Rotary Plow: The Efficient Solution to Heavy Snowfall – When the winter season comes, snow and ice can be a major challenge for many homeowners and businesses.
Heavy snowfalls can create hazardous conditions that can affect daily activities and pose a threat to safety.
The use of a rotary plow can be the most effective and efficient solution to clearing snow, making it safer for everyone to move around.
In this article, we will discuss what a rotary plow is, its types, components, working mechanism, advantages, and maintenance.
Definition and Purpose of Rotary Plow
A rotary plow is a machine used for removing snow from driveways, sidewalks, parking lots, and other areas. It is designed to clear snow more efficiently than other snow removal equipment.
It is powered by a gasoline engine and has a rotating impeller that picks up snow and throws it into the machine’s auger, which moves the snow to the discharge chute.
The discharge chute throws the snow to the side or behind the machine, depending on its design. Rotary plows are used to clear heavy snowfalls that cannot be handled by a regular snow blower.
Types of Rotary Plows
There are three main types of rotary plows: single-stage, two-stage, and three-stage.
Single-stage rotary plow
Single-stage rotary plows are designed to pick up snow and throw it out through the chute in one stage. They are ideal for light to moderate snowfalls, typically up to six inches.
Single-stage rotary plows are less expensive and less powerful than two-stage and three-stage plows.
Two-stage rotary plow
Two-stage rotary plows have an impeller that moves snow into the auger, which then discharges the snow through the chute.
The two-stage design allows for greater snow removal capacity and clearing depth. Two-stage rotary plows are ideal for heavy snowfalls up to 12 inches.
Three-stage rotary plow
Three-stage rotary plows have an additional fan between the impeller and the auger, which moves snow to the center of the auger, increasing snow intake and clearing capacity.
Three-stage rotary plows are ideal for clearing large amounts of snow and ice up to 18 inches deep.
Components of a Rotary Plow
A rotary plow has several components that work together to efficiently clear snow. These components include:
Engine
The engine is the power source that drives the impeller and auger. Most rotary plows are powered by a gasoline engine with horsepower ranging from 5 to 10.
Transmission
The transmission connects the engine to the impeller and auger. The transmission allows the operator to adjust the speed of the machine, which is important in various snow conditions.
Impeller
The impeller is a high-speed rotating fan that pulls in snow from the ground and moves it to the auger. The impeller’s speed and power are determined by the engine’s horsepower.
Auger
The auger is a rotating screw-like blade that moves the snow to the discharge chute. The auger’s speed is determined by the transmission.
Skid Shoes
The skid shoes are adjustable and allow the operator to set the height of the machine, preventing it from damaging surfaces such as concrete or asphalt.
How a Rotary Plow Works
A rotary plow works by using its components together to clear snow. Here is how it works:
- Starting the engine: The operator starts the engine using a pull cord or electric start. Once the engine is running, the operator can engage the transmission.
- Engaging the transmission: The operator can adjust the speed of the machine using the transmission. A slower speed is recommended for heavy snowfalls, while a faster speed is suitable for lighter snowfalls.
- Impeller rotation and snow intake: The impeller rotates at a high speed, creating a suction that lifts the snow off the ground and moves it to the auger. The impeller’s power is determined by the engine’s horsepower.
- Auger rotation and discharge: The auger moves the snow to the discharge chute, where it is thrown to the side or behind the machine. The auger’s speed is determined by the transmission. The discharge chute’s direction is adjustable, allowing the operator to choose where the snow is thrown.
- Skid shoes for height adjustment: The skid shoes are adjustable, allowing the operator to set the height of the machine. This feature is important in preventing the machine from damaging surfaces such as concrete or asphalt.
Advantages of Rotary Plows
Rotary plows offer several advantages compared to other snow removal equipment. These advantages include:
Ability to handle heavy snowfall
Rotary plows are designed to handle heavy snowfalls that cannot be handled by regular snow blowers. This feature makes them ideal for areas that experience heavy snowfalls.
Efficient snow clearing
Rotary plows are more efficient at clearing snow compared to other snow removal equipment. Their high-speed impeller and auger move snow quickly, allowing for faster and more efficient snow removal.
Versatility in terrain and snow conditions
Rotary plows are versatile in different terrains and snow conditions. They can clear snow on flat surfaces such as driveways and sidewalks, as well as on uneven terrains such as gravel and dirt surfaces.
Maintenance and Safety
Maintaining and operating a rotary plow requires careful attention to safety and regular maintenance practices. Here are some maintenance and safety tips:
Regular maintenance practices
It is important to check the oil and fuel levels before starting the machine. Regularly checking the spark plugs and air filters can also help maintain the engine’s performance.
Cleaning and lubricating the machine’s moving parts, such as the impeller and auger, can help prevent wear and tear.
Finally, it is important to store the machine properly during the off-season and winterize it if necessary.
Safety precautions when using a rotary plow
Before using a rotary plow, it is important to read the manual and follow all safety instructions. Wearing protective clothing, such as safety goggles and gloves, is also recommended.
It is important to keep a safe distance from people and objects while operating the machine. It is also important to avoid operating the machine on steep slopes or surfaces with debris, such as rocks or sticks.
Proper storage and winterization
Storing the machine properly during the off-season is important to ensure it is ready for use when the winter season comes around.
Proper winterization includes draining the fuel and oil, cleaning the machine, and storing it in a dry and secure location.
Conclusion
Rotary plows offer an efficient and effective solution to heavy snowfalls. They are versatile in different terrains and snow conditions and offer several advantages compared to other snow removal equipment.
Proper maintenance practices and safety precautions are important for the machine’s longevity and safety.
With a rotary plow, snow removal can be done quickly and efficiently, making it safer for everyone to move around.
Meet Handal Indonesia, an enthusiast, and expert in the world of heavy machinery. With years of experience under his belt, Handal Indonesia has a deep understanding of the workings of all types of heavy equipment and machinery.
