Drive by any demolition site and you'll likely witness to a multitude of devices and gear, one of the most famous being the skid steer loader. Read on to understand more about the skid steer loader, what it is generally used for, and why it's widely acknowledged as one of the most versatile and flexible equipment parts that you'll find in a job area.
What is a Skid Steer Loader?
A skid steer loader is a compact, multi-purpose vehicle devised to help with construction and demolition positions. Also known as all-terrain loaders or Bobcats, skid steers can adjust many attachments to perform a combination of tasks, making them a flexible and versatile equipment choice.
What are Skid Steers Used for?
Perhaps the better query is "What aren't skid steers used for?" These adaptable vehicles are commonplace in construction and demolition zones, but they can be used for so much more than that. Here's a summary of some of their most popular use issues.
Demolition
Skid steers can be outfitted with mixed attachments to perform different demolition-associated duties. They're often used to help aid the demolition process in clearing floors and walls from a structure or they can be equipped with an attachment to help collect debris.
Roadwork
From spreading gravel to repairing drainage, skid steers are typically used in road repair and paving.
Snow / Debris Removal
Skid steers can help empty snow from roads and parking lots in fast order when equipped with the right attachment. They're also excellent for gathering debris for removal.
Excavating
Skid steers can be provisioned with rippers, trenchers, tillers, and wheel saws that make excavation much more suitable. Because of this, they're often employed when prepping a site or when creating a basis.
Loading
Need to carry heavy equipment from one place to the next? Skid steers are excellent for loading and moving materials around a zone.
Landscaping
Many landscapers operate skid steers for loading and hauling vegetation for planting around the zone. They can also assist with trench digging and stump grinding with the proper attachments.
Farming
Farms rely on a combination of heavy-duty equipment for crop growing and harvesting. A skid steer is a common supplement on the farm due to many of the functions that we've already mentioned on this list.
Material Handling
While most people associate skid steers doing work outdoors, they also have a business in the industrial warehouse - particularly when it comes to material handling. Thanks to their capability to navigate tight spaces and attachment versatility, they're an excellent accessory.
Common Skid Steer Attachments & Tasks
One of the components that makes a skid steer such a versatile selection of equipment in a variety of settings is the number of attachments it's capable of accommodating.
Attachments for Moving Material
Buckets and dozer blades are some of the most standard skid steer attachments. They're obtainable in various sizes and can help move and carrier material.
Attachments for Digging
In addition to buckets, other attachments can assist with digging. Some of these include trenchers and backhoes.
Attachments for Farming
From bale spears to tillers to rakes, skid steers can adjust several extensions for farming.
Attachments for Clearing
Tree pullers, stump grinders, forks, and brush cutters are all perfect skid steer attachments for land clearing.
Attachments for Grabbing
Skid steer attachments for grabbing have the grapple bucket attachment and the puller.
What are the Different Types of Skid Steers?
Skid steers come in various sizes and styles, making it easy to purchase the best one for your job zone or project. Here's a closer look at the various types of skid steers.
Wheeled vs Tracked
One of the most significant decisions you'll need to make is regarding a tracked or wheeled skid steer. Wheeled skid steers are most suitable for flat, hard surfaces. They tend to run faster and are more relaxed. Tracked skid steers are more acceptable for uneven terrain and conditions that could be soft or slippery.
There are also over-the-tire skid steers, which incorporate the best features of both wheeled and tracked skid steers.
Stand On vs Walk Behind
Another key difference in skid steers is how you utilize them. Some skid steers have a cabin and operators sit or stand within the cabin zone. Other skid steers require the operator to walk behind them.
Small Skid Steers
Skid steers also come in various sizes. Small skid steers are best for smaller job zones. They tend to be ultra-compact with the capability to fit in tight spaces. For example, you're likely to find smaller skid steers in industrial warehouses.
Medium Steers
Medium skid steers are larger and more effective, making them an ideal equipment choice for many larger job zones. Medium skid steers tend to be the most typical type of skid steer. Much of this is due to their versatility and their capability to be used in a variety of different types of assignments.
Large Frame Steers
Ultimately, there are large-frame skid steers, which tend to be excellent for large job sites where productivity is critical. For instance, you'll likely see farmers with large skid steers because they're able to tend to more of their belongings at once. Skid steers for snow removal are also likely to be big frame models, thereby permitting them to clear out more snow faster. Land clearing is another standard application for large skid steers.