So, what sort of project needs to be completed? Does the project need to level a large construction site? Or does it need to level the surface for a roadway? Or does it simply want the heavy equipment to work on the farm? If such tasks need to be completed with ease, then a motor grader is the perfect choice. This heavy equipment comes with a long blade that can be adjusted to suit specific needs. It helps create flat surfaces. It can also be used to move and spread heavy weight such as dirt or soil. It helps remove rocks and debris. It may also use this equipment to remove snow.
This blog will delve into the details of the different types of motor graders so that companies can make the right choice for their projects.
Deciding between the different frames
When it comes to motor graders, there are two types of frames. Here is a brief overview of these two different types.
Rigid frame
This type of motor grader is regarded as the standard grader for undertaking tasks that do not mandate precise maneuvering. This means the contractor can use this equipment on farms and construction sites. They come with a single axle that is fixed. It has a long rectangular frame with six wheels attached to it. Four of these wheels are under the rear and cab while the remaining two are found in the front. The blade in this motor grader is attached behind the front wheels.
Articulated frame
This sort of motor grader is best suited for large jobs that need to be completed with maneuverability and precise turning. This applies to tasks, such as removing snow or constructing and maintaining curved roads. It comes to use in grading and maintaining gravel roads. There are two axles that have been hitched by pivot pins that lie between the cab and front wheels. This setup allows for the operator to easily operate the motor grader and position the front frame and its blade in line with the back frame. This makes it possible to operate the grader in less spacious places like urban settings that have confined spaces.
Sizes
Motor graders come in different sizes. There are many trusted brands that manufacture this heavy equipment, such as John Deere, Komatsu, and Volvo. These brands offer the best motor graders for contractors and companies looking forward to working on building and maintaining roads. The small graders are known to move with ease in tight spaces but it is important to note that they may require more time to complete tasks. On the other hand, the large graders come with larger wheels and wider blades that finish the job in only a few passes. However, it is difficult to maneuver the large-sized grader. This is especially true when the heavy equipment needs to operate in confined spaces. They also come with hydraulic attachments and would need to consume more fuel.
To select the right-sized grader, first look at what sort of application is needed. This is because the sort of application required would determine the size.
Small graders come with horsepower of 80-150. These are best for construction jobs and landscaping projects. They can perform tasks like leveling and grading graders or lawns. The medium-sized grader comes with 150 to 300 horsepower. This size of grader is suited for performing jobs on highways. They may be sued for constructing roads.
The large-sized motor grader comes with a horsepower of more than 300 and is mostly utilized in residential and commercial settings. They are also used in mining operations. However, these are heavy equipment and weigh up to 160,000 pounds; the blades that come with such graders could be as wide as 24 feet.
Other factors that should influence the decision
After deciding the right frame and size, it needs to be determined as to what the best blade size should be. The company also needs to know if they require 4-wheel drive and what sort of tires are required. The company may also want to look at the technology that will help complete their project.
Blade
Starting with the blade, the grader blades also known as moldboards range in length from 12 feet to 24 feet. They may also range from 6 inches to 10 inches in height. The blade is made up of different materials, such as steel, carbon, and carbide. These blades also come in different shapes. They may be curved or serrated. It is worth noting that the bigger blade tends to add weight which may sort of impede the drivetrain and frame if it is used on a small grader. So, decide carefully.
Drive system
These graders may be all-wheel drive systems or rear tandem drive. Wheel-drive grader comes in use if the project involves working in mud, snow, or sand. Such motor graders offer greater traction and maneuverability.
Tires
The tires of a motor grader are important as they have the capacity to impact traction and the operator’s comfort. Radial tires have the feature of neutralizing the impact of rocks. The bias tires are stiffer while deeper treads will offer greater traction, however, the grader may leave marks. If the project requires finishing grading then opting for a smoother tread would be a better choice.
Technology
The modern graders come with different technology features. These features serve to boost the safety of the heavy equipment and also help complete projects on time. These include automatic articulation and automatic speed controls. Other features are steering and diagnostic data collection. There are also preset buttons available that help control blade movement. Companies must make sure the motor grader they select has the right technological features available to help with the project.
Last word
Motor graders are meant to build and resurface roads. They also offer leveling and grading of land in construction projects. By making the differences clearer, companies can easily select the right type of grader that suits their needs. This way they can make the most out of the grader and boost productivity.
