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Loader (equipment)

technology Maturity 11-13 Next article →

A loader is a heavy machine used in construction.

Front end loader 2
Front end loader 2

It helps move materials like soil, sand, or rocks. Most loaders have a wide bucket on the front. This bucket is held by two long arms called booms. The machine scoops up loose material from the ground. Then, it moves the load into a dump truck.

Loader dumping salt into salt spreader
Loader dumping salt into salt spreader

There are many different types of loaders. Some use rubber wheels to move fast on roads. Others use tracks to move through soft mud.

Knick-Radlader VOLVO L60H
Knick-Radlader VOLVO L60H

Many large loaders use articulated steering. This means the machine has a pivot point in the middle. It bends in the center to turn easily. This helps the machine move in tight spaces.

Loaders can also use different tools instead of buckets. Some use forks to lift heavy pallets. Others use a grappler to hold large bales of hay. Even small loaders can be very helpful. They can clear snow from sidewalks or parking lots. They help people build roads and move building materials.

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🖼️ Images & Media (28)
File:Swingmaster 181TC Swingloader.JPG
Swingmaster 181TC Swingloader.JPG
File:Knick-Radlader VOLVO L60H.jpg
Knick-Radlader VOLVO L60H.jpg
File:Loader dumping salt into salt spreader.jpg
Loader dumping salt into salt spreader.jpg
File:Farmer with T5070 Tractor in Malans.jpg
Farmer with T5070 Tractor in Malans.jpg
File:Building Fairs Brno 2011 (034).jpg
Building Fairs Brno 2011 (034).jpg
File:Front end loader 2.jpg
Front end loader 2.jpg
File:UNIMOG excavator.JPEG
UNIMOG excavator.JPEG
File:Front end loader grappler.jpg
Front end loader grappler.jpg
File:Caterpillar 930G Front View.jpg
Caterpillar 930G Front View.jpg
File:Caterpillar 930G Side View.jpg
Caterpillar 930G Side View.jpg
File:Traction chains on a wheel loader - cropped.jpg
Traction chains on a wheel loader - cropped.jpg
File:2025-03-18 134123 S90 0002 I w248.jpg
2025-03-18 134123 S90 0002 I w248.jpg

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