A front-end loader is a universal piece of equipment designed to perform a wide range of work using interchangeable attachments. Used for loading and unloading bulk materials; warehouse and excavation work, transportation and stacking of logs, snow removal and other tasks. This special equipment is in high demand in agriculture.
The main working part of a front loader is a bucket with teeth. If necessary, it can be replaced with a gripper, brushes, forks, blade, etc. Attachment packages may vary depending on model.
LiuGong CLG855H. Heavy duty frame and boom
Photo source: liugongrussia.ru
Breakout force: 165 kN Operating weight: 16,700 kg Maximum dump height: 2,972 mm
The LiuGong 855H model is produced at a modern plant located in the Chinese city of Liuzhou, and is equipped with components from both its own production and well-known third-party brands. Thus, the machine is equipped with a Cummins 6LT9.3 T2 Tier II eco-class engine (power - 162 kW) and Parker pumps. Gearboxes and bridges - LiuGong.
Particular emphasis in the development of the loaders was placed on optimizing the geometry and increasing the strength of the frame and boom. The LiuGong 855H model is equipped with a 3 cubic meter bucket. m, load capacity - 5 tons. The operator has access to the function of auto-leveling the position of the bucket. Extended working equipment is available upon request (the unloading height in this case is 2,930 + 265 mm).
Photo source: liugongrussia.ru
Standard for the LiuGong 855H loader are a BS306E gearbox, axles with dry brakes, a constant flow hydraulic pump, and a two-spool distributor. Equipment supplied to Russia is equipped with an intake air heater and electrically heated rear window. Control is joystick.
The cabin is equipped with a mechanically adjustable seat, air conditioning, radio, adjustable steering column, and a forced ventilation function is available. The exterior features a rear wiper and sun visor. A counterweight with cement increases machine stability, and a removable cab simplifies maintenance. The license plate bracket is illuminated. Tires: bias-ply, tubeless, model 23.5-25 PR16 L-3 TT.
Rearview mirrors (electrically heated as standard), a rotating light, a reverse signal and a seat belt all contribute to increased job site safety. Additionally, you can order protection for the transmission, front glass and headlights, FOPS/ROPS safety systems, a rear view camera, four LED work lamps (installed on the cab roof), an oil bath air filter, a quick-release coupling and a three-spool distributor. A winterization package is also available.
Adjustments to the ranking compared to 2022
In 2022, the ranking includes 15 industrial vehicle manufacturers with annual sales of more than 10,000 units, 18 industrial vehicle manufacturers with annual sales of more than 5,000 units, 24 industrial vehicle manufacturers with annual sales of more than 3,000 units, and 32 industrial vehicles The manufacturer's annual sales volume exceeds 2000 units.
In this ranking, the annual sales volume of the companies with the lowest ranking on the list must be at least 100 million yuan. Sany, Kalmar, Konecranes, Terex, which are mainly engaged in the production of port equipment (including forklifts and stackers), companies such as Manitou were not included in the ranking. Mitsubishi Wujieshi Forklift (Shanghai) Co., Ltd. includes four brands: Mitsubishi, Nichiyu, TCM and Rocla. Tai Li Fu Machinery Equipment (Qingdao) Co., Ltd. was merged into Toyota Loom Co., Ltd. in 2014. Last year, Tai Li Fu and Toyota were combined to participate in the ranking. This year they are still grouped together in the rankings. Hystermax Forklift (Zhejiang) Co., Ltd. was rated alongside Hyster last year. And this year it was included in the rating separately. The above adjustments affected positions in this year's rankings. There are companies that were not included in this year's ranking due to business adjustments, and others were not included in this ranking because their sales did not meet the requirements of the chinaforklift.com website ranking or for other reasons.
Anhui Forklift Group still includes Lida sales in this ranking. Toyota - Toyota Industrial Vehicle (Shanghai) Co., Ltd., Toyota Industry (Kunshan) Co., Ltd. (including BT, Raymond) and Taiwan Life Machinery (Qingdao Total Sales) Co., Ltd. Mitsubishi includes sales of Mitsubishi Wujieshi Forklift (Shanghai) Co., Ltd., Mitsubishi Heavy Industries Forklift (Dalian) Co., Ltd. Long Equipment (Suzhou) Co., Ltd. 90% of sales of Qingdao Clark Logistics Machinery Co., Ltd. goes for export. Due to the epidemic, sales of products produced by foreign companies in China for export have declined, so some brands from other countries have also fallen in the rankings this year.
SEM655D. Performance bucket increases productivity by 10%
Photo source: www.semmachinery.com
Breakout force: 168 kN Operating weight: 17,022 kg Maximum dump height: 3,058 mm
The SEM655D loader with a lifting capacity of 5 tons is developed by Shandong Engineering Machinery, a 100% subsidiary of Caterpillar. The model is equipped with the Wheichai WD10G220E23 engine, well known in the CIS countries. The SEM TR200 transmission (multi-shaft, manually controlled and power shift) was manufactured specifically for the brand's machines by Caterpillar engineers. The number of forward and reverse gears is 4/4.
One of the main features of the machine is the Performance Series bucket (also a Caterpillar development), the design of which allows for a 10% increase in productivity. The volume of the bucket with teeth is 3 or 3.3 cubic meters, with a cutting edge - 3.1 or 3.4 cubic meters.
Another advantage of the model is its own SEM SO28 bridges, which are designed for dynamic loads of up to 28 tons. Such a high figure was made possible thanks to the use of planetary gearboxes with 4 satellites.
Photo source: www.semmachinery.com
In general, the company primarily uses units of its own production in the production of SEM655D loaders. But the design also includes components from third-party suppliers such as Parker (hydraulic hoses), Eaton (steering metering pump), Permco (hydraulic pumps) and NSK (bearings).
The standard equipment of the machine includes a 3-module cooling system with cells of increased width. The engine has a 3-piece, single-stage torque converter that is remote from the transmission and easy to service. A wide articulation unit is provided: the driveshaft is located inside, protection from external influences is provided, the center of gravity is reduced, and stability is improved. Wheelbase - 3,200 mm.
Additionally, the manufacturer offers special versions of the loader for work in forestry or agriculture, for loading light materials or rocks. It is also possible to order a machine prepared for operation in the northern regions (includes replacing all working fluids with arctic ones).
Chinese front loaders
Self-propelled loaders belong to the category of heavy wheeled special equipment. Specialized machines of this model range are widely used in agriculture, construction, mining and other industries. supplies multifunctional front loaders made in China. We offer to buy or rent both new and used equipment.
Advantages of front loaders
Unlike other analogues, when performing excavation work, loaders do not push loads in front of them, but smoothly move them above the ground at specified distances.
Pros of Chinese forklifts:
- Compact size, light weight.
- Versatility, multifunctionality, wide range of uses.
- Accuracy of loading operations.
- Reliability and structural stability thanks to the one-piece frame.
- Maneuverability.
- Compatibility of the bucket extension with dump truck bodies in height and width.
- When driving on roads, the wheels of special vehicles do not destroy asphalt, concrete and other coatings.
- Maintainability, low maintenance.
When choosing a front loader to perform specific tasks, users consider a number of factors. Of great importance is such an indicator as carrying capacity in tons. This parameter is selected depending on the materials, volumes, and weight of the cargo. The distance and height to which the load is moved are taken into account. For small construction sites, maneuverable small-sized equipment with a small turning radius is selected. If work will be carried out on difficult landscapes, swampy areas, in the mountains, etc., it is best to use used vehicles with increased cross-country ability.
John Deere WL56. Rich equipment as standard
Photo source: deere.ru
Breakout force: 169 kN Operating weight: 17,000 kg Maximum dump height: 2,940 mm
The most popular model in the line of front loaders of the American brand is the John Deere WL56. The machine is equipped with a John Deere 6068 PowerTech Plus engine, which has already proven itself in various operating conditions. The 6.8-liter power unit produces 215 “horses” at 2,200 rpm and high torque of 917 Nm. The engine's environmental class, Stage II, is relevant for regions with unstable diesel quality. The electronically controlled Common Rail fuel system is distinguished by its efficiency.
The loaders are equipped with an automatic 4-speed ZF electronic transmission with Powershift gear shift technology. Gears can be changed under load and the direction of travel can be changed even without braking. The machine is equipped with two hydraulic pumps, which ensures high hydraulic flow (up to 330 l/min), as well as fast response speed and cycle time. All equipment maintenance is performed from ground level, service points are conveniently grouped.
The WL56 models are assembled at the John Deere TEDA facility in China. In the production of the frame, steel with high strength properties is used, capable of maintaining performance characteristics over a wide temperature range: from +40°C to –38°C.
Photo source: deere.ru
Another advantage of the John Deere WL56 loaders is that they are equipped as standard with heavy-duty John Deere TeamMate IV axles with oil-cooled brakes, allowing the machine to operate longer without stopping, even in constant loading cycles. Also in the basic version, the machine is equipped with a heater, air conditioning, an additional third fuel filter and a cylinder block heater.
As an option, the loader can be equipped with a Hi-Lift boom, which increases the loading height to 3,437 mm, which is important when working in granaries or when loading dump trucks with extended sides. There is equipment for agricultural enterprises and loading wood chips in forestry.
SDLG
The company was founded in 1972. Now it is one of the most modern enterprises in China, using the latest technologies in the production of equipment.
Since 2006, SDLG has been cooperating with the famous Swedish concern Volvo. Thanks to joint work, the technological level has increased and the quality of products has improved. This attracted large investors who invested money in production.
The company considers the Russian market, along with Indian, Brazilian and Australian, to be the most promising. Therefore, manufactured special equipment must be adapted to the conditions of our country and undergo certification.
The official distributor of SDLG in Russia is .
To compare popular front loaders, let's look at several BULL and SDLG models.
Komatsu WA470-6. Originally from Japan
Photo source: istk.ru
Breakout force: 192 kN Operating weight: 22,960 kg Maximum dump height: 3,185 mm
In the line of front loaders of the Japanese manufacturer, the Komatsu WA470-6 model is in greatest demand among Russian customers. It is produced at the Awazu Plant Komatsu Ltd. in Japan. The machine is powered by an 11.04 liter Komatsu engine with high torque of 1,360 Nm at 1,400 rpm. In this case, the operator can choose one of two operating modes - “E” or “P”. The first ensures economical fuel consumption, and the “P” mode is necessary to operate at maximum engine power.
Like the power plant, the main components and assemblies of the loader, including hydraulics, frame and electrical equipment, are manufactured in Japan. The loader is equipped with an automatic transmission with the ability to select manual gear shift mode or one of two levels of automatic mode, which ensures fuel savings. The maximum speed that the car can reach is 37 km/h.
Photo source: istk.ru
Komatsu WA470-6 front loaders supplied to the Russian market comply with international standards. However, for the Russian market, the engine was adapted to local environmental requirements, and the manufacturer paid special attention to a four-stage fuel filtration system.
As standard, the loader is equipped with a hydromechanical transmission with automatic operation, a 4.2 cubic meter bucket with teeth and a segmented edge, a hydraulic fan with a radiator cleaning function, air conditioning, a cab with a built-in ROPS/FOPS structure, and the Komtrax remote monitoring system. For easier work on the loader, the basic configuration includes a “return to digging” function and an “automatic boom stop at a given height” system.
As an additional option, the manufacturer offers an Arctic package, which provides for the installation of a liquid engine pre-heater, an electric fuel filter heater and an autonomous cabin heater.
Main manufacturers
Special equipment of the BULL and SDLG brands is popular. Front loaders from these manufacturers have proven themselves well on the Russian market.
BULL
BULL equipment has been produced in China since 1993. The brand is registered in the Russian Federation - the main Russian operator for the sale of special equipment.
The brand has two certificates: ISO 9001-2011 and CE. The first confirms the compliance of the equipment produced with the ISO 9000 standard, as well as the quality of the services provided by the company and the work performed. The second indicates the product’s compliance with the standards in force in the European Economic Area. This allows us to supply special equipment to European countries.
DISD SD300. Using Doosan technology
Photo source: disd-loaders.ru
Breakout force: 160 kN Operating weight: 16,800 kg Maximum dump height: 3,215 mm
DISD SD300 loaders are manufactured at Doosan Infracore Shandong, China, and are assembled using both Korean and Chinese components. In particular, the machine is equipped with a low-speed Weichai engine with a power of 162 kW, and a choice of Doosan or Hanghi transmission is available.
Patented Doosan technologies are widely used in the design of the model. Thus, thanks to the installation of a drive axle of this brand and improved processing of the differential bevel gear, it was possible to increase the bending strength of this element by 34.6%. While the South Korean cooling system helped to significantly reduce the temperature of the hydraulic oil and engine coolant. The cabin is also made by Doosan. It has an all-round view: the point of view has been moved forward, the front field of view has increased by 25%. A standard integrated control system is provided. The working equipment is driven using joysticks. Air conditioning installed.
Photo source: disd-loaders.ru
South Korean technologies have also found application in the mechanisms of DISD SD300 gearboxes, the layout of units, adjustments and settings of fuel equipment. In turn, all seals of hydraulic cylinders and hydraulic elements in important areas are PARKER brand.
Twin pump technology has been introduced into the hydraulic system, allowing for more efficient use of power, smaller hydraulic pumps and minimal oil pressure. To increase the reliability of the design, reinforced connecting parts of the turntable and side covers of the box-shaped structure at the rear of the frame are provided. The installation of rolling bearings (instead of roller bearings) helps prevent damage to the hinge joint of the front and rear frames.
The nominal lifting capacity of the model is 5 tons, the bucket volume is 2.7–4.2 cubic meters. The loader is supplied to Russia with a low-temperature engine starting device and a battery of increased capacity. The full-lift hood provides access to all power units at the same time.
CASE 1121F. High breakout force
Photo source: www.casece.com
Breakout force: 242 kN Operating weight: 27,007 kg Maximum dump height: 4,443 mm
The CASE 1121F model, like other loaders of the brand, is produced in Italy and is equipped with an FPT (CNH Industrial) engine. This machine is equipped with a 6-cylinder diesel engine with a Common Rail electronic fuel system. The power of the power unit is 347 hp, volume - 8.7 liters, eco standard - Tier II. High torque value - 1604 Nm develops at 1100 rpm. and is maintained over a wide speed range, forming a torque plateau. Bucket capacity - 4.8 cubic meters.
Thanks to the Z-bar boom mechanism, which is already provided in the basic configuration, high breakout force is achieved when working with the bucket at ground level. Another standard option, Ride control, allows you to minimize material spillage when traveling at high speed with a loaded bucket, as well as reduce shock loads on machine components during work operations.
CASE engineers paid special attention to the cooling system. It is implemented in the form of a cube, the radiators do not overlap each other. Air intake is carried out from the cleanest part of the machine. Fan reverse is installed as standard.
Photo source: www.casece.com
CASE 1121F loaders are offered in a rich basic configuration. In addition to what has already been mentioned, a cyclone-type air pre-cleaning filter, transmission protection, 100% differential locking on the front axle, etc. are provided.
L3 tires are standard, but other options (L3–L5) can be ordered. It is also possible to install an extended boom: thanks to the increased reach, materials can be loaded into dump trucks with high sides. In turn, the additional hydraulic line will allow you to work with a wide range of attachments, and the hydraulic BSM will simplify the process of replacing it.
The cabin of this loader has a large glass area. For operator comfort, air conditioning, ergonomic controls, and radio are provided. A rear view camera is available as an additional option.
Access to the main components and daily maintenance points is provided from the ground level, all filters are grouped in one place. The hood has a large deflection angle. The standard axle oil cooling option improves brake disc and differential life and extends oil change intervals to 1,500 hours.
Let's sum it up
Loaders are a type of special equipment that is designed to move goods and work related to their loading and unloading. Loading machines differ from each other in purpose, maneuverability, engine type, gripping mechanism and load capacity. The most convenient for working in a warehouse is a forklift, but it is also divided into several types. In order to choose the appropriate equipment, study the features of the warehouse and the goods that will need to be transported. Operating a forklift is a complex process that can only be handled by a specially trained person. When choosing a forklift driver, make sure that he has all the necessary knowledge and skills not only to operate, but also to care for the equipment. Read about other warehouse equipment in our blog.