A grader is a piece of heavy equipment that features one or two long blades to create a flat and firm surface. The surface should be well graded, either for a base layer for a road or for a dirt road. Most graders consist of three axles, an engine and a cabin, however, different types of graders have few differences. A trained and qualified person that knows how to operate a grader is called a grader operator. The grader operator must know how to use a grader properly in order to get the best grading results possible. Also, the grader operator must be trained to use safety techniques, properly maintain the grader, etc. A license or certificate is also required to operate a grader.
As mentioned, the graders feature three axles: one in front for stability and steering and two in rear for moving the grader forward and for stability. Most graders have their wheels at front attached to a long boom, and a blade that is positioned between the front and the rear axles. The blade of graders is the part that moves materials to grade the soil and it can easily swivel and tilt in all directions to accomplish the grading. Grader operators must know when and how to move the blade properly to create a smooth and fine surface to ensure a great support for any type of construction structure.
One of the toughest challenges of the grader operators is using the graders improperly to create the desired grade, particularly on uneven surfaces. Graders are able to level surfaces, as many roadways are not flat, especially around corners and curves. So, the grader operators must know how to use the graders to create such grades. One of the most important component of this type of training is properly positioning the front wheels of the grader, which can either pivot or sway to get the proper grade of the surface.
During winter, grader operators often use their graders for snow removal. The graders are used as snow removal equipment when special snow plowing equipment is not available. However, in some countries, the graders are specifically used for snow removal, although generally this is their secondary function. The primary function of graders is for construction purposes. Also, the graders might be used on farms or ranches to even some soil before planting. For this use, farmers should seek professional advice and if needed, to obtain a license to operate a grader.
