Considering the wide variety of earthmoving equipment available today, many people often ask about the benefits of having an on-site posi-track. So, here’s what you need to know about posi-track loaders.
What is a posi track?
A posi-track is a piece of earthmoving equipment used in all types of construction, mining and other industries. The most notable feature of a posi-track is that it moves on tracks rather than wheels. It works differently from an excavator, in the sense that the bucket is a lot wider. With that being said, however, you can use several different attachments on a posi-track in the same way that you can with many pieces of heavy earthmoving equipment.
A posi-track lacks a certain manoeuvrability that’s found on wheeled skid-steer loaders and excavators, and due to its design can only move 200 degrees left and right, which is different from an excavator that can move 360 degrees. However, they do excel on uneven, soft or wet terrain where wheeled loaders can’t work as effectively. They are still great for many applications, including:
· Digging or levelling uneven ground
· Excavating on wet terrain
· Ripping out larger, heavier rocks or concrete debris
· Working on sloped surfaces
· Compacting layers of aggregate
What a posi-track lacks in manoeuvrability, it makes up for with its ability to operate in difficult terrain.
How is a posi track different to a wheeled skid steer?
Both posi-tracks and wheeled skid steers are types of loaders. They’re also known in some parts of the world as bobcats, however, this is actually a brand. It’s important to note that posi-tracks and wheeled skid steers are not the same as excavators, but all are earthmoving equipment.
The major difference between a posi-track and a wheeled skid steer is how easily it moves in certain situations. As mentioned above, a pos-track is excellent in wet, uneven or sloped terrain, whereas a wheeled loader has better manoeuvrability in tight spaces. They both effectively perform the same task, but one is on wheels and the other is on tracks.
You’ll also likely notice that wheeled skid steers have a deeper digging capacity because the whole machine can tilt and move more easily than a tracked machine. With that in mind, though, posi-tracks are bigger, heavier and can be capable of more heavy-duty work. This is why they’re usually used more frequently on larger construction sites where there is plenty of room to move around.
The benefits of a posi-track
There are certain reasons you could choose a posi-track over other types of earthmoving equipment, and basically, it boils down to the type of job you’re doing and the type of terrain you’re working on. Naturally, if you need to work in tight spaces, a posi-track may not be the best option. But for anything involving uneven or difficult terrain, you’ll be thankful you’ve got a posi-track on site.
Here are just some of the benefits of a posi-track.
Terrific on soft or sandy terrain
On larger work sites, particularly in civil construction, posi-track loaders are quite common. This is because the terrain is often soft or sandy, and wheeled machines tend to get bogged. Because the posi-track rolls on tracks rather than wheels, it’s much easier to use when the surface you’re working on is soft.
Wet areas
If you need to prepare a site that’s waterlogged, swampy, or just plain slippery and difficult to get through, the tracked operation of a posi-track is going to be your saviour once again. Posi-tracks are designed to handle damp terrain, meaning you’ll be able to reach places that a wheeled machine simply can’t.
This is one of the reasons you need to have one on-site at all times. If there’s overnight rain, it can be difficult to get working the next day if you only have wheeled earthmoving equipment. A posi-track lets you get straight to work even if the ground is wet.
Additional power
When talking about earthmoving equipment, power and torque are important factors. Wheeled skid-steer loaders often don’t have the power of a posi-track, mainly because the posi-track is more stable on the ground. They’re also usually larger than skid-steer loaders, and while this is a negative for manoeuvrability, it’s a bonus when it comes to doing the heavy work.
It should still be noted, however, that with the rise of mini-excavators and everything they’re capable of, posi-tracks are not always the preferred option. Still, if you want a machine that can work hard in a wider variety of conditions, posi-tracks are always a great option.
Looking for quality posi-track hire?
Solution Plant Hire is your one-stop shop for all your earthmoving needs. If you’re looking for a posi-track hire service you can rely on, look no further than SPH. With flexible lease arrangements and a huge range of equipment available, including any attachments you need, there’s simply no reason to look anywhere else. To discuss your plant and equipment hire needs, contact Solution Plant Hire today and find out how we can help make your next project a success.