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Wheel loaders can be more productive when integrated with some advanced features. These features not only increase its productivity but also improve wheel loader’s overall performance, efficiency and job site safety. Manufacturers are constantly focussing on the above aspects and launching the upgraded versions of wheel loaders, offering the advanced features as a standard or as an option on their equipment. Here are some of the features, when incorporated, enhance the wheel loader’s productivity.

Hydrostatic Transmission

Wheel loader manufacturers have introduced the hydrostatic transmission to replace the traditional mechanical transmissions. This drive system provides a high power output per unit mass and has infinitely variable and stepless speed. In addition, up to 90% of the maximum torque is available at startup. Hydrostatic drive transmissions provide a benefit here due to their high efficiency, which contributes to reduced fuel consumption. Manufacturer tests have shown that fuel usage can be reduced up to 10% with the new hydrostatic drive systems compared to mechanical drive transmissions. Hydrostatic, four-wheel drive with creep mode and dynamic braking gives operators speed control and efficient engine RPM when working in tight areas. The hydrostatic drive also reduces tire slippage, which results in faster cycle times and less wear and tear on the tires.

Joystick Steering

Joystick steering adds productivity to wheel loaders. Configuring a machine with and using joystick steering can be key in a production-focused application. Joystick steering designed with safety and redundancies eliminates the need for a steering wheel in the cab, opening up leg room and forward visibility to further aid comfort and safety, ultimately enhancing productivity. It reduces operator fatigue and increases productivity considerably. Manufacturers claim that as much as 20% higher productivity is achieved with a joystick and stick steering over a steering wheel.

Increased Productivity with Onboard Scales

Onboard scale systems reduces the operator guesswork providing exact feedback about how much payload a machine is carrying in the bucket that helps the operator to load trucks faster and reduces the possibility of overloading or under-loading the trucks. Thus, onboard weighing systems improve productivity by providing real-time material weight to the operator. This can significantly reduce both machine and truck overloading, which decreases wear on both units and avoids costly issues such as overweight fines and partial dumping.

Ride Control Boom Suspension Systems

One feature that can increase wheel loader performance is ride control boom suspension systems. Ride control not only impacts comfort, it allows an operator to traverse a jobsite at greater speeds without spilling material from the bucket. The wheel loader will rock up and down, but the material doesn't dribble out all over the place. The boom suspension (or ride control) is the option that has yielded the most production gains in many applications. It reduces spillage on load and carry operations, and allows the operator to travel at high speeds while remaining in control and operating safely. Test result showed that approximately 15% higher productivity is achieved when the wheel loader travels equipped with ride control. The suspension system can also be turned off for better productivity in specific applications. Ride control also helps eliminate stresses on the loader linkage and frame, which is important to prolonging the life of the machine.

Operator Assistance Systems

Operator assistance systems are being developed by manufacturers to help operators improve their loading methods. Many manufacturers include productivity enhancing features such as return-to-dig and adjustable loader kickout height adjustments. The boom kickout is especially helpful if the operator is loading a truck at the same height for an extended period.

The return-to-dig function allows the operator to set a position to which the boom will lower prior to filling the bucket at the pile. These features provide quick and easy inputs from the operators to get the working equipment back into the position to engage material for loading. These functions automate processes that would otherwise be performed manually, providing precision and efficiency. Auto-dig option allows the machine to control most of the dig cycle, which can be very helpful to novice operators. In addition to controlling the dig cycle, the system also optimizes engine rpm and torque, which results in fuel savings for the machine.

Collision Avoidance Technologies

Typical radar detect collision avoidance technology provides an audible and visual alarm when the machine is backing up and approaching an object. The colour touchscreen display shows coloured bars to indicate distance remaining. The radar is speed-sensitive, meaning that if the machine is backing up too fast, the alarm will sound sooner to allow for operator reaction time. This feature can help avoid damages to machine or property and helps operators of all expertise to be more confident, and therefore productive.

Simplified Operator Cab

A simplified operator cab improves comfort and productivity. Manufacturers are continually working to improve the operator experience through the inclusion of more advanced technologies and a simplified interior. The operator cab is an important aspect of a machine design as operators typically spend their entire workday in the cab. It is important to note that comfort is directly linked to operator productivity. The more comfortable he is in the unit, the more productive hours are out of him. Features like the comfort of the seat can have a major impact on operator performance. Putting all necessary controls in an easy-to-reach position, also aids in both comfort and productivity. The controls can include joysticks, push-button switches, rotary thumbwheels and levers, and even display screens. With all machine controls in one area, operators are not having to strain to reach controls in various positions and are better able to keep their attention focused on their work.

Quick Coupler

Attachments expand wheel loader versatility. The key to getting the most productivity from a wheel loader is the investment in a quality attachment quick-change mechanism — which is optional on most manufacturers’ machines. Many of the efficiencies are gained from operators being able to rapidly change attachments with a quick coupler from the comfort and security of a cab. Additionally, some coupler systems have been designed to eliminate greasing, requiring less maintenance and fewer replacement parts.