The name "skid steer" perfectly captures the essence of this versatile piece of construction equipment. But why is it called that? It all comes down to its unique steering mechanism. Unlike traditional vehicles that use a steering wheel to turn the front wheels, skid steers utilize a system where the wheels on one side move independently of the wheels on the other. This allows for incredibly tight turning circles and maneuverability in confined spaces. Let's delve deeper into the mechanics and the reasoning behind the name.
How Does a Skid Steer Steer?
The key to understanding the name lies in the machine's steering system. Instead of a traditional steering column and linkages, skid steers use two hydraulic motors, one for each side of the machine. By independently controlling the speed of these motors, the operator can cause one side of the machine to move faster than the other. This difference in speed causes the machine to "skid" sideways, hence the name "skid steer." The wheels on the faster-moving side essentially spin while the other side provides traction.
What Happens During a Turn?
Imagine you want to turn left. The operator reduces the speed of the right-hand drive motor, causing the right-hand wheels to slow or stop. The left-hand drive motor continues at its speed, causing the machine to pivot around the slower-moving right side. The machine "skids" into the turn. This unique method of steering, where the machine pivots around one set of wheels instead of smoothly turning all the wheels, is why it's called a skid steer.
Other Names for Skid Steers
While "skid steer" is the most common and widely accepted name, you might also hear it called by other names, including:
- Bobcat: This is a brand name, but due to Bobcat's early dominance in the market, the name has become a generic term for skid steers, much like "Kleenex" for tissues. However, it's crucial to remember that other manufacturers produce skid steers.
- Compact Track Loader: This term refers to skid steers that use tracks instead of wheels. While the steering principle remains the same, the tracks provide enhanced traction and stability, particularly in rough or muddy terrain.
- SSL (Skid Steer Loader): This is a more formal, technical term often used in industry publications and specifications.
Why is the Skid Steer Design so Effective?
The skid steer design offers several significant advantages:
- Exceptional Maneuverability: The ability to turn in incredibly tight spaces makes them ideal for working in confined areas like construction sites, landscaping projects, and agricultural settings.
- Versatility: A wide array of attachments—from buckets and forks to snow blowers and augers—can be quickly interchanged, expanding the machine's functionality.
- Compact Size: Their relatively small size allows for easy transport and operation in narrow spaces.
Is there any other type of steering system on a compact loader?
While the skid steer design is the most common, some compact loaders use other steering systems, such as articulated steering, where the machine pivots at a central point. This is less common than skid steering but offers different benefits.
In conclusion, the name "skid steer" accurately reflects the unique steering mechanism of these highly versatile machines. Understanding this mechanism highlights the ingenuity of the design and its impact on the construction, landscaping, and agricultural industries.
