An excavator is a type of heavy machinery or construction equipment used for digging and moving large amounts of earth, sand, and other materials. It typically consists of an articulated arm or boom, a cab for the operator, and a digging bucket or other attachments. Excavators are often used in construction and mining operations, as well as for demolition and landscaping projects. They come in various sizes and designs, with small compact units called mini-excavators, mid-size units and larger heavy equipment known as mining excavators which can weigh several hundred tons. Excavator are also used in dredging, and on oil and gas rigs to drill.