What does exceeding the design limits of an excavator primarily impact?

Exceeding the design limits of an excavator primarily impacts safety and operational efficiency. When an excavator operates beyond its specified limits, such as weight capacity or reach, it can lead to several critical issues, including instability, potential tipping, or mechanical failures. This not only poses a risk to the operator and surrounding personnel but can also result in costly damages to the equipment.

Operational efficiency is also affected; the machine may not perform effectively when pushed past its intended parameters, leading to increased wear and tear, slower work progress, and higher fuel consumption. Therefore, adherence to the design limits is essential for maintaining a safe working environment and ensuring that operations run smoothly and efficiently.