Each grader cutting edge is designed to perform better for different jobs and different conditions. Sometimes one blade can't do everything you want it to, but most of the blade's performance depends on the operator's technique. Learn why you should study how to operate your set of grader blade cutting edges before you hit the road.
The Success of a Grader Cutting Edge is 99% Operator Technique
The biggest mistake people make is being uneducated on the proper way to use the grader cutting edge they are using. Road grading is not a one technique fits all job. The wear life and success of your blade is 99% the way you use it. Before you get out there and start working on your roads, make sure you take the time to learn how to use your grader blade. Take a look at online resources for each blade or call your dealer or the manufacturer directly. They should be willing to teach you how to use their product properly.
Avoid Bad Habits with the Grader Cutting Edge
It's easy to fall into bad habits, but it is important to keep the proper technique when you are using your grader blade cutting edges. If you aren't happy with how your edges are performing, there is also the chance you have been taught the wrong technique. Whether you have been trained the wrong way or have naturally fallen into bad habits, make sure to learn the right technique again and stick to it. You will be happier in the end when your roads turn out the way you want them to.
Understanding the Crown
Regardless of what grader blade you are running, you have to put a good crown on the road for it to wear well and avoid potholes and washboards. We have seen a lot of people fall into the trap of wanting a rounded road because it simply looks better. The problem is this rounded surface ends up having little to no grade on it towards the middle of the road.
Water will quickly beat the surface down and form potholes and you will often end up with a counter crown in the road. To form a good crown with grader blade cutting edges, think of the middle of the road being a point or a peak. From that peak, both sides should evenly slope away at a 4 - 6% grade. Your final product should have an A-shape with both sides slanting away from the middle to let water run off the road surface rather than pool up. No matter what grader blade cutting edge you are running, you should be putting a proper crown on the road.
Learn how to operate with the Sharq Edge system for gravel and snow by watching this video!