3 Considerations When Buying an Articulated Dump Truck
Many construction firms make the mistake of working on off-road projects with regular rigid dump trucks. As a result, their workers find it difficult to manoeuvre and haul loads across rugged terrain and tight corners. These jobs typically require equipment specifically designed for these conditions: articulated dump trucks (ADTs).
What Are Articulated Dump Trucks?
Like rigid dump trucks, ADTs are built for heavy hauling jobs. However, ADTs have an articulated chassis that allows the truck’s cab to turn first, followed by the section with the dump bed. This enables drivers to make sharp turns that rigid dump trucks are not capable of.
There are many benefits to using articulated dump trucks. ADTs provide operators with enhanced manoeuvrability, flexibility, comfort, and safety features that work well with off-road environments. They’re versatile machines that can operate in various working conditions and terrain.
Things to Consider When Buying an Articulated Dump Truck
An ADT is an undeniably powerful and versatile machine, but buying this construction machinery requires a significant investment. With this, here are some things to consider before you make a purchase:
1 – Your Construction Needs
Because heavy equipment will always be an investment, it’s best to assess your firm’s needs before making a purchase. Evaluate the type of construction jobs your firm does, what materials need to be moved, what types of loading machines you use, and how far you’ll be hauling the materials. These aspects will determine the type of ADT specifications your company will require.
A helpful tip in assessing the construction firm’s needs would be to look back at past projects. However, it’s also helpful to evaluate future uses for the ADT you’ll be purchasing.
2 – Machine Specifications
After evaluating the construction company’s needs, it’s crucial to ensure the ADT’s machine specifications match the project requirements. Most distributors will disclose the equipment’s specs in great detail, so it’s best to take note of aspects like payload capacity and production per man-hour. Fuel efficiency and travel speeds are also essential in getting the most of your machinery for less.
3 – Safety and Comfort Features
Aside from how well the articulated dump truck will suit the construction firm’s needs, it’s also crucial to evaluate the safety and comfort features of the heavy equipment. Many modern ADT designs have ergonomics in mind to keep the drivers safe and comfortable.
It’s advisable to check if the controls and instruments within the cab provide ease of use for the operators. Power steering, suspension, heat, air conditioning, and large windows are also great for improving the workers’ comfort and performance.
Safety features include equal weight distribution, stability, sloping rear frames, and large rear-view mirrors. These aspects will help protect your workers, equipment, and other assets throughout your projects.
Buy Used Construction Equipment from Reputable Dealers
Articulated dump trucks are powerful machines that can work in many different conditions and terrain. These versatile pieces of equipment offer many advantages, such as greater manoeuvrability, flexibility, and safety for open and confined spaces. When choosing the right ADT for your construction firm, it’s always best to keep the aspects above in mind to make the most of your purchase.
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