In any pit-type operation the loader is the key (major role) machine in determine the rate of production. To ensure that this machine is worked continuously and efficiently the following points should be observed :
(1) Although most loaders are extremely manoeuvrable and can load under awkward conditions, the best production is obtained if the angle of turn and walking distance is
kept to a minimum.
(2) Ensure the loader operator keeps the floor of the excavation clean and level.
(3) Provide a near vertical face on a stockpile to assist loading efficiency. If possible the operator should have his back to the wind.
(4) Most loader-digging is done with the bucket flat or tilted to a slight downward angle. This position gives maximum penetration into banks and high spots, and cuts a smooth path for the loader’s tracks or wheels. The flat position is bets for pushing up a quantity of loose material, but the bucket should be turned down steeply for spreading and grading so that the material will flow freely from the bucket.
(5) For normal soils, the method is to force the bucket into the toe of the bank and then lift. It is often desirable to crowd the filled bucket against the upper part of the bank to break up the material so that it will slide down to the where it can be picked up easily on the next pass.