Mines that utilize single-side loading typically have hydraulic shovels. The reason is that the hydraulic shovels’ cab is on the left side of the machine and the cab of the truck is on the left side so both the truck and the shovel have direct eye contact to each other.
Advantages of Single-side Loading
- It’s easier for the truck operators because it’s on their cab-side
- It’s safer due to cab to cab eye contact with the hydraulic shovel
- Have less incidents due to truck / shovel contact
- Often times quicker spot times due to direct eye contact with shovel
Single side loading puts more emphasis on the trucks to quickly get into position. They typically have 30 seconds from the time the loaded truck is honked out and for the next one to get into position.
* Note Truck drivers must be proficient to quickly get into the correct loading position at the shovel. Remember: when the shovel waits for a truck to get into position – production stops!
