Volvo wheel loaders are renowned for being long-lasting, accurate, and comfortable for operators. These machines, which include powerful versions like the Volvo L220H that set industry standards, are essential to mining, quarrying, and construction activities all over the globe. However, improper operation or maintenance may result in needless wear and downtime on even the most durable equipment.
You can prolong the life of your investment, boost worksite productivity, and enhance crew safety by being aware of frequent wheel loader faults and knowing how to prevent them. Here is a summary of the main mistakes to avoid while using a Volvo wheel loader, regardless of your level of experience.
1. Not Paying Attention To The Manufacturer’s Specifications
Ignoring the technical instructions that come with each equipment is one of the most frequent errors. Each loader has unique operating characteristics, size restrictions, and capacities. For example, the Volvo 220H loader has an operating weight of over 70,000 lbs and a maximum tipping load of about 40,000 lbs. Excessive usage of the loader may result in accidents, premature wear, or structural damage.
2. Ignoring Inspections Before Operation
Despite their seeming monotony, daily inspections are essential for spotting little faults before they become more serious and expensive. One of the simplest ways to have unplanned breakdowns is to neglect this practice.
Steer clear of it: be a visual and functional inspection checklist, and be sure to check the brakes, lights, hoses, warning systems, hydraulic fluid levels, and tire pressure. Ensuring that Load Assist and other intelligent features operate as intended is equally crucial for devices such as the L220H.
3. Abuse of Attachments
With so many attachments available, Volvo loaders are very adaptable. However, improper or inappropriate use of the attachment might cause machine damage and decrease productivity.
Steer clear of it: Select attachments made especially for your job and model. For information on compatibility and safe operating restrictions, refer to the Volvo 220H loader specifications. Make sure that personnel are properly taught to swap and utilize attachments at all times.
4. Ineffective Bucket Methods
Ineffective or improper bucket usage may result in high fuel consumption, hydraulic system wear, and reduced output. Over scooping, lifting at the incorrect angle, and using the bucket to bulldoze rather than scoop are common errors.
Steer clear of it: Teach operators how to handle buckets properly. Avoid dragging the bucket and maintain ideal angles during loading and unloading to avoid damaging the ground and putting strain on the loader.
5. Neglecting Adequate Tire Maintenance
One of the most costly parts of a wheel loader is the tire. Their lifetime may be significantly shortened and loader stability impacted by improper inflation, misalignment, or operating over uneven ground.
Steer clear of it: Check tire pressure every day, particularly for bigger, heavy-duty equipment like the L220H. When tread wear becomes uneven or extreme, replace the tires and rotate and align them as necessary.
6. Insufficient Instruction For Operators
Intelligent features like Co-Pilot displays, fuel efficiency monitors, and load assist are included on more recent versions like the Volvo L220H. Operators may disregard useful data or perform inefficiently if they are not well taught to utilize these technologies.
Steer clear of it by funding ongoing operator training. Ensure that everyone using the loader knows how to use the integrated technology to increase safety and productivity, in addition to how to drive it.
7. Ignoring Maintenance Schedules
To maintain any equipment in optimal condition, regular maintenance is necessary. Due to hectic schedules or financial worries, many operators put off maintenance, yet this short-term choice often results in long-term expenses.
Steer clear of it: Follow the owner’s manual’s suggested maintenance routine. Maintain track of inspections, filter replacements, and oil changes. It is impossible to compromise on proactive maintenance for high-performing equipment with complex systems, such as the L220H.
Conclusion
The L220H and other Volvo wheel loaders are designed to provide strength, accuracy, and enduring dependability. However, in order to maximize their benefits, it is essential to steer clear of avoidable errors that may result in mechanical problems or downtime. Contractors and fleet managers may guarantee safer, more efficient operations by comprehending and adhering to important elements, including Volvo 220H loader standards, operator training, and periodic maintenance.
Time and dependability are crucial in the building industry. The difference between project delays and worksite excellence may be determined by a well-maintained Volvo loader and a knowledgeable crew.
