Aggregates Manager Digital Magazine
Issue link: https://read.dmtmag.com/i/124173
Proper engine oil type and maintenance interval is more important on Tier 4 machines. Tracking Large Excavator Maintenance O Remembering the basics adds to the life of high-volume excavators. by Rob Marringa 30 ver the past decade, the aggregates industry reached the realization that bigger is better when it comes to excavators. In this high-volume, low-margin business, a machine that can handle a bucket capable of digging up tons of raw material brings considerable advantages, with its ability to move aggregate to into the process and eventually to market. Production and reliability go hand in hand and this is certainly true when it comes to these machines weighing in at 70 tons or more. Yet 10-hour days, high duty-cycles, and unforgiving terrain can threaten the uptime of these massive and invaluable machines. Downtime simply isn't an option since the rest of the operation typically depends on these excavators to keep production flowing. Given the important role excavators play at virtually every operation, there is no better time than now to freshen up on basic maintenance for highvolume excavators. Here are eight tips to ensure excavators operate at peak efficiency and achieve maximum uptime. 1.Use high-grade oil. Maintaining proper oil change intervals per the manufacturer's recommendation is basic to excavator performance and life. In the demanding aggregates environment, engine oils, particularly those with additives, can break down under high duty-cycle. The newer Tier 4 engines with exhaust gas recirculation and anti-pollution equipment require highergrade oils. Engine oil is no place to save money. The AGGREGATES MANAGER May 2013 EM_AGRM0513.indd 30 4/18/13 2:13 PM