Equipment Definitions
It’s important to have the right equipment for the job. The versatility of our fleet allows Potomac to tackle any weather situation to do our job more efficiently. We help our customers choose the best option for their properties in order to get the job done in the most cost effective manner. Below are several options available to our customers.
Heavy Equipment Options
Skid Steer – A skid loader or skid steer loader is a small rigid frame, engine-powered machine with lift arms used to attach a wide variety of labor-saving tools or attachments including blades to the buckets, which can be used like a snow plow but with an increased cut width. Though sometimes they are equipped with tracks, skid-steer loaders are typically four-wheel drive vehicles. Skid steer loaders are capable of zero-radius, “pirouette” turning, which makes them extremely maneuverable and valuable for applications that require a compact, agile loader. Like other front loaders, it can push material from one location to another, carry material in its bucket or load material into a truck or trailer.
Large Loader – A loader, also called a front loader or front end loader is a type of tractor, usually wheeled, that uses a wide square tilting bucket on the end of movable arms to lift and move material. You can also attach blades to the buckets to be used just like a snow plow creating a more efficient wide cut. Unlike bulldozers, most loaders are wheeled and not tracked. Wheels provide better mobility (and speed) and do not damage paved roads. Their deep bucket can store about 3-5 cubic meters (exact number varies with the model). The front loader’s bucket capacity is much bigger than a bucket capacity of a backhoe loader.
Backhoe – An excavator whose bucket is rigidly attached to a hinged pole on the boom and is drawn backward to the machine when in operation. Many are mounted on a loader. The backhoe also can have attached blades to the buckets.
Trucks
Plow Truck – A 4×4 pick-up truck with a snow blade attached used to push snow, especially from roads and parking lots.
Salt/Sand Truck – A truck attached with a gritter. Gritters are used to spread grit, a mixture of sand and salt or potassium chloride, onto roads. The grit is stored in the large hopper on the rear of the vehicle, with a wire mesh over the top to prevent foreign objects from entering the spreading mechanism.
Power Equipment
ATV with Snow Plow – A four-wheel all terrain vehicle that has a snow blade attached to the front and is very effective for snow plow use in tight spots or on sidewalks.
Snow Blower – A machine that clears snow from a surface by collecting a swath of snow and projecting it forcefully through a chute. This is typically used for sidewalks and tight against buildings or loading ramps.
Back Pack Blower – An engine-driven device mounted on a backpack that is used to propel snow for removal. These are used most commonly on sidewalks and around buildings.
