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11 Fuel Saving Tips For Heavy Equipment
Through extensive research and development, Caterpillar has discovered 11 key areas where fuel is wasted the most when operating any brand of heavy equipment. By knowing and addressing these areas, you can reduce your owning and operating costs.
1. Minimize Idling: Depending on the application, idling can amount to 15-20% of total fuel used.
2. Fuel Storage: Minimize evaporation and keep storage tanks well-shaded. Less evaporation occurs with white or aluminum painted storage tanks versus red.
3. Tire Slippage: Insufficient ballast creates excessive slippage and increases fuel consumption, along with premature engine wear. Remove ballast for light loads. Match the weight to the job for the proper rolling resistance.
4. Job Layout: Effectively plan your jobsite travel patterns to reduce idling and minimize turns.
5. Recommended Fuel Grade: Be sure to use the recommended fuel grade depending on weather conditions.
6. Faulty Fuel Caps: Damaged or loose fuel caps can cause fuel evaporation.
7. Size Machine for Job: Too much or too little horsepower can drastically affect fuel efficiency. Our goal at Empire is to help you match the right machine to your next jobsite.
8. Gear Up - Throttle Down: Select the gear that provides the desired ground speed at a reduced engine rpm without overloading. Studies have shown 5 -15% fuel efficiency at 75% power and 15 – 30% efficiency at 50% power.
9. Maintain Proper Tire Inflation: Under-inflation by just 6 psi consumes 3% more fuel.
10. Avoid Quick Starts: Make sure all operators are properly trained on each machine because it plays a big factor in fuel economy.
11. Keep Machine In Top Condition: Diligent maintenance not only saves fuel, but reduces repairs, improves reliability, and minimizes exhaust emissions. Replace air filters, oil filters, and change oil (using recommended oils) per manufacturer’s recommendations. Blocked air filters can increase fuel consumption by 20%. One stuck valve lifter can increase fuel usage by 10 -15%. Improperly working thermostats have been noted to increase fuel consumption by 25%. Throttle linkage needs to be kept properly adjusted. Other culprits affecting fuel economy include: valve and ring wear, engine liming, water in fuel, and external leakage.
MANAGE EQUIPMENT WITH EMPIRE
Monitoring your equipment allows you to correct issues before you even know there is a problem. We're ready and equipped to provide the support and technology you need to easily manage your equipment so it delivers the maximum value at the lowest possible operating costs.
If you need additional support to keep your machines running right, our team and our tools can help.
