What is the difference between an LGP and a standard excavator?
A low ground pressure (LGP) excavator spreads its weight across much wider tracks than a standard excavator, so it presses down on the ground far less. That lets it work peat, marsh, riverbanks and reclaimed land that would bog down a standard machine within a few metres.
| Standard excavator | LGP excavator | |
|---|---|---|
| Track width | Standard-width tracks | Extra-wide track pads: 900mm, 1200mm or 1500mm on our fleet |
| Ground pressure | Weight concentrated on a smaller footprint | Same weight spread over a larger footprint, as low as 1.2 tonnes/m² on our fleet |
| Best suited to | Firm, prepared or hard-standing ground | Peat, marsh, riverbanks, reclaimed land and sensitive habitats |
| Ground disturbance | Higher risk of rutting and churning on soft ground | Minimal surface disturbance |
| Risk of bogging on soft ground | High | Low |
Why does ground pressure matter?
A standard excavator concentrates its weight onto narrow tracks. On firm ground that's fine, but on peat, marsh or reclaimed land it sinks, churns up the surface, and can get stuck fast.
A low ground pressure excavator spreads the same weight across much wider tracks. That lower ground pressure lets it work soft, boggy and environmentally sensitive sites that would stop a standard machine.
When do you need an LGP excavator?
If your site includes peatland, riverbanks, reclaimed ground or anywhere the ground can't be firmed up in advance, an LGP machine is the safer, faster choice. It also causes less disturbance, which matters on environmentally sensitive contracts such as peatland restoration and work near watercourses.
What LGP excavators does Drumclog Plant run?
We run the UK's largest LGP excavator fleet, from 3 tonne mini machines up to 20 tonne plus, operated or self-drive, mobilised across Scotland. If you're not sure which machine or track width your ground needs, we offer a free site survey before you commit.