When choosing an articulated dump truck (ADT), the important consideration is finding a hauler right-sized for your excavator or wheel loader. Right-sizing means that your fleet of equipment works together as efficiently as possible. You want to maximize the amount of material your ADT can move. You also want to reduce the number of trips you need to make and conserve fuel.
When shopping for an ADT, the general rule of thumb is that you want a truck with a capacity large enough that an excavator or wheel loader can fill the truck to near-maximum capacity after four to six even passes. To determine passes needed to fill an ADT, calculate the average bucket fill of the loading machine based on the material it is transporting.
You then multiply that fill percentage by the rated bucket capacity. This will give you an idea of the amount of material moved in each pass. Compare this figure to the rated load capacity of the ADT. Then you will be able to determine how many passes it will take to fill the truck.
Other Factors When Right-Sizing an Articulated Dump Truck
1. Physical Dimensions of Loading Equipment
The physical dimensions of the machine loading the ADT is another important consideration.
When using an excavator, the arm should be long enough for the operator to be able to load the entire ADT box without repositioning the excavator.
For a wheel loader, consider the dump height of the wheel loader in a scenario as close to actual use as possible. You want the operator to be able to easily clear the side of the ADT without having to make time-wasting adjustments. The width of the wheel loader bucket is also a factor. Too wide a bucket could be difficult for the operator to maneuver when filling the entire ADT box.
2. Jobsite Limitations
The most technical part of choosing an ADT may be determining the limitations of your haul roads. Rolling resistance is affected by several factors including the truck’s weight. Speak with your equipment dealer for guidance on what size truck your Jobsite can accommodate.
Another factor to consider in choosing an ADT size is the dimensions of your jobsite. Consider obstacles the ADT would need to pass under or navigate around.
Source: Doosan
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