The equipment manufacturer says that operator behaviour not only affects machine health but also the productivity and profitability of the entire site operations. The five common errors it has highlighted are:
1. Not leaving a machine to idle for a few minutes before shutting it down. If an operator consistently shuts down their machine without letting the engine idle for a few minutes first, eventually it will lead to damage or even failure of the turbo charger, which can be very expensive to repair. Volvo CE recommends operators always leave the machine to idle for two to three minutes before completely switching off the engine.
2. Going from forwards to reverse (or vice versa) at high speed. Over a long period of time, regularly shifting the travel direction of a wheel loader at high speed can lead to driveline failure. Considering transmission replacements can cost huge sums, this is one operating error every machine owner should avoid. Volvo CE recommends operators always bring the machine to a complete standstill before going from forwards to reverse or vice versa.
3. Using the wrong excavator work mode. Some excavator operators may think that using the highest work mode – Heavy (H) – will help them achieve the highest productivity. However, they could achieve the same level of productivity in a lower work mode, burning half the fuel.
4. Applying the brakes too often and not using the retarder. Some articulated hauler operators may have a habit of ‘riding the brakes’. Resting a foot on the brake pedal, however lightly, means the hauler has to work harder to maintain speed and the brakes wear faster. Using the brakes to maintain a steady speed while travelling downhill, instead of the retarder, has a similar effect. Unnecessary wear to the brakes leads to unnecessary brake replacement costs.
5. Overusing the 6x6-wheel drive combination on an articulated hauler. Volvo CE says its articulated haulers feature differential locks that allow the operator to choose between 4x6 and 6x6-wheel drive combinations, depending on how much traction they need.
