What is a Scraper?

A scraper (or wheel tractor-scraper) is a piece of heavy equipment used for earthmoving. It primarily functions to flatten land surfaces by scraping, loading, hauling, dumping, and spreading earth material over medium distances. They are commonly used in large-scale construction, mining, and agricultural land-leveling projects in New Zealand.

Key Features of a Scraper

• Loading Mechanism: Uses a vertically moving hopper (bowl) with a sharp front edge that cuts into the soil, loading material as the machine moves forward. Some models have elevators to assist loading.
• Hauling Capability: Designed to transport the loaded material within its bowl over the required distance on the job site.
• Spreading Function: The bowl floor slides or ejects the material in controlled layers as the scraper moves, achieving rough grading.
• Configuration Types: Can be single-engine (requiring a push-tractor for loading), tandem-engine (push-pull capable), or elevating scrapers (self-loading).

Considerations for use of Scrapers

When selecting or utilising a scraper, consider these factors:

• Haul Distance: Scrapers are most efficient for medium haul distances (typically a few hundred meters to a few kilometers).
• Material Type: Performance varies with soil type; some materials may require push-loading assistance even with self-loading models.
• Site Conditions: Ground conditions, grades, and rolling resistance significantly impact scraper efficiency and cycle times.
• Fleet Configuration: Determine if push-tractors are needed or if push-pull or elevating scrapers are more suitable for the operation.