Figure 9-19.-Step-loading method.Loader OperationA front-end loader can dig excavations, such asbuilding foundations and other belowground areas, ifthe material to be excavated is not too hard.Belowground operations require construction of a rampinto the excavation to bring the material out (fig. 9-17).The slope of the ramp depends on the type of loaderoperated; for example, a crawler-mounted loader maydig a more abrupt approach to the excavation.When loading from a bank or stockpile, use the “V”method shown in figure 9-18 or the step-loading methodshown in figure 9-19. Position the dump truck at abouta 30-degree to a 45-degree angle from the stockpile.Additionally, when possible, load the dump truckdownwind to prevent dirt and dust from blowing backinto your face. Keep the truck close to the work area tominimize loader travel, and keep the work area cleanand level.The bucket is loaded by moving the loader forwardwith the bucket at the desired digging level and with theengine at full-governed speed. As the bucket penetratesthe material, raise the bucket slightly. When the materialfills to the top of the spill board, roll the bucket all theway back (fig. 9-20). The rollback position is main-tained to prevent spillage while backing away.When transporting material, raise the lift arm to givethe bucket the same ground clearance as provided by theloader axle. Keep the travel speed reasonable for safeoperation. Upon reaching the truck, raise the bucket highenough to clear the truck body. Reduce forward speedand dump the load in the center of the dump bed, asFigure 9-20.—Bucket-loading technique.9-9
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