In 500 B.C., Athens demonstrated early waste management when it mandated garbage disposal at least one mile from its city walls. In contrast, by 1400, Paris struggled with trash piling up against its gates, even blocking defenses. Today, garbage trucks have become key to keeping cities clean and efficient. These vehicles must be sturdy, as they handle heavy loads and rough conditions daily. Durable materials like steel and reinforced aluminum help them last. The manufacturing process focuses on precision and strength to create reliable, high-performing equipment. The McNeilus Atlantic Series Front Loader offered by Haaker Refuse across Los Angeles, San Diego, Central Valley, and Phoenix, for example, is designed for efficiency and longevity. It exemplifies how modern technology meets practical needs in waste management.
Truck Materials
Most parts of these trucks are made using stainless steel. The sides, roof, ends, and floor consist of steel plates reinforced with steel channels. Manufacturers select steel plates of varying widths to efficiently handle stress in key areas. This approach reduces the truck’s overall weight, allowing it to carry more trash. In addition to the body, the forks and lift arms on front loaders are crafted from thick steel plates. Steel remains the main material for building garbage trucks. Even the torque tubes are constructed using thick, seamless steel tubing. Some trucks feature a head or packer blade to compress trash, also made from steel plates. Slides, however, are designed using a mix of materials, such as steel, bronze shoes, and plastic.
Amrep was one of the first garbage truck manufacturers in North America to incorporate Hardox wear plate steel in their full body shells. This durable steel resists wear and extends the truck’s lifespan, reducing long-term costs. Hardox steel is highly resistant to impacts and dents, which is crucial for garbage trucks operating in tough environments. However, many manufacturers opt for lighter, less expensive materials on the sides. These materials efficiently protect the truck without using the steel required for other components.
Truck Manufacturing
Garbage truck bodies are assembled in a fixed location within the plant rather than on a moving assembly line. Component parts are first fabricated in a machine shop, where they are welded or built into smaller subassemblies. These subassemblies are combined and welded or assembled into the final body. Once completed, the body is lifted and mounted onto a truck chassis. Garbage trucks come in various types, but their manufacturing process follows a few key steps. The first step is creating the body shell. Parts such as the sides, top, rear, and floor are cut, shaped, and bent. Each part is prepared in duplicate before being sent to the subassembly area for welding. Once welded, the truck’s sides are attached to the floor of the body. The front and rear sections are added next, forming a box-like structure. The next stage involves installing subassemblies. Functional components, such as packer blades, hopper covers, lift arms, torque cubes, fork assemblies, and the tailgate, are welded and installed. After this, the body is finished. Electrical wiring is connected to body lights, and the engine is installed in the front panel. At this stage, the structure is finalized. The body and chassis are adjusted and securely bolted to the truck’s frame rails. Before the truck is put into use, all components undergo a quality inspection. The truck’s durability and strength are also tested to ensure it meets performance standards.
McNeilus Atlantic Series Front Loader
When you’re looking for a reliable and high-performing refuse vehicle, the McNeilus Atlantic Series Front Loader is a top choice. Designed for heavy-duty tasks, it’s built to handle challenging routes with ease. The streamlined headframe enhances both performance and serviceability while safeguarding hydraulic and electrical components. Constructed with AR450 abrasion-resistant steel, this front loader is tough and durable. Its lifting arms are rated to handle up to 10,000 pounds, ensuring dependable performance for demanding jobs. The McNeilus CODE controls system offers advanced diagnostics and troubleshooting right at your fingertips, making maintenance simpler and faster. The Excalibre packing cylinders include a patented tool steel shaver and nitrided rods to reduce wear, resist corrosion, and minimize hydraulic contamination. For added versatility, tailgate CNG options are available in 60, 75, 90, and 105 DGE capacities, alongside other CNG configurations. With these features, the McNeilus Atlantic Series Front Loader proves to be an efficient and reliable choice for your toughest tasks.
Building a garbage truck requires precision and long-lasting materials. Manufacturers start with a heavy-duty chassis, adding hydraulic systems, durable steel bodies, and packing components. These features ensure dependable performance and the ability to handle heavy loads consistently. The McNeilus Atlantic Series Front Loader showcases these principles with its sturdy construction, advanced engineering, and smooth operation. Designed for challenging waste management needs, it offers exceptional reliability, high efficiency, and durability that stands up to daily demands. Features like optimized lift capacity and improved fuel efficiency meet the rigorous requirements of the industry while helping reduce operational costs. Considering an upgrade for your fleet? Reach out to Haaker Refuse today. Call us at (909) 598-2706 or send a message to learn more!
