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How Fast Can Your Loader Work?

Posted: 10/16/2016

Productivity Challenge

Using a loader requires you to move between multiple functions: digging, lifting, and traveling. Often, you need power for these functions at the same time. Performance should be measured by how well each of these components work together. We call it machine balance. We engineer every loader to perform with each component efficiently working together. However, not every manufacturer designs machines in the same way. Kubota®, Caterpillar®, Case®, and New Holland® might perform one function well, but they struggle when it comes to components working together. Watch the test to see for yourself.

Get An Overview

Bobcat compact track loader video about a performance test.

A digging cycle is the amount of time it takes you to dig your bucket into a dirt pile, filling it with material, unload it, and finally returning it to the face. It directly determines how much material you can move in a day. For you, faster digging cycles from your machine mean more profit in your pocket.

Watch the Full Test

Bobcat compact track loader video about a performance test.

When considering digging cycles for each brand of compact track loader, a difference of a few cycles might seem insignificant. But over time, it could mean a significant difference in your productivity. Which brand of compact loader can complete the most work in a day? Watch the test results to find out.

Bobcat vs. Other Brands

An infographic shows how Bobcat testers set up the dirt pile challenge to test four loaders.

Test Setup

We placed a dirt pile about 130 ft. away from the starting point. Next, an operator drove each loader to the pile, filled the bucket, dumped the material back to the starting point and started the cycle again. This simulated the changing power demands that you encounter any time you might use a loader. We then took the average cycle time to make the comparison.

Test Results

After finding the average cycle time for each brand, we  determined how much material the loaders could move in an 8-hour day. Then we compared the results. After an 8-hour day the Bobcat loader could haul 155 more cubic yards than Kubota, 118 more yards than Caterpillar and 92 more yards than Case and New Holland. It takes a well-balanced machine to perform this task.

How We Test Equipment

Bobcat Advantage behind the scenes testing equipment video.

When you’re shopping for a new machine, it’s easy to compare specs. After all, that’s the best way to compare machines, right? Not quite. With specs, you’re only getting part of the story. They don’t measure real performance on your jobsite and that’s what matters most. It’s the reason we put top brands through the paces with fair, accurate, and repeatable tests. Watch to see how we developed the tests.

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