ForConstructionPros.com

Many factors affect the fuel efficiency of a wheel loader, including poor maintenance, worn ground-engaging tools and operator inexperience. Yet, the largest variables are ones you can typically control.

"The biggest factors in fuel efficiency are properly trained operators and machine maintenance," says Chad Ellis, product and governmental sales manager, Doosan Infracore.

Machine design is another key component. "Both the machine design and operator play important roles in fuel economy," says Jahmy Hindman, product marketing manager for wheel loaders, Deere & Company. "Poorly trained operators will cause even a good machine design to suffer poor fuel economy, and poor machine design will limit the fuel efficiency well-trained operators can attain. Operators who ride the brakes on wheel loaders cause excessive fuel burn and maintenance to the machine, for example."

Nick X. Tullo, articulated haulers and wheel loaders, Volvo Construction Equipment, adds, "The design of the loader is great, but all the design efforts are wasted if the operator does not utilize the features. I feel the operator will play the most important role."

Adjust operating practices
"Regardless of skill, any operator will benefit by a well-designed machine," asserts Tom Grill, senior application specialist for quarry and aggregate, Caterpillar. "A well-trained operator can also save a substantial amount of fuel based on his or her operating efficiency and awareness of work conditions."