Bobcat snow removal

Types of Bobcat Snow Removals

Bobcats are mini excavators frequently used for snow removal operations and ease of lifting and excavating issues. They are prevalent in the snow removal industry because of their versatility and compactness. Multiple attachments can be fixed to a Bobcat to move or remove snow, which is an asset during winter.

Here are some common types of Bobcat snow removals:

• Bobcat Snow Bucket:

  This is a large, U-shaped attachment with a curved front lip. The buckets come in different sizes to suit various Bobcat models. It is a widely-used attachment for Bobcats and is designed to scoop and carry loose materials. A snow bucket is commonly used to remove unleased powder snow. It can be used to push or pile snow as it has no sidewalls.

• Snow Plow:

  This is a flat attachment with a rectangular shape that is fixed to the front of the Bobcat. A Bobcat snow plow comes in various styles, including straight, V-shaped, curved, and winged. The plow is pushed in front of the Bobcat to move or push snow out of the way. The plow can be fixed in a straight position or angled to one side to get the desired snow removal effect.

• Snow Blower:

  A Bobcat snow blower is another common attachment for a Bobcat snow removal machine. It is used to clear large amounts of snow quickly. This machine uses a powerful engine to blow through heavy snow and clears paths and sidewalks. The snow is thrown to the side as the Bobcat moves through the area, creating a cleared path behind it.

• Bobcat Snow Wing:

  A Snow Wing is a large, curved blade fixed to the sides of the Bobcat with brackets. It is also called a snow belt or snow wing. The wings push large amounts of snow to the side. The wings can be controlled to adjust the pushing motion of the snow. A Snow Wing is great for widening trails and clearing roadways.

• Bobcat Auger:

  This attachment is used for digging holes in the snow. A Bobcat snow auger is a spiral-shaped drill attached to the front of the Bobcat. It is designed to clear snow, ice, or material in a cylindrical pattern. An auger can dig holes of specified diameters and depths and clear snow for sign or pole placements.

Specification & maintenance of bobcat snow removal

Specifications

Some basic specs of Bobcat snow removals are as follows.

• Width: There are some variations in the size and widths of Bobcat snow removers. Generally, it varies from 60 cm to 253 cm.
• Horsepower: The amount of snow that a Bobcat can remove depends upon the horsepower it delivers. For some models it is as little as 9 HP, while for others it can be as much as 35 HP or even higher.
• Weight: The weight of Bobcat snow removers also varies from model to model. Typically, their weight is about 136 kg to 632 kg.
• Type: Generally, two types of Bobcats are available: Bobcat loaders and trucks. Bobcat loaders are used more often because they are small and easy to use.
• Engine: Bobcat snow removers can be either gas or diesel powered. The gas engine typically varies from 15 to 30 HP, while the diesel engine varies from 23 to 50 HP.

These specifications can vary based on the exact model and type of Bobcat being referred to.

Maintenance Tips

• Lubrication: Bobcat snow removals have moving parts like any other machinery. They need to be properly lubricated to reduce friction, wear, and tear between the moving parts. This ensures longevity and smooth operation.
• Insurance Coverage: Many insurance companies provide coverage for machinery and equipment during the snowy weather, but only if the snow removal Bobcat is stored at a specific temperature. This helps to stop the machinery from becoming snowed under ice and keeps it operational.
• Regular Inspection: Conducting regular inspections helps to identify any parts that are going to wear out and need repair or replacement. This avoids any breakdowns that may occur due to negligence. It helps the Bobcat to perform optimally all the time.
• Cleaning: Using snow-specific cleaning products to clean the Bobcat snow removal shows that the machine is ready to be used to remove snow. Proper cleaning also gets rid of contaminants and dirt that wear out the machines faster.
• Storage: If the Bobcat snow removal is not going to be used for some time, its storage is very important to prevent any damage. Find a dry place away from direct sunlight that can harbor any mold or mildew on the machine. The temperature should also be ideal to keep the machine in a perfect condition to be used whenever needed.

In summary, maintaining the operational efficiency of Bobcat snow removers is possible by following these simple maintenance tips. Carry out regular inspections, cleaning, lubrication, and even storage when the machine is not in use. This helps the business owner to avoid unnecessary downtime and lowers any operational costs resulting from frequent repairs.

Scenarios of bobcat snow removal

• Residential driveways and walkways

  For homeowners who live in areas that see a lot of snowfall, a bobcat can be used on a personal basis to clear out the driveway and walkways. Using a bobcat can make it easier to transport and clear away snow, giving a quick and simple way to make sure that vehicles can get out and important walkways are accessible.

• Residential neighborhoods

  In cases where snow accumulation is too great for the typical community shared efforts, a bobcat can help clear key roads and paths so that all remaining snow can be dealt with in an efficient manner. This allows residents to quickly regain access to essential neighborhood transit routes.

• Commercial parking lots and sidewalks

  For business premises open to customers regardless of the weather conditions, bobcats allow clearance of public and employee transit areas so that all important portions remain unobstructed by snow to sustain constant activity and full mobility. This enhances the ability of companies to continue serving their clientele without any operational limitations due to winter weather.

• Public roads and highways

  Bobcats facilitate the renewal of vital thoroughfares and interurban connections by eradicating the snow that falls and accumulates on this infrastructure, thus making it possible for the entire population to utilize these routes without any hindrance. The usage of bobcats is fundamental for maintaining the connectivity of all individuals even in adverse weather conditions through the effective removal of snow from roads and highways.

• Airports and train stations

  Bobcats represent a crucial tool for clearing the platforms and runways of these transport centers, thus enabling the complete normal functioning of all services offered in spite of the eventualities arising from the appearance of low temperatures and the presence of snow.

• Construction sites

  While most construction efforts are put on hold in the winter months due to cold weather and snow, bobcats can nonetheless be valuable at these locations. They can be used to clear away any snow accumulation where future building plans are slated, as well as to create access routes and areas for the temporary storage of equipment and supplies. Using a bobcat in this manner allows for better preparation of construction sites once winter is over and spring arrives.

How to choose Bobcat snow removals

In order to equip a Bobcat skid steer in their locality, buyers should first evaluate their typical snowfall amounts.

They should examine how many inches of snow typically fall each year and if the snow is sometimes challenging to remove, like when temperatures fall below zero, snow becomes icy, or multiple layers accumulate. If they live in a region frequently blanketed with deep, stubborn snow, selecting a powerful Bobcat model with ample horsepower and a robust hydraulic system to support large, efficient snow-removal attachments will be prudent. In contrast, areas that see only a few lightweight snowfalls annually wouldn't need a high-powered Bobcat to handle snow duties.

Buyers should also evaluate the scope of snow-removal projects they typically undertake and the types of spaces that need clearing. A little Bobcat model will suffice for removing snow from residential sidewalks and driveways. However, if buyers are responsible for clearing expansive parking lots or long stretches of roadways, a more substantial Bobcat .

Consider the attachments that help get the snow out efficiently. Buyers can opt for a Bobcat skid steer equipped with a snow shovel for areas with only thin snowfalls over bare ground or a snow blower for more profound, uninterrupted stretches of snow. Snow plows and blades work best for dealing with fresh snow, while snow blowers are more effective at tackling crusted snow and snow that has lain untouched for some time. Buyers need to consider the configuration of the snow-removal attachment they want. A curved blade helps clear snow easily, but a straight one offers a better clearance at the Bobcat's front. A thoughtful attachment configuration will help to remove the snow in an area better.

FAQ

Q1: How much snow do you need to remove to justify Bobcat?

A1: If two to three hours of snow removal is required each time, it makes sense to invest in a Bobcat. Pushing 1 to 2 feet of snow will also justify the purchase or rental of a Bobcat.

Q2: What are the biggest challenges in snow removal Bobcat?

A2: The biggest challenge is to keep the snow moving at all times. Other challenges include finding efficient places to stack snow, removing deep snow and ice, ensuring the safety of everybody, maximizing snowfall hours, and dealing with equipment downtime.

Q3: Is there an efficient way to remove snow with Bobcat?

A3: Yes, the best way to remove snow with Bobcat is to have a plan before the snow starts to fall and to keep the snow moving at all times. Round piling of snow works great, especially for deep snow. Snow melting with salt can be dealt with by using the rotary plow for salted snow and the scoop for salty sludge. Always focus on the roadways and let the pathways follow. At the end of the removal process, sidewalks can be cleaned up with a walk-behind machine.