Need Some CTL Training? Consider the Simulator Pack from CM Labs
Did you know that there’s no training required to operate a compact track loader? Crazy, right? While just about anyone can hop in the cab and get going, it doesn’t necessarily mean they should. Potential operators should seek out training opportunities to avoid accidents and to learn how to use the machine efficiently.
“Because of its versatility and price, the CTL is often rented by inexperienced operators resulting in a high rate of accidents, usually involving machine tipping,” says Alan Limoges, product manager, construction, for CM Labs Simulations . “With no official certification required to run a CTL, operators likely have not had proper training, resulting in underperforming machinery, poor cycle times and higher fossil fuel consumption.”
One training avenue available is the Compact Track Loader (CTL) Simulator Training Pack from CM Labs. It runs on the company’s three hardware platforms: the motion-enabled Vortex Edge Max, the fully immersive Vortex Advantage and the desktop Vortex Edge Plus. The Training Pack provides five separate exercises, with each taking approximately 15 to 30 minutes to complete. The Vortex Simulators are designed to work interchangeably with industry-standard control systems and can be easily swapped out to adapt to a specific operator’s needs.
“Our CTL simulation training is the only simulator on the market that accurately replicates machine stability — providing real-world training opportunities to help reduce the risk of accidents,” says Christa Fairchild, product marketing manager, construction, at CM Labs. “The simulated machine behavior helps operators gain a better feel for the impact of gear shifting and throttle use, improving lifting capacity and cycle times, ultimately reducing production costs.”
The Compact Track Loader Simulator Training Pack features progressive learning exercises designed to gradually build skill and confidence:
- Controls familiarization
- Trailer loading and unloading
- Load handling
- Stockpiling
- Live attachment change (bucket and fork attachments)
- Excavating and grading
- Truck loading
- Skills challenge
- Sandbox
Although trainees can complete most of the CTL exercises in less than 30 minutes, they can find additional practice in the sandbox.
“A lot of our customers appreciate the longer versions as they also work on focus and attention, which is very relevant in construction,” says Fairchild. “The open world, also known as the sandbox, has no time limits. You can use this program to test out all the skills you have learned in the prior exercises, without time constraints.”
Through the CTL Simulator Training Pack, instructors can access real-time key performance metrics such as safety violations and cycle time efficiency. Instructors also can generate objective reports based on customizable scoring parameters and review against benchmarks or past training sessions.
Limoges adds, “The Smart Training Technology we have embedded in every one of our simulation training packs ensures that training is based on real-world parameters, reinforcing good operator practices, for both novices and experts, and making sure you have the best simulation training tools to get your operators working in as safe and an efficient manner as possible.”
Compact track loaders are the most popular category of compact equipment in America. Learn why with loads of track loader features right here.
