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CAPITAL EQUIPMENT NEWS
SEPTEMBER 2017
26
Stansfield says when selecting a
skid steer loader and whenever the two
loader arm configurations are in question,
there are two issues to look at. “Are you
considering lifting at maximum height with
forward reach as a key component? If so,
then the vertical lift arm configuration will
be the ultimate choice,” says Stansfield.
“If one is predominantly digging and
lifting material at 50% of the maximum lift
height, then the radial lift loader would be
the ideal solution.
Stansfield also adds that the attachment
to be used also plays a crucial role in the
choice of the correct loader arm design.
“For example, pallet forks work effectively
with vertical lift loaders when placing pal-
lets or objects at maximum lift height due
to the reach advantages of the vertical lift
path arm design,” he adds.
Ultimate tool carrier
One of the key attributes of a skid steer
loader is its versatility, and this machine
has simply been designed as the ultimate
tool carrier. But, how does the type of
attachments influence the unit one has
to buy? According to Stansfield, the flow
rate required to operate the attachment,
as well as the physical attachment’s
operating weight, will dictate the loader
platform size and whether high-flow or
standard flow auxiliary hydraulics are
required on the particular loader.
Rengaraju agrees that skid steer loaders
are indeed preferred for their versatility.
“These machines are equipped with a
quick coupler for changing attachments
quickly,” he says. The tools required for
an application often have an influence on
the machine configuration. “For example,
if a customer wants a solution to cut
concrete along a road for laying cables, a
hydraulically-powered wheel saw would
best work with a loader which has higher
hydraulic flow and pressure to deliver the
desired productivity,” says Rengaraju,
adding that, therefore the machine will
have to be configured with high-flow
hydraulics.
The use of heavier tools, according to
Rengaraju, such as powered wheel saws,
may require additional rear counterweights.
On the other hand, if a skid steer is used
to dig and grade with a general purpose
bucket and occasionally with a broom
for street cleaning, then standard flow
hydraulics will suffice. “Other external
factors, such as the temperature and dust
may lead to selecting an enclosed cab,”
adds Rengaraju.
Other considerations
In addition to the basic configuration
(width, height, weight, lift height and
rated operating capacity), Rengaraju
reasons that safety is a key consideration
on any site and a rear view mirror and
a rear view camera can provide added
visibility to improve awareness to working
surroundings.
The same view is shared by Stansfield,
who further reiterates that site specific
safety requirements are an important
consideration in any buying decision. “These
include the need for a closed cab and air-
conditioner, stop blocks, fire extinguisher
and in some applications fire suppression
systems as well,” says Stansfield.
Rengaraju says productivity is also a key
parameter and factors such as operator
specific machine settings, ride control and
return to dig/work tool positioner, may also
dictate the choice of a skid steer loader
unit one has to buy. Comfort, especially
where long working hours are the order of
the day, may also point towards the need
A vertical lift design
delivers higher lifting
heights and extended
reach at the top portion of
the lift cycle.
SKID STEERS
“Are you considering lifting at
maximum height with forward
reach as a key component? If
so, then the vertical lift arm
configuration will be the ultimate
choice.”
A radial lift machine
has a lower weight and
lower cost than a vertical
lift model of a similar
configuration.