Aggregates Manager Digital Magazine
Issue link: http://read.dmtmag.com/i/594078
33 AGGREGATES MANAGER November 2015 EQUIPMENT MANAGEMENT The primary factors in bucket se- lection are capacity, durability, edge configuration (spade or straight), tooth count, and ground engaging tools (GET) selection. Bucket capacity To select the right capacity bucket, consider the machine lifting and breakout capabilities, material density, and truck match. Machine capability establishes how much lifting force the machine has for the bucket and pay- load at a given reach. Material density tells you how much a bucket load would weigh at ideal conditions of 100-percent fill. There's a detail there, too — rock and stone don't always yield a 100-percent fill factor. In fact, we usually estimate 90-percent fill factors or less for shot rock. Last, but not least, is the truck match. In fact, bucket sizing actually starts with the truck in mind. Four or five passes is a nice match for a large excavator in the 75- to 100-ton size classes. Of course, there are many variables that affect the system, but if faster loading times are needed, don't overlook the impact of bucket size and configuration. That said, a bigger bucket doesn't always reduce loading time. I observed one mining operation that increased bucket size so that they could load a truck in two passes. But it took an in- sane amount of time to do it, so there was no production gain. Bucket durability As an example, Caterpillar offers buckets in four durability categories: general duty, heavy duty, severe duty, and extreme duty. The categories are differentiated by different wear pack- ages, and proper selection depends on the abrasion and impact conditions at the site. In quarry work, severe-duty and extreme-duty buckets are the common choices. Evoco Partners was established in late 2014 to help business owners successfully manage the o en complex process of acquisitions and divestitures. With over 20 years of M&A experience, including more than 10 years for one of the largest construction materials companies in the U.S., we understand what it takes to help buyers and sellers execute their growth and exit strategies. Evoco Partners is passionate about honesty, integrity, and personalized service. We act as trusted advisors and business partners to help our clients successfully meet their goals. Please contact us to discuss how we can become a valued business partner for you. Evoco Partners, LLC Closes First Transaction Contact: Nathan Green Managing Partner 979-595-6811 nathan.green@evocopartners.com Evoco Partners acted as a financial advisor to Lewis and Lewis in its sale to Summit Materials acquired by EvocoPartners_AGRM0915.indd 1 10/2/15 9:37 AM Extreme-duty buckets, such as the one on this excavator, are commonly used in quarry work, particularly if the tip life is less than 200 hours.