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"all_tags": "agricultureaustraliabreakout forcecapacityconstructionconstruction equipmentdigital marketingearthmoving equipmentearthworksefficiencyexcavatorfarmingfarming equipmentgradingheavy equipmenthydraulicsinspectionlandscapinglandscaping businesslicensemaintenancemaking moneymanagementmanual labourmanufacturingmarketingmental healthoperationplanningproductivitypurchasing equipmentrated operatingregistrationrunning costssafetyskid steerskid steer bucketssmall businesstelehandlerstime managementtipstractorwheel loaderswinter",
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"tags": [
"agriculture",
"australia",
"breakout force",
"capacity",
"construction",
"construction equipment",
"digital marketing",
"earthmoving equipment",
"earthworks",
"efficiency",
"excavator",
"farming",
"farming equipment",
"grading",
"heavy equipment",
"hydraulics",
"inspection",
"landscaping",
"landscaping business",
"license",
"maintenance",
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"management",
"manual labour",
"manufacturing",
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"operation",
"planning",
"productivity",
"purchasing equipment",
"rated operating",
"registration",
"running costs",
"safety",
"skid steer",
"skid steer buckets",
"small business",
"telehandlers",
"time management",
"tips",
"tractor",
"wheel loaders",
"winter"
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"title": "The Himac Herald",
"url": "/blogs/the-himac-herald",
"description": "<p>Whether you're into earthmoving or agriculture, Himac publish regular handy hints and machinery information in '<strong>The Himac Herald</strong>'.</p>",
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"author": "Simon Blackburn",
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"content": "<p>If you work on a construction or agricultural site, you’ll be well aware of the technical terminology surrounding earthmoving machinery, attachments, power, and capabilities.</p>
<p>One mentioned a lot is breakout force. Breakout force has nothing to do with a mass exodus from a jail!</p>
<p>Skid steer loaders are designed to make light work of any project and are renowned for manoeuvrability and versatility. They are compact, hardwearing, and safe but can give you all the power you need.</p>
<p>Breakout force is the maximum amount of weight supported by your machine to curl and lift a load. It’s the kilogram-force (kgf) or kilo newtons (kN) of power exerted by a machine as that movement happens - the maximum amount of upward force using its hydraulic circuits combined.</p>
<h4 class="hr-2">Why is it important?</h4>
<p>Breakout force is significant for earthwork projects and digging into soil, rock, or concrete because it’s the power a skid steer machine generates as the boom lifts and the bucket curls towards the cab.</p>
<p>It is the force that the tip / edge of the bucket exerts on the material you are loading. It is affected by geometry, bucket size, applied hydraulic pressure and the linkage tilting the bucket. The degree of tilt and rollback on the bucket will raise or lower the breakout force as the lever length will change – either decreasing or increasing.</p>
<p>A higher breakout force number on a skid steer indicates better performance, digging and lifting capabilities. It usually applies to a powerful machine.</p>
<h4>How is breakout force established?</h4>
<p>The manufacturer of the machine calculates the breakout force of the skid steer using mathematics and geometry principles. Breakout force by a manufacturer is calculated using a general-purpose bucket attached to the skid steer machine.</p>
<p>There are many factors influencing breakout force - such as the size of a hydraulic cylinder, where it connects, its angle, hydraulic pressure applied to the cylinder, and distance between pins.</p>
<p>A machine with a higher breakout will perform better in tougher terrain with digging jobs and are generally larger bulkier machines. If you apply too much breakout force, there’s the potential to damage the machine and your hydraulic houses, buckets, arm boom and rams.</p>
<h4>Breakout force and directional loads</h4>
<p>Breakout force is unrelated to the boom lift system but is similar to a radial skid steer loader or a vertical skid steer one.</p>
<p>Radial lifts are ideal for excavating, grading and digging, whereas vertical lift systems are better for warehouse work and lifting pallets.</p>
<h4 class="hr-2">Talk to the experts</h4>
<p>At Himac, we know skid steer attachments, particularly their capabilities to shift rocks, debris, and other heavy loads. They’re the hard grafters when it comes to your earthmoving needs.</p>
<p>For all your <a href="/pages/skid-steer-attachments" title="Skid Steer attachments by Himac">skid steer attachment</a> queries, contact Himac Attachments. A family owned and operated company based in Albany and established in 2005, our stock is manufactured in WA. Look at our customer reviews, and you’ll understand why we’re the first choice for your earthmoving machine attachments.</p>
<p><a href="/pages/contact" title="Contact Himac Attachments">Contact us online</a> or call us today on <a href="tel:1800888114" title="Talk to the team at Himac Attachments">1800 888 114</a>.</p>",
"created_at": "2021-12-15 09:32:45 +0800",
"excerpt": "You may be well aware of the terminology surrounding earthmoving machinery. One mentioned a lot is breakout force - read this article for a detailed explanation.",
"excerpt_or_content": "You may be well aware of the terminology surrounding earthmoving machinery. One mentioned a lot is breakout force - read this article for a detailed explanation.",
"handle": "the-himac-herald/what-is-breakout-force-on-a-skid-steer",
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"published_at": "2021-10-13 10:00:00 +0800",
"tags": [
"breakout force",
"capacity",
"construction equipment",
"earthmoving equipment",
"earthworks",
"operation",
"skid steer"
],
"title": "What Is Breakout Force on a Skid Steer?",
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"content": "<p>It’s been nearly sixty years since the invention of the skid steer. Today's machines have higher capacity, faster speeds, and longer wheelbases. Skid steers now have improved lifting capabilities, as well as being able to travel up to 16 km/h.</p>
<p>Skid steers are workhorses with the power to lift heavy loads – even the average compact skid steer can lift an impressive 860 kg.</p>
<p>But with any machine, there is a safe limit to what skid steers can lift. Manufacturers are obliged to offer lift capacity information on each machine.</p>
<h4 class="hr-2">Calculating rated capacity</h4>
<p>Rated operating capacity (ROC) is the maximum weight the skid steer can lift when the machine is at its weakest possible configuration.</p>
<p>It’s a stability measurement and defined is what is considered safe in normal conditions. A tipping load is the amount of weight that would lift the rear tires or tread to a hazardous state - the machine's maximum reach-point in the lift cycle. The tipping weight is generally twice the weight of the rated operating capacity and will vary whether it’s wheeled or tracked.</p>
<p>When buying a skid steer, it’s best to buy more lift capacity than the heaviest load you need to shift. A big skid steer can safely lift 2045 kilograms at 50% tipping load and a smaller model might have a rated operating capacity of around 590 kilograms at 50% tipping load.</p>
<p>Of course, there’s a higher risk of tipping on uneven ground and lifting shouldn’t take place on slopes.</p>
<h4>Lift configurations</h4>
<p>There are two different lift configurations for skid steers – radial and vertical - each with its own operating capacity.</p>
<p>Vertical lifts are perfect for higher or taller load movements and can access other equipment can’t get to. The vertical lift machine raises straight up. If you are manoeuvring pallets or loading on high-sided trucks, then vertical should be your skid steer of choice. They offer better stability and operating capacity but are more expensive than a radial lift – by up to 15%.</p>
<p>Radial lift skid steers are ideal for load movement at lower ground such as moving earth, shifting rocks, unloading a low-lying truck, or doing some site preparation.</p>
<p>You can get small, medium, and large framed skid steers with each one. If you are undertaking work at or below eye level, a radial machine is best. For high level work, select a vertical lift skid steer.</p>
<h4 class="hr-2">WA owned and operated</h4>
<p>Himac Attachments is a leading specialist in quality skid steer machinery attachments. We have an extensive range of models including buckets, grapples, forks, augers, trenchers, rakes, slashers and more. We focus on in-house manufacturing to bring you only the best attachments.</p>
<p>Call <a href="tel:1800888114" title="Call Himac Attachments">1800 888 114</a> to discuss your requirements with an experienced team member today.</p>",
"created_at": "2021-12-15 09:23:12 +0800",
"excerpt": "Skid steers are workhorses with the power to lift heavy loads – even the average compact skid steer can lift 860 kg. But with any machine, there is a safe limit to what they can lift.",
"excerpt_or_content": "Skid steers are workhorses with the power to lift heavy loads – even the average compact skid steer can lift 860 kg. But with any machine, there is a safe limit to what they can lift.",
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"published_at": "2021-09-08 09:30:00 +0800",
"tags": [
"capacity",
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"title": "Skid Steer Lift Capacity Explained",
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"content": "<p>Telehandlers are that one machine that can do the job of multiple others. Their popularity has soared as people understand the extent of their capabilities.</p>
<p>Often used at the beginning and end of a job on both agriculture and construction sites, a telehandler is known as ‘the lift and place’ tool. It has more potential than a traditional forklift, with its telescopic boom extending up to nine metres at different angles and accommodating numerous lifting attachments.</p>
<p>A telehandler is an elevated work platform and a high-risk piece of equipment. Figures show from Safe Work Australia that over a recent five year period, faulty elevated work platforms caused nine deaths in Australia. Telehandlers must undergo strict inspections to be compliant with Australian regulations. But what are they, and what do they include?</p>
<h4 class="hr-2">Pre-operational inspection</h4>
<p>A qualified operator is obliged to inspect the telehandler for any signs of corrosion and investigate the general performance and operation of the machine.</p>
<h4>Three monthly routine inspection and maintenance</h4>
<p>Every three months (quarterly), a routine inspection takes place by a qualified inspector. There will be a general check for wear and tear to establish any deterioration. An assessment on individual components will be made - such as hydraulic hoses, connections, chains, and cable mechanisms - to ensure they are operating the way they should.</p>
<p>Control functions and safety devices will also come under scrutiny. Fluid levels will be analysed and filters checked, and log books and manuals verified for accuracy. A report will outline whether the telehandler has passed the inspection or not and note any areas which require attention.</p>
<h4>Periodic inspection (Annually)</h4>
<p>Periodic inspections must be undertaken annually by a qualified inspector. The yearly assessment of a telehandler is more in-depth than a quarterly one. An inspector may dismantle parts to assess the safety of the machine. The telehandler will not be allowed back into service until everything is fit for purpose.</p>
<h4>Major inspection at the 10 year mark</h4>
<p>By the time a telehandler reaches its 10 year mark, it may have undergone 10,000 hours of use and deteriorated to an extent where the machine may pose a significant safety danger.</p>
<p>Telehandlers used on constructions sites get heavier wear than those used in agricultural settings. The ten-year inspection is extensive - the most comprehensive in existence. It can take several weeks to complete with the machine and all its components heavily scrutinised. It may involve dismantling parts of the machine.</p>
<p>The inspection will identify any corrosion in materials or parts, capabilities of brakes, booms, and any leakages. Wiring, hydraulics, safety systems, and the functioning of alarms will also come under the inspection spotlight.</p>
<p>A written report will detail any shortcomings and actions required to make the telehandler safe to use once more. Anyone who fails to comply with inspections could face a hefty fine and a prosecution.</p>
<h4 class="hr-2">Tap into true Telehandler potential</h4>
<p>No one knows telehandlers like Himac Attachments. The functionality of a telehandler surpasses a forklift. To make the most of your telehandler, why not investigate the <a href="/pages/telehandler-attachments" title="Himac Telehandler Attachments">Himac range of attachments</a> - all engineered in Australia - to suit all models. <a href="/pages/contact" title="Contact Himac Attachments">Contact us today</a> to find out more about our durable and reliable attachments.</p>",
"created_at": "2021-12-15 09:09:57 +0800",
"excerpt": "Telehandlers must undergo strict inspections to be compliant with Australian regulations. But what are they, and what do they include?",
"excerpt_or_content": "Telehandlers must undergo strict inspections to be compliant with Australian regulations. But what are they, and what do they include?",
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"published_at": "2021-08-03 09:30:00 +0800",
"tags": [
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"inspection",
"maintenance",
"operation",
"safety",
"telehandlers",
"tips"
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"content": "<p>It’s a significant world producer of wheat, wool, and beef, with around two-thirds exported overseas. It is no surprise that the agriculture and farming industry is one of the largest employers in Australia. Ten thousand tractors are bought by Australians every year, however they are no longer made in this country.</p>
<p>Throughout the 20th Century up until the 1980s, Australia was renowned for its tractors. There was a rich history of tractor production from AcreMaster to International, McDonald, Waltanna, Phoenix, and Chamberlain.</p>
<p>In these early, heady days of tractor manufacturing in Australia, there was a buzz of excitement with companies competing to introduce the most powerful tractors onto the market.</p>
<h4 class="hr-2">The birth of the Chamberlain Tractor</h4>
<p>The latest statistics by the Agrievolution Alliance show that two million tractors are bought every year, but none are made on Australian soil. But that hasn’t always been the case. One of the biggest and well-known tractor manufacturers was Chamberlain Industries – one of the few tractor companies in WA.</p>
<p>Chamberlain Industries was the brainchild of mechanic Bert Chamberlain. His 40K tractor caught the eye of the Western Australian Government that encouraged him to produce them at an ex-munitions factory in Welshpool near Perth. With twin-cylinder engines and a 40 horsepower, the first one rolled off the production line in 1949.</p>
<h4>Expansion opportunities</h4>
<p>In the 1950s, Chamberlain Industries started to produce farming implements such as seeders and ploughs. In 1955 the Champion Diesel Tractor was introduced replacing replaced petrol models. With special tyres, gears, and beaks, it could reach impressive speeds of 70 mph.</p>
<p>One was modified and used for publicity purposes. ‘Tail-End Charlie’ - was entered into various motor rallies and had a modified cab, bench seats, and high-speed gears, and was capable of reaching high speeds. During one stage of a race, it ended up towing six broken-down vehicles. ‘Tail-End Charlie’ is now on display in the Tractor Museum of Western Australia in Caversham with displays paying homage to Australian tractors of yesteryear.</p>
<h4>John Deere and Chamberlain Industries</h4>
<p>In 1964 Chamberlain Industries achieved an Export Award. American firm John Deere and Co bought a stake in the firm in 1970, and the Welshpool manufacturing plant underwent a refurbishment to cope with an increase in production. But during the 1980s, international competition led to a drop in sales. By this stage, John Deere had total control of Chamberlains, but by 1986 the site was closed, and production stopped.</p>
<p>The Chamberlain brand of tractors continued for a while but made overseas. The golden era of tractor manufacturing in Australia came to a stall, but John Deere still has a presence in Australia with its headquarters in Queensland.</p>
<h4>Where Tractors are made today?</h4>
<p>Today, China, India, and the USA are the top three manufacturers of tractors. In Europe, Turkey is the leader. The United States and China are the highest agricultural producing countries in the world, therefore no surprise they both dominate tractor manufacturing.</p>
<p>While Australia no longer makes tractors anymore, Australian companies such as Boss Engineering and K-Line AG produce agricultural equipment such as seeders and planters. Himac in WA has an extensive range of attachments constructed out of high-grade steel to withstand rough climate and terrain.</p>
<p>Himac Attachments has its head office and manufacturing base in Albany. Choose from more than 600 attachments that are all priced competitively, and you will be supporting a local Australian company. We are sure to have one to suit your requirements, so <a href="/pages/contact" title="Contact Himac Attachments">contact us today</a>.</p>",
"created_at": "2021-12-15 08:40:15 +0800",
"excerpt": "Ten thousand tractors are bought by Australians every year, however they are no longer made in this country. We dig into the history of Australian-made tractors and when this changed.",
"excerpt_or_content": "Ten thousand tractors are bought by Australians every year, however they are no longer made in this country. We dig into the history of Australian-made tractors and when this changed.",
"handle": "the-himac-herald/what-tractors-are-made-in-australia",
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"published_at": "2021-07-01 09:00:00 +0800",
"tags": [
"agriculture",
"australia",
"farming",
"farming equipment",
"manufacturing"
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"title": "What Tractors Are Made in Australia?",
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"content": "<p>Driving a skid steer can be both exciting and intimidating, with people saying it is like riding on a large lawnmower.</p>
<p>The trick to driving a skid steer is manoeuvring it correctly, being aware of the type of ground underneath and avoiding sudden stops and turns, and moving at the appropriate speed for the conditions.</p>
<p>Eventually, you will become familiar with your machine and learn to be a competent operator. At some time or other, you may experience bounce due to either operator error or a problem with the skid steer itself.</p>
<h4 class="hr-2">Operation techniques</h4>
<p>Controls will vary depending on the age of the equipment, but most will have joystick operation for concise movement.</p>
<p>By moving the joysticks slowly at the same speed, you can avoid jerks or bounces. Keep your turns long and wide and minimise abrupt movement. Be aware of the type of soil and ground conditions you are travelling over and the weight of loads lifted. You can alter the engine speed to slow the machine to create a smoother experience.</p>
<p>If you believe the bounce is not due to operator error – it’s time to check your machine.</p>
<h4>Tyre pressure</h4>
<p>Tyres are the only thing on your skid steer that touch the floor and grip the surface. They absorb the ground shocks, maintain the direction of travel, and support the machine.</p>
<p>Make sure your tyres are fit for purpose. Look out for damage on tyres - any cuts, stone, or debris to affect overall performance.</p>
<p>If your tyres are over-inflated, it may impact operation. Always keep a check on tyre pressure along with its wear. Low tyre pressure could contribute to bounce and destroy the sidewall and tread. Ensure your tyre pressure is at the level outlined in the manual. Inflation levels are also on the tyre sidewall.</p>
<p>As a guide, normal skid steer tyre pressure should range from 45-60 PSI – pounds per square inch.</p>
<h4>Check your Attachments</h4>
<p>Just because your attachment fits your skid steer, it is not necessarily the best one for it. The power, weight, and hydraulic capacity of your skid steer will impact your attachments.</p>
<p>The wrong one will affect the performance and contribute to bouncing. Some skid steer attachments require minimum hydraulic flow.</p>
<h4>Hydraulic flow</h4>
<p>Your fluid system drives and lubricates the machine, protecting it against wear and corrosion and cooling many parts.</p>
<p>The fluid flow of your machine will dictate speed and response. Loss of flow will equate to poor performance. Check for leakage because this will also impact your machine’s capabilities.</p>
<h4 class="hr-2">How can Himac help?</h4>
<p>Himac Attachments are the experts in skid steer attachments. With over 600 in stock, our focus is to supply you with a quality attachment suited for your project.</p>
<p>Whether you’re clearing rubble, digging trenches, or moving boulders – we can help. Himac’s skid steer attachments are constructed out of high-grade steel to withstand Australia’s rough climate and terrain. <a href="/pages/contact">Contact us</a> today for a no-obligation free quote.</p>",
"created_at": "2021-06-18 15:08:21 +0800",
"excerpt": "The trick to driving a skid steer is manoeuvring it correctly. At some time or other, you may experience bounce due to either operator error or a problem with the skid steer itself.",
"excerpt_or_content": "The trick to driving a skid steer is manoeuvring it correctly. <meta charset="utf-8"><span>At some time or other, you may experience bounce due to either operator error or a problem with the skid steer itself.</span>",
"handle": "the-himac-herald/how-do-you-keep-a-skid-steer-from-bouncing",
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"content": "<p>It’s a commonly asked question - ‘Do skid steers tip over easily?’ The answer may surprise you - while there are potential hazards with most outdoor work, rollovers and tips are relatively rare.</p>
<p>More accidents occur involving people trapped between the frame and attachment rather than the skid steer itself tipping over. The key to avoiding any nasty surprises is for operators to become familiar with their machines.</p>
<h4 class="hr-2">When are you most at risk of a tip?</h4>
<p>Certain ground conditions create higher risks - driving on soft earth, near river banks, water, or uneven ground. Steep slopes are another hazard. If you do have to travel uphill, the heavy part of the skid steer should point uphill. If you have an empty bucket, drive back up the hill. Go up and down it in your machine rather than across it.</p>
<p>Too much weight on an attachment to your skid steer may affect its balance along with overloading a bucket. Keeping a load closer to the centre of gravity will improve overall stability. Always lower the bucket or attachment so that it is flat on the ground. Never attempt to activate the controls from outside the driver’s compartment.</p>
<p>Be aware of the limitations of your skid steer machine – it should not be driven at excess speeds and communicate your movements to anyone nearby.</p>
<h4>Skid Steer safety</h4>
<p>Skid steers are built with durability and safety in mind to protect the driver as much as possible and have protective features known as ROPs and FOPS. Confused about these acronyms? Let us explain.</p>
<p>ROPS is a cab and rollover protective structure (ROPS) to safeguard individuals. ROPS is similar to a roll cage in a race car that protects a rally driver. The steel bars attach to the frame of a cab to offer protection so the driver won’t get crushed in the event of a tip or overturn.</p>
<p>Then there is FOPS – a falling object protective structure, like a mesh, that protects an operator from falling objects such as branches and rocks.</p>
<p>Interlocked control systems are another safety aspect of skid steers. It allows a machine to operate if specific measures are in place – such as an operator sitting in the seat with a seat belt on with the restraint bar down. Electronic interlocked systems may also detect when someone shuts down the machine.</p>
<p>All drivers should wear a seatbelt at all times to prevent them from being thrown from their seats. Either a lap seat belt or a three-point shoulder one will suffice. No one should ever get into a skid steer without wearing a hard hat, ear protection, and safety footwear.</p>
<p>Skid steers themselves aren’t more dangerous than any other type of equipment when used and maintained responsibly.</p>
<h4 class="hr-2">Unleash the potential</h4>
<p>Whatever your requirements, contact Himac Attachments for all your skid steer needs. We can give you a quote on the spot. We have the largest range of skid steer attachments in Australia, with <strong>over 85% of them made on Australian soil</strong>. <a href="/pages/contact">Contact us</a> today to find out more about our durable and reliable attachments.</p>",
"created_at": "2021-06-18 13:59:51 +0800",
"excerpt": "It’s a common question! More accidents occur involving people trapped between the frame and attachment rather than the skid steer itself tipping over.",
"excerpt_or_content": "It’s a common question! More accidents occur involving people trapped between the frame and attachment rather than the skid steer itself tipping over.",
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"published_at": "2021-06-18 14:00:00 +0800",
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"title": "Do Skid Steers Tip Over Easily?",
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"content": "<p>It’s widely believed that an excavator can do a job that’s equivalent to twenty people manually taking on the same work load. It’s undoubtedly one of the most useful pieces of equipment on a construction site, but when it comes to buying an excavator, you need to do plenty of research. Buying one is an investment that shouldn’t be taken lightly.</p>
<p>The first decision is whether to buy new or used. New excavators are expensive, but generally they will have better fuel efficiency and a longer warranty. A used excavator will be more affordable and if checked thoroughly will provide you with the same level of functionality and durability.</p>
<h4 class="hr-2">Scope and functionality</h4>
<p>Excavators have moved on from the traditional crawler type with one large book and tracks. Spider excavators are perfect if you’re working on sloping sites. Long reach excavators have an expansive outreach while still digging deep into the ground. For tight spaces, a zero-swing excavator allows for 360 degree manoeuvrability and has a fixed footprint on the ground. Make sure you’re buying the right excavator for your chosen work.</p>
<h4>Take it for a test drive</h4>
<p>Just like a used car, you’ll want to test drive it. If it’s a used excavator climb into the excavator machine and check how it performs under load. Listen carefully for any unfamiliar noises. Check the stick, boom and bucket and that no bushings or pins are loose.</p>
<p>Don’t forget to look at the undercarriage as well, taking a close inspection of the chains, sprockets and rollers. The condition of the tracks should come under scrutiny as well as wheels and tyres.</p>
<p>If there’s an enclosed cab, ensure that the door shuts firm, and the latches are in order. Are there any chips or cracks on the glass screens and do the wipers work?</p>
<h4>Inspect the engine and hydraulics</h4>
<p>Pay careful attention to the engine because it’s the lifeblood of your machine. Does it look fairly clean or is it dirty and grubby? Examine the fluid levels and ensure there are no oil leaks.</p>
<p>Inspect your cylinders, hoses and lines. A hydraulic leak could signal a major problem or could just mean a seal needs replacing. Investigate the hydraulic pump and look for signs that could be spark trouble.</p>
<p>The hydraulic pump can be expensive to replace and when it starts to wear debris can get into the system affecting its performance. Check that it’s not emitting too much heat or that the cylinders are running slow or erratically.</p>
<h4>Check the external bodywork</h4>
<p>Excavators take a great deal of pounding, so check for cracks especially on the weld joints and don’t be afraid to ask about any dents. Severe bodywork damage may indicate the structural integrity is compromised. Scuffs and scratches are to be expected and should be viewed as just cosmetic damage.</p>
<p>Himac Attachments is West Australian’s leading specialist in quality machinery attachments. We have more than 600 products, all Australian made which are proven to have twice the longevity of the industry average. For all your excavator attachments, why not give us a call today and find out why we’re the company of choice for the construction, farming and earth moving industry.</p>",
"created_at": "2021-05-17 13:08:27 +0800",
"excerpt": "It’s one of the most useful pieces of construction equipment, but when it comes to buying an excavator, you need to do plenty of research.",
"excerpt_or_content": "It’s one of the most useful pieces of construction equipment, but when it comes to buying an excavator, you need to do plenty of research.",
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"published_at": "2021-05-17 11:00:00 +0800",
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"title": "Things to Look For When Buying an Excavator",
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"content": "<p>A skid steer is one of the most common and versatile pieces of equipment you’ll find on a working site. It can help you dig, collect, lift and shift material. It’s the go-to piece of machinery for all locations.</p>
<p>It has unlimited potential because of the number of attachments available to tackle most worksite jobs. A skid steer’s auxiliary hydraulic system enables the hydraulic flow to drive the machines attachments. Not all attachments have the same hydraulic flow requirement.</p>
<h4 class="hr-2">Go with the (right) flow</h4>
<p>For any attachment using a hydraulic system, flow refers to the level of hydraulic fluid moving through the hoses to power them. Hydraulic fluid is the lifeblood of a hydraulic system. The more flow the greater the motor will turn leading to greater productivity.</p>
<p>The force is measured in litres per minute. Low flow is anything between 68 and 95 litres per minute (18 and 25 gallons) with high flow between 115 to 170 litres per minute (30 and 45 gallons).</p>
<p>Standard flow would be in the middle. For demanding jobs you might need a bit of grunt and that’s where high flow hydraulic systems can increase productivity levels and the more you can accomplish.</p>
<h4>Is a High Flow Skid Steer worth it?</h4>
<p>It very much depends on your budget and needs. Because it is more powerful, it comes with a higher price tag. You’ll achieve more and get greater performance levels but do you really need that extra power jobs. General jobs that require a skid steer for a bucket or a spreader will work well with low or standard flow and will be kinder on your wallet.</p>
<p>If your skid steer is going to be used year round with high capacity attachments such as stump grinders and breakers, it’s worth paying the extra premium and going for high flow. It will also add to the resale value.</p>
<p>Before you make that final decision consider the power for your skid steer, how an attachment will be used, the environment and terrain where it will be operational, whether the ground will be smooth and even or rocky. Ask yourself whether it’s going to be used day in, day out in a commercial setting or for your own personal use.</p>
<p>High flow attachments work best with high flow machines otherwise they’ll operate less efficiently. Powering high-flow attachments with a standard flow skid steer may also damage the attachment or skid steer.</p>
<h4>Making a decision</h4>
<p>At Himac Attachments we have the largest range of skid steer attachments in Australia to suit all major brands. Each one built for longevity to a high specification, constructed out of high-grade steel that are all highly resistant to corrosion or damage.</p>
<p>Brands include Bobcat, Gehl, Mustang, Komatsu, JCB, John Deere and Cat. With over 600 quality attachments in stock, we can help with your selection and offer free advice. We’re proudly West Australian and build attachments backed with years of industry expertise.</p>
<p>Don’t take our word for it, <a href="https://www.google.com/search?q=himac&oq=himac+&aqs=chrome..69i57j69i59j0i271j69i60l5.780j0j4&sourceid=chrome&ie=UTF-8#lrd=0x2a39211975c011dd:0x3b52edb233018c89,1,,," target="_blank" title="Himac Attachments Google Reviews" rel="noopener noreferrer">check out our Google reviews</a> – a great testament to the products and high level of service we provide.</p>",
"created_at": "2021-05-17 13:26:33 +0800",
"excerpt": "Hydraulic fluid is the lifeblood of a hydraulic system. The more flow the greater the motor will turn leading to greater productivity.",
"excerpt_or_content": "Hydraulic fluid is the lifeblood of a hydraulic system. The more flow the greater the motor will turn leading to greater productivity.",
"handle": "the-himac-herald/what-makes-a-skid-steer-high-flow",
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"published_at": "2021-04-28 13:30:00 +0800",
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"title": "What Makes a Skid Steer High Flow?",
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