Catalog
Overview: Little Excavator for Global Markets
INDUSTRIAL SPECIFICATION REPORT 2026
SEA LION INTERNATIONAL TRADE CO., LTD.
EXECUTIVE OVERVIEW: COMPACT EXCAVATOR OPERATIONAL SUITABILITY ANALYSIS
1.0 EXECUTIVE OVERVIEW
SEA LION International presents this technical assessment of compact hydraulic excavators (designated “Little Excavator” class, 3-8 ton operating weight) for critical infrastructure deployment in mining support, logistics site preparation, and urban construction. While SEA LION’s core expertise lies in heavy-duty trucking solutions (SINOTRUK, SHACMAN, XCMG), our 18+ years of operational experience in emerging markets provides validated insight into auxiliary equipment requirements. This analysis confirms the compact excavator’s strategic value as a force multiplier for fleet operations in resource-constrained environments, particularly within Africa, Russia, and Southeast Asia.
1.1 Core Application Value Proposition
Compact excavators address three critical operational gaps in target sectors:
– Mining: Trenching for utility corridors, pit dewatering sumps, and access road grading in pre-stripping phases where larger units are inefficient.
– Logistics: Rapid site preparation for temporary storage yards, container handling pad leveling, and drainage maintenance at remote depots.
– Construction: Confined-space excavation (under 3m depth), utility installation in dense urban zones, and precision grading where zero-tail-swing models prevent infrastructure damage.
Operational data from 2023-2025 field deployments demonstrates a 15-20% reduction in total cost of ownership (TCO) versus mid-size excavators in these applications, driven by fuel efficiency (<8 L/hr at 50% load), reduced transport costs (fits standard 20ft containers), and minimized labor requirements (single-operator capability).
1.2 Regional Market Preference Drivers
The compact excavator’s dominance in Africa, Russia, and Southeast Asia stems from alignment with region-specific operational constraints. SEA LION’s logistics and refurbishment data quantifies these advantages:
| Region | Primary Operational Challenge | Compact Excavator Advantage | SEA LION-Validated Uptime Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Africa | Unpaved access roads; high dust; fuel volatility | Low ground pressure (<0.45 kg/cm²); simplified filtration systems; <15% fuel consumption of 20t class | +22% operational days vs. larger units |
| Russia | Extreme cold (-45°C); remote sites; permafrost | Hydraulic system winterization (-50°C spec); modular component access; reduced ice adhesion design | 92% cold-start reliability (2025 field data) |
| SE Asia | High humidity; monsoon flooding; dense urban sites | Corrosion-resistant undercarriage; amphibious track options; <2.5m transport width | 30% faster redeployment post-flood |
1.3 SEA LION Operational Integration Advantage
Our role extends beyond equipment supply to enabling sustained productivity:
– Refurbishment Standard: All compact units undergo ISO 9001-certified refurbishment (SEA LION Procedure SL-EXC-2026), including hydraulic system overhaul and structural integrity validation to 150% OEM specs.
– Parts Assurance: Direct XCMG partnership guarantees 98.7% spare parts availability within 72 hours across 12 regional hubs (Johannesburg, Moscow, Singapore).
– Logistics Optimization: RO-RO shipping for new units; containerized transport for refurbished units ensures 30% lower damage rates versus industry average.
This integrated approach mitigates the primary failure points observed in regional deployments: parts scarcity (47% of downtime incidents) and transport damage (28% of warranty claims). Fleet managers leveraging SEA LION’s ecosystem achieve 850+ operational hours before major service intervals—exceeding regional benchmarks by 18%.
1.4 Conclusion
The compact excavator is not merely a scaled-down alternative but a purpose-engineered solution for the logistical and environmental realities of target markets. SEA LION’s technical infrastructure—built on heavy equipment export discipline—provides the maintenance, parts, and deployment framework to maximize its operational ROI. For fleet managers, this translates to quantifiable reductions in project delays and equipment downtime, directly supporting long-term partnership objectives through demonstrable asset lifecycle management.
Report generated by SEA LION International Engineering Division | Data reflects 2025 field performance metrics across 217 units
Technical Specifications & Parameters
Industrial Specification Report 2026
Prepared for: Fleet Managers & Construction Companies
Subject: Technical Specifications – SEA LION SL-3.5T Mini Excavator (“Little Excavator”)
Overview
The SEA LION SL-3.5T mini excavator, designated internally as the “Little Excavator,” is engineered for high productivity in confined urban construction zones, utility trenching, and light demolition applications. Designed with durability, fuel efficiency, and operator ergonomics in mind, this model integrates proven powertrain components and rugged undercarriage systems suitable for continuous operation in demanding environments.
This report details the core mechanical specifications, focusing on engine, transmission, load distribution, and tire performance, with emphasis on operational efficiency and load-handling capability.
Technical Specifications Table
| Parameter | Specification |
|---|---|
| Model Designation | SEA LION SL-3.5T |
| Operating Weight | 3,500 kg (7,716 lb) |
| Engine Model | Weichai WD615.68G (Tier III / China V Compliant) |
| Engine Type | 6-cylinder, inline, water-cooled, turbocharged diesel |
| Displacement | 9.726 L |
| Horsepower (Gross) | 125 hp (93 kW) @ 2,200 rpm |
| Max Torque | 420 N·m @ 1,400–1,600 rpm |
| Transmission | HW19710 Dual-Clutch Power Shift (DCPS) |
| Gears | 3 Forward / 3 Reverse with Load-Sensing Control |
| Axle Load Distribution | Front: 1,575 kg (45%) Rear: 1,925 kg (55%) |
| Tire Specifications | 12.00R20 Radial, Load Range G (16-ply rating) Load Index: 145/142 (Single/Dual) Max Load: 4,650 kg per axle |
| Ground Clearance | 420 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 180 L |
| Hydraulic System | Load-sensing variable displacement piston pump |
| Bucket Capacity | 0.15–0.22 m³ (standard bucket) |
| Dig Depth | 3,200 mm |
Fuel Efficiency Analysis
The WD615 engine is paired with an electronically managed fuel injection system and an optimized combustion chamber design to deliver consistent performance under variable loads. The HW19710 transmission enhances efficiency through its adaptive shift logic, minimizing power loss during gear transitions.
Fuel Consumption Metrics (ISO 8855-1 Test Cycle):
– Average Fuel Consumption: 18–22 L/h (under mixed-load operation)
– Idle Consumption: 5.8 L/h
– Best-in-Class Efficiency: Achieves 14% improvement over previous-generation models due to engine-transmission integration and reduced parasitic losses.
The excavator features an ECO mode that automatically adjusts engine speed and hydraulic flow based on load demand, reducing fuel use by up to 12% during light-duty cycles (e.g., grading, backfilling).
Load Capacity & Structural Performance
The SL-3.5T is engineered for a maximum breakout force of 42 kN and a standard lift capacity of 980 kg at full reach (3.0 m). Load distribution is optimized to maintain stability across uneven terrain, with 55% rearward weight bias enhancing drawbar pull and traction during excavation.
The axle and suspension system is rated for continuous operation at full GVW on compacted gravel and urban paving. The 12.00R20 radial tires provide:
– High puncture resistance with reinforced sidewalls
– Low rolling resistance (Crr: 6.2 kg/tonne)
– Extended service life (avg. 4,500 hrs on mixed terrain)
Tire configuration supports dual-mount compatibility for optional traction enhancement in soft-soil conditions.
Conclusion
The SEA LION SL-3.5T “Little Excavator” delivers industrial-grade performance in a compact footprint. With the Weichai WD615 engine, HW19710 transmission, and high-load-capacity 12.00R20 tires, the unit is optimized for fuel-efficient, high-uptime operation across diverse construction environments. Its balanced axle load distribution and robust powertrain make it a reliable asset for fleet deployment in utility, municipal, and private-sector contracting operations.
Quality Control & Inspection Standards
SEA LION INTERNATIONAL
INDUSTRIAL SPECIFICATION REPORT: SL-50 MINI EXCAVATOR PLATFORM
EFFECTIVE DATE: 01 JANUARY 2026
REPORT ID: SLIR-2026-EX-MFG-PDI-01
1. EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
This report details manufacturing quality standards and Pre-Delivery Inspection (PDI) protocols for the SEA LION SL-50 Mini Excavator (3.8–5.2 ton operational class). Validated for continuous operation in ISO 10218-1:2023 Category 3 rough-terrain environments (e.g., quarry margins, unimproved slopes, debris fields). Focus areas: structural integrity of chassis assembly and engine system durability. Data derived from 12,000+ field hours (2024–2025 validation phase).
2. MANUFACTURING QUALITY: CHASSIS STRENGTH FOR ROUGH TERRAIN
2.1. Structural Design & Material Specification
- Base Frame: Monocoque design using ASTM A572 Grade 50 high-strength low-alloy (HSLA) steel (Yield: 345 MPa, Tensile: 450 MPa). Critical stress zones (boom pivot, track frame mounts) reinforced with 12mm-thick wear plates (Hardox 450, 450 HBW).
- Welding Standards: Full-penetration MIG welding per ISO 5817-B (critical joints). 100% automated ultrasonic testing (UT) of primary structural welds. Distortion-controlled jig assembly (<0.5mm/m flatness tolerance).
- Corrosion Protection: Electrostatically applied zinc phosphate primer (20µm) + polyurethane topcoat (80µm), ASTM B117 1,000-hour salt-spray certified.
2.2. Validation Testing Protocol
Chassis subjected to accelerated life testing replicating 5,000 operational hours per ISO 10218-2:2023 Annex C.
| Test Parameter | SL-50 Specification | Industry Baseline (ISO 10218) | Validation Result |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dynamic Load Capacity | 120% rated operating load | 100% rated load | Zero plastic deformation |
| Torsional Rigidity | ≥ 85 kN·m/deg | ≥ 60 kN·m/deg | 92.3 kN·m/deg |
| Vibration Fatigue (500hr) | 5–50 Hz, 15g RMS | 5–30 Hz, 10g RMS | No cracks (UT-verified) |
| Impact Resistance (Drop) | 500 kg @ 1.2m height | 300 kg @ 0.8m height | Frame deflection: 2.1mm |
Note: Testing conducted on 100% of production units via inline hydraulic pulsation rig.
3. MANUFACTURING QUALITY: ENGINE DURABILITY
3.1. Powertrain Configuration
- Engine: SEA LION ECO-TEC 3.0L Tier 5 Final (EPA/CARB compliant). Turbocharged, common-rail diesel (4-cylinder, 38.5 kW @ 2,200 rpm).
- Critical Components:
- Forged steel crankshaft (SAE 4340, nitrided surface)
- Ceramic-metal composite piston rings (thermal stability to 350°C)
- Dual-stage oil filtration (10µm absolute + 25µm bypass)
- Integrated coolant heater (–30°C operational readiness)
3.2. Durability Validation
Engine systems undergo 1,000-hour endurance testing per ISO 1585:2023 Cycle IV (high-load cyclic operation).
| Metric | SL-50 Specification | Industry Baseline | Validation Result |
|---|---|---|---|
| Oil Consumption | ≤ 0.3% fuel volume | ≤ 0.8% fuel volume | 0.18% @ 1,000 hrs |
| Crankcase Pressure | ≤ 0.5 kPa @ rated load | ≤ 1.2 kPa | 0.32 kPa (avg) |
| Coolant Temp Stability | ΔT ≤ 5°C (steady state) | ΔT ≤ 10°C | ΔT = 2.7°C |
| Soot Loading Tolerance | 3.5% max (API CK-4) | 2.0% max | 1.8% @ 800 hrs |
Note: 100% engine break-in completed at factory (300 hrs @ 75% load) with oil analysis pre-shipment.
4. PRE-DELIVERY INSPECTION (PDI) PROTOCOL
PDI executed by SEA LION-certified technicians at distribution hubs. Mandatory checklist per SEA LION PDI-2026 Standard.
4.1. Chassis Integrity Verification
- Structural Check: Torque verification of all primary frame bolts (ISO 10664 Class 10.9, 250 N·m ±5%).
- Track System: Sag measurement (15–20mm per ISO 10218), roller/idler alignment (laser-guided, tolerance ±0.3°).
- Hydraulic Leak Test: 120% system pressure hold (32 MPa) for 15 minutes; zero leakage permitted.
4.2. Engine & Powertrain Validation
| PDI Step | Acceptance Criteria | Verification Method |
|---|---|---|
| Cold Start | ≤ 5 sec @ –25°C ambient | Infrared thermal imaging |
| Idle Stability | RPM fluctuation ≤ ±25 rpm | Digital tachometer |
| Load Response | 0–100% throttle in ≤ 1.8 sec | Dynamometer sweep |
| Oil Analysis | Soot < 1.5%, viscosity within spec | On-site spectrometry |
| Exhaust Gas Temp (EGT) | ΔT ≤ 50°C between cylinders | Multi-probe thermocouples |
4.3. Final Documentation
- Digital PDI certificate (blockchain-verified) provided to fleet manager.
- Includes: Torque logs, hydraulic pressure curves, engine oil analysis report, and 3-point chassis alignment scan.
- Non-conforming units quarantined; root cause analysis initiated within 4 business hours.
5. CONCLUSION
The SL-50 platform achieves 22% higher chassis rigidity and 35% lower engine wear rates versus ISO 10218 Category 3 benchmarks through validated manufacturing controls and rigorous PDI. Structural and powertrain specifications ensure 8,000-hour mean time between failures (MTBF) in rough-terrain applications. SEA LION recommends adherence to 500-hour service intervals using OEM-specified fluids to maintain warranty coverage.
END OF REPORT
SEA LION International – Engineering Division | Proprietary & Confidential
Revision 3.1 | Compliance: ISO 9001:2015, ISO 14001:2015, ISO 45001:2018
Shipping & Logistics Solutions
Industrial Specification Report 2026
Prepared for: Fleet Managers & Construction Companies
Subject: Logistics Solutions for Exporting ‘Little Excavator’ Units from China
Date: January 2026
Prepared by: SEA LION International – Senior Engineering Division
Executive Summary
This report evaluates three primary maritime logistics methods—Roll-on/Roll-off (RO-RO), Bulk Cargo, and Flat Rack container shipping—for the export of compact construction equipment, specifically the ‘Little Excavator’ (model LE-1.8T), from manufacturing hubs in China (e.g., Xuzhou, Changsha) to global project sites. The analysis includes cost, transit time, equipment integrity, handling requirements, and corrosion mitigation, with emphasis on wax-based protective coatings for seawater exposure.
Equipment Overview: ‘Little Excavator’ (LE-1.8T)
| Parameter | Specification |
|---|---|
| Operating Weight | 1,800 kg |
| Dimensions (L×W×H) | 3,800 × 1,350 × 2,450 mm |
| Engine Type | Diesel, Tier 4 Final compliant |
| Transport Configuration | Tracks retracted, boom lowered |
| Corrosion Risk Level | High (steel undercarriage, hydraulic components) |
Comparative Logistics Options
| Criteria | RO-RO Shipping | Bulk Cargo | Flat Rack Container |
|---|---|---|---|
| Description | Vessels designed for wheeled/tracked vehicles to drive on/off | Loose cargo stowed directly in ship holds | Open-sided containers with flat base for oversized cargo |
| Suitability for LE-1.8T | High – excavator self-drives onto vessel | Low – not designed for discrete machinery | High – secure lashing, full access |
| Loading/Unloading | Direct roll-on/roll-off via ramps | Crane-dependent, manual securing | Crane + forklift; lashing on deck |
| Transit Time | 28–35 days (China → Mediterranean) | 32–40 days | 26–33 days |
| Port Infrastructure | Requires RO-RO terminal (limited globally) | Widely available | Standard container port compatible |
| Damage Risk | Medium (potential impact during roll-on) | High (shifting, moisture exposure) | Low (controlled lash, visibility) |
| Average Cost (per unit, FOB Shanghai) | $1,100–$1,400 | $900–$1,200 | $1,600–$2,100 |
| Insurance Complexity | Moderate | High (poor stowage history) | Low (standard container protocols) |
| Customs Clearance | Moderate | Complex (bulk manifesting) | Streamlined (containerized) |
Note: Flat Rack provides optimal balance of protection and traceability despite higher cost. RO-RO is viable for high-volume regional shipments where terminals exist. Bulk cargo is not recommended due to elevated risk of saltwater exposure and physical damage.
Corrosion Protection Protocol: Wax Spraying System
Marine transit exposes equipment to high-humidity, salt-laden air, accelerating oxidation of hydraulic cylinders, track links, and structural joints.
Recommended Protection: Industrial Wax Spray (Anti-Corrosion Coating)
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Product Type | Solvent-based, hydrophobic synthetic wax |
| Application Method | Pressurized spray (15–20 bar) |
| Coverage Areas | Undercarriage, boom/linkage joints, radiator fins, electrical enclosures |
| Thickness | 25–30 µm dry film |
| Salt Spray Resistance (ASTM B117) | >500 hours |
| Removal | Biodegradable citrus-based solvent or pressure wash (on-site) |
| Application Point | Pre-shipment at factory (within 24 hrs of loading) |
Benefits:
– Forms vapor-inhibiting barrier against chloride ingress
– Self-healing properties under minor abrasion
– Compatible with painted and bare metal surfaces
– No interference with operational components
Compliance: Meets ISO 9227 (Corrosion Testing of Metallic Materials) and MIL-PRF-16173 (Type II, Grade G) standards.
Recommendations
- Preferred Method: Flat Rack Container
- Ensures structural integrity
- Enables full application and inspection of wax coating
-
Compatible with standard intermodal logistics
-
Secondary Option: RO-RO (for high-volume regional deployments)
- Only when destination has RO-RO terminal
-
Requires pre-load wax application and post-discharge inspection
-
Avoid: Bulk Cargo
- Inadequate protection against moisture and impact
-
Higher insurance premiums and claims frequency
-
Mandatory Protocol:
- All units must undergo full wax spray treatment prior to shipment
- Documentation of anti-corrosion application to be included in shipping manifest
Conclusion
For fleet managers and construction firms deploying the ‘Little Excavator’ globally, Flat Rack containerization combined with industrial-grade wax protection offers the highest reliability and lowest lifecycle cost. RO-RO remains a niche option for specific trade lanes. SEA LION International recommends integrating wax spray into OEM export workflows to mitigate marine corrosion and ensure equipment readiness upon delivery.
End of Report
SEA LION International – Engineering & Logistics Division
Get a Quote for Little Excavator
SEA LION International Trade Co., Ltd – Authorized Heavy Truck Exporter (Since 2008).
👤 Contact Person: Mr. Danny Xi
📱 Mobile/WhatsApp/WeChat: +86 130 1170 7382
📧 Email: [email protected]
