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    1. Earthmoving

    How to Safely Operate an Articulated Dump Truck

    May 14, 2024
    Review these 9 steps to ensure safe operation of an articulated haul truck.
    Rokbak
    Know the ADT's capacity and its working limits with regard to payload.
    Know the ADT's capacity and its working limits with regard to payload.

    Articulated dump trucks carry loads across rough, often muddy terrain that can pose problems for stability. The articulation of ADTs causes these haul trucks to function differently than straight-frame haulers.

    An efficient articulated hauler operator combines technical expertise, safety, and situational awareness with effective communication and a commitment to productivity, according to Rokbak, which list nine areas that enable safe operation of the machines.

    Before operating an ADT

    Rokbak
    Check tire conditions before operating an articulated dump truck.
    Check tire conditions before operating an articulated dump truck.

    Know the truck. It’s important to have a thorough understanding of the truck’s controls, capabilities, and limitations. This includes knowing how to operate it efficiently and safely in various conditions, such as on gradients, rough terrain, or in adverse weather.

    Pre-operating inspection  

    At the start of the working day, prestart checks are essential, including routine truck inspections to make sure the truck is ready for work. Check for pre-existing damage. Identify leaks and loose parts, check tire conditions, check that lights are fully operational, ensure full visibility through the windows, and check fluid and battery levels daily. A thorough equipment walkaround before starting a shift can make a big difference, and it doesn’t require a lot of time.

    Know the job site

    Before operating the haul truck, learn job site boundaries such as speed, ground bearing weight limits, travel direction, passing areas, width and height restrictions, and no-go areas. Know the ADT’s capacity and its working limits with regard to payload. Keep an eye on how many buckets the loader is dumping in the truck to stay within the safe operating limits of the ADT and avoid accelerated component wear through overloading. 

    Looking for more on ADTs?

    Safe operation

    Follow all site operating procedures when operating the ADT. Keep under speed and under control on gradients and check grade guides for safe and controlled descent speed. Correctly use differential locks, for example, when operating in soft or slippery ground conditions to maintain traction and control. Be aware of what equipment is on the haul route and what sort of traffic can be expected.

    Understand operating features

    Many articulated haulers have multi-disc brakes on all six wheels plus a retarder. Understand the correct use of the retarder so to prolong the life of the service brakes and reduce maintenance intervals for lower total cost of ownership (TCO). If required, make use of the transmission lock in range or manual shift modes to maintain a steady ascent or descent on gradients. 

    Stay alert

    Be aware of surroundings, including other workers, vehicles, and obstacles on site. Anticipate potential hazards and adapt accordingly to maintain safety for the truck and other workers. An alert operator can quickly assess situations, make informed decisions, and take appropriate action to resolve issues while minimizing downtime. Never operate an articulated hauler if feeling fatigued or unwell.

    Keep an eye on targets

    Pay attention to ensure proper loading, unloading, and maneuvering of materials. Although an integrated payload system can account for the number of loads moved, manually recording progress in relation to a target keeps productivity proceeding on schedule. For improved fuel efficiency, minimize heavy acceleration and aim to reduce unnecessary idle time whenever feasible.

    Don’t ignore fault codes

    Fault codes deliver critical information. Faults should be reported when they occur as continuing operating could exacerbate the issue. Following the truck’s advice means increasing uptime by avoiding potential disruptions, and effective communication with site supervisors, co-workers, and other equipment operators is crucial for coordinating tasks and ensuring smooth operations.

    Shut down 

    At the end of a shift, follow the correct shutdown procedure. Allowing the truck to idle for a brief period at the end of a long workday enables the coolant to circulate through the engine. This helps to gradually lower the temperature, preventing potential damage from frequent hot shutdowns over time. Adhering to the correct maintenance and start-up and shutdown procedures will help to keep operation costs low.