What Are the Safety Operation Principles for Mining Mucking Loaders?

Mining mucking loaders play a crucial role in excavation tasks, but ensuring their safe operation is vital to prevent accidents and extend their service life. Below are the key safety operation principles that must be followed:

1. Control Excavation Depth

When operating the mucking loader’s bucket, always control the excavation depth within the machine’s designed limit. The mucking loader should not be used as an excavator or crane. It is primarily intended for mucking tasks. A wheeled mucking loader should not use the bucket as a pivot to turn the front axle, as this could damage the machinery or cause tipping accidents.

2. Personnel Safety During Operations

All workers involved in tasks like clearing the ground, eliminating hazards, or other supporting roles must stay outside the mucking loader’s swing radius. Never stand under the boom or arm. If it is absolutely necessary to work within the swing radius, the operator must cut off the power supply and hydraulic system, and engage the parking brake before starting maintenance or hazard removal tasks. It is essential that crew members coordinate and ensure mutual safety during such tasks.

3. Parking on Slopes

Wheeled mucking loaders should never be parked on slopes. If the slope exceeds 10 degrees, it is recommended to use safety ropes to secure the machine.

4. Safe Operation of Crawler Mucking Loaders

When a tracked mucking loader is moving, ensure the boom is positioned forward in the direction of travel, and the bucket should not be more than 1 meter above the ground. Additionally, the rotation mechanism should be securely braked.

5. Emergency Stop on Slopes

While driving on a slope, the large bucket should make light contact with the ground. In case of an emergency, the operator must immediately apply the emergency brake with the bucket touching the ground.

6. Maintenance and Lubrication Precautions

When performing maintenance or adding lubricant, ensure the hydraulic cylinder’s stress points are supported. Clean the hydraulic fittings to prevent dust and debris from entering the system. Check seals for damage and ensure all hoses are correctly routed and secured in their original positions.

7. Turning While Driving

Avoid making sharp turns with the mucking loader. If a large turn is necessary, break it into smaller turns, each not exceeding 15°.

8. Electrical System Safety

Electrical components must be handled by qualified personnel. The diameter of the cables entering the junction box should match the hole size of the rubber gasket. Tighten the connectors to ensure there are no gaps between the rubber gasket and the cable or junction box. Before connecting to the power supply, always turn off the fuse. During operation, staff should wear pressure-resistant rubber shoes or insulated gloves and avoid cable abrasion or potential electrical leakage.

9. Maintenance During Operation

It is strictly prohibited to perform maintenance, tightening, or lubrication tasks on small mucking loaders while they are operating. If unusual sounds, odors, or excessive temperature rise occur during operation, the machine must be immediately stopped and inspected.

By adhering to these safety operation principles, the risk of accidents can be minimized, ensuring safe and efficient operation of the mucking loader. Regular maintenance and safety checks will enhance the reliability of the machine, improve operational efficiency, and ensure the safety of all personnel involved.