Common single-bucket loaders are classified based on engine power, transmission type, running gear structure, and unloading method.
Engine power:
① Small loaders: power < 74 kW;
② Medium loaders: power 74–147 kW;
③ Large loaders: power 147–515 kW;
④ Extra-large loaders: power > 515 kW.
Transmission type:
① Hydro-mechanical transmission: features low impact and vibration, long component service life, ease of operation, and automatic adjustment between vehicle speed and external load; commonly used in medium and large loaders.
② Hydrostatic (hydraulic) transmission: offers stepless speed regulation and simple operation but has poorer starting performance; generally used only in small loaders.
③ Electric transmission: offers stepless speed regulation, reliable operation, and simple maintenance but entails higher costs; generally used in large loaders.
Running gear structure:
① Tire-type: lightweight, fast, highly maneuverable, and efficient; does not easily damage road surfaces; however, it has high ground pressure and poor off-road mobility, yet remains widely used.
② Crawler-type: features low ground pressure, good off-road mobility, low center of gravity, high stability, strong adhesion, high tractive force, and high breakout force; however, it has low speed, relatively poor maneuverability, and high costs, and can easily damage road surfaces during travel.
Unloading method:
① Front-unloading: simple structure, reliable operation, and good visibility; suitable for various job sites and widely used.
② Rotary (swing) type: the working mechanism is mounted on a turntable capable of 360° rotation; allows side unloading without turning the vehicle, resulting in high efficiency; however, the structure is complex, heavy, and costly, with poorer lateral stability; suitable for confined spaces.
③ Rear-unloading: loads at the front and unloads at the rear; offers high efficiency but has relatively poor operational safety.
