Earthmoving is one of the sectors where rental is most frequently used. Each machine has a specific use, including loading and unloading. Construction site loaders are used for these operations. In this article, we will delve into the details of this machine and why renting a loader might be the most convenient solution.
What is a Construction Site Loader?
The construction site loader is also known simply as a loader. It is the machinery par excellence used for loading and moving earth or other bulk materials. This machine falls under the category of earthmoving machines (EMMs), which we discussed in a previous article.
What gives the machine its iconic name is the large shovel located at its front. The shovel is connected to the body of the machine via two hydraulic arms that allow the operator to raise and lower the accessory.
Use and Qualification of the Construction Site Loader
The primary purpose of the construction site loader is to load, move, and unload bulk materials within the construction site. It is not a machine used for digging, but rather for logistical operations on the site. Such as moving large volumes of materials like earth or gravel or loading onto trucks or dumpers. Regulations require in Italy that operators of construction site loaders have specific qualifications, as requested by the State-Regions Agreement of February 22, 2012.
Types of Loaders
Many models and brands of construction site loaders are available on the market and can be easily rented. There are two types of loaders: wheeled and tracked. The former are equipped with four wheels, allowing them to move easily on non-impervious terrain. The tracked versions enable the loader to manoeuvre on difficult or slippery surfaces, such as in quarries.
Depending on the construction site where you will operate, it is important to choose the machine most suitable for the terrain and the work to be done. Wheeled loaders have more power and mobility, making them the most effective solution for loading operations that require continuous movement. The ability of tracked loaders to distribute traction on the ground allows them to be used in more specific contexts, such as towing or pushing activities.
Dimensions and Applications of Loaders
Loaders come in very different sizes. Compact versions, known as skid-steer loaders, are machines with contained dimensions and bulk. They can be used in restricted spaces and generally for jobs where the amount of material to be moved is limited. The machine weight is less than 4,500 kg, and the width is about 1.5 meters, ensuring these machines are manoeuvrable and easy to transport.
The weight of construction site loaders can increase to exceed 28 tons for the largest machines. Loaders of such large dimensions are mainly used in quarries or mines, where there is a need to move large volumes of material. Intermediate versions are often employed in construction, both in building and demolition, as well as in road construction.
How to Choose a Construction Site Loader
As we have seen earlier, it is important to analyse the characteristics of the construction site to choose the best loader. The required power determines the choice of a loader with a greater or lesser operating weight, and consequently different sizes. Depending on the site’s needs, you can choose between a wheeled loader, a skid-steer loader, or a compact tracked loader.
In addition to the machine, it is important to choose the right accessory. The capacity of the bucket is one of the elements to consider. A bucket with a large capacity allows for moving larger quantities of material. Based on the material to be loaded, there are buckets of different sizes and characteristics, such as mixing buckets, light load buckets, or forks. Having the right machine is therefore fundamental, which is why many customers opt for renting construction site loaders.
Our Conclusions
Construction site loaders are earthmoving machines used for loading and moving bulk materials. There are different types of loaders, each with its own characteristics. It is important to choose the one most suitable for the needs of your construction site and the activity you will be performing.
If you still have doubts about how to choose the perfect loader for you, contact us now. We will be happy to help
