycling scrap metal is a meticulous process involving collection, sorting, cutting, and processing materials for resale or reuse. From ferrous metals like steel and iron to non-ferrous metals such as copper, aluminum, and brass, the industry relies on precision and efficiency. Here, 20-ton excavators shine by:

  • Lifting and Moving Heavy Loads: With powerful hydraulics, these machines handle oversized or awkwardly shaped scrap that human labor cannot.

  • Sorting Materials: Equipped with magnets, grabs, or shears, excavators efficiently separate metals.

  • Feeding Crushers and Shredders: By loading scrap into processing machinery, excavators ensure a seamless recycling workflow.

Their versatility makes 20-ton excavators indispensable, but their rigorous workload leads to significant wear on key components.


Key Challenges for 20-Ton Excavators in Scrap Yards

Scrap yards present a unique set of challenges for excavators, including:

  1. Corrosive Environments: Prolonged exposure to rust, moisture, and sharp objects accelerates wear.

  2. High-Impact Operations: Lifting, smashing, and cutting heavy scrap puts immense stress on components.

  3. Continuous Use: Limited downtime in fast-paced scrap yards means less time for maintenance.

When these challenges lead to machine breakdowns, the resulting downtime can cripple operations. That’s where Vikfin steps in, offering reliable parts to get excavators back to work.


How Vikfin Keeps 20-Ton Excavators Running

Vikfin specializes in refurbished OEM parts, ensuring that your excavators perform at their best even in harsh environments. Let’s explore some of the critical parts Vikfin supplies to the scrap metal industry:

1. Steel Tracks: Durability for Tough Terrain

Steel tracks bear the brunt of the excavator’s weight while maneuvering over rough scrap yard terrain. Worn-out or unevenly damaged tracks can lead to instability, reduced efficiency, and even accidents.

  • Vikfin Advantage: Vikfin stocks a wide range of steel tracks for 20-ton excavators, including those with 190mm pitch and 46 shoes. These tracks are designed for longevity, ensuring optimal performance under heavy loads and uneven ground conditions.

2. Engines: Powering Productivity

An excavator’s engine is its powerhouse, converting fuel into the mechanical energy needed for every movement. In the demanding scrap yard environment, engines often face issues like overheating, contamination, and wear.

  • Vikfin Advantage: Vikfin offers high-quality used and refurbished engines for 20-ton excavators, including popular models like the Volvo D6E. These engines undergo rigorous testing to ensure reliability and efficiency, reducing fuel costs while maintaining maximum power output.

3. Swivel Blocks: Precision in Movement

The swivel block, or rotary manifold, allows the excavator’s upper structure to rotate smoothly while maintaining hydraulic flow to the tracks. Frequent turning and lifting in scrap yards make this component prone to leaks and wear.

  • Vikfin Advantage: Vikfin provides OEM swivel blocks that are thoroughly inspected and refurbished. By choosing a Vikfin swivel block, operators can ensure smooth and precise movement, avoiding costly breakdowns.


Minimizing Downtime with Vikfin

Every minute of downtime in a scrap yard equates to lost revenue. Vikfin helps minimize downtime by:

  • Extensive Inventory: Vikfin maintains a large stock of parts, reducing lead times for repairs.

  • Expert Knowledge: With specialized staff, Vikfin ensures that customers find the right part for their machine, the first time.

  • Cost-Effective Solutions: Refurbished parts offer the reliability of OEM components at a fraction of the price of new ones.


Maximizing Excavator Performance in Scrap Yards

In addition to sourcing quality parts from Vikfin, operators can take proactive steps to extend their machines’ lifespan:

  1. Regular Maintenance: Schedule routine inspections to catch wear early.

  2. Proper Lubrication: Keep moving parts well-oiled to prevent friction damage.

  3. Timely Replacements: Swap out worn components before they lead to cascading failures.

By combining these best practices with Vikfin’s high-quality parts, scrap yard operators can ensure their 20-ton excavators perform reliably day in and day out.


Why Choose Vikfin?

Vikfin isn’t just a supplier—it’s a partner committed to keeping your operations running smoothly. Here’s why scrap yard operators trust Vikfin:

  • Wide Range of OEM Parts: Vikfin stocks parts for major brands like Volvo, Komatsu, Hitachi, and more.

  • Competitive Pricing: Get high-quality parts without breaking the bank.

  • Customer-Centric Approach: Vikfin’s team is dedicated to solving your challenges quickly and efficiently.


Conclusion

The scrap metal industry relies heavily on 20-ton excavators to power its operations. From steel tracks to engines and swivel blocks, every component must function flawlessly to meet the industry’s demands. With Vikfin’s refurbished OEM parts, operators can minimize downtime, cut costs, and maximize the performance of their machines.


When it comes to keeping excavators running, Vikfin is your trusted partner—because in the scrap metal industry, every second counts.


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