Dump trucks are special-purpose construction vehicles used for high-capacity transportation and unloading of materials in construction, mining, and infrastructure projects. Thanks to their dump mechanism, they can unload their loads at specific angles.

Historical Development

Although the sources do not provide a direct historical narrative, the technological evolution of dump trucks has progressed in parallel with the development of modern construction equipment. In particular, with the advancement of microcontroller-based dump warning and information systems, the operational safety and monitoring capabilities of these vehicles have been significantly improved.

Technical Structure

Dump trucks are produced in two main configurations: rigid chassis and articulated.

• Articulated dump trucks: Provide high maneuverability in difficult conditions. Engine power ranges from 300-450 HP, operating weight from 45-70 tons, and load capacity from 24-37 m³.
• Rigid frame haul trucks: Designed for heavy terrain conditions. Engine power ranges from 450-1200 HP, operating weight from 65-170 tons, and load capacity from 35-95 m³

Areas of Use

Dump trucks are widely used in the following fields:

• Construction sector: Transportation of soil, rock, and fill materials; road construction; building foundation works.
• Mining sector: Transportation of ore, minerals, rocks, and soil.
• Dam and port construction: Transport of large volumes of materials in heavy terrain conditions.

^{Dump Truck (AI-Generated Image)}

Technological Developments

A computer-aided and microcontroller-based embedded system developed at Hitit University enables real-time measurement of the chassis and dump body’s X-Y axis tilt angles in dump trucks.

This system provides:

• Real-time warnings to the operator,
• Prevention of potential rollover and collision accidents,
• Data recording on an SD card, allowing it to function as a black box.

Operator Training

In Türkiye, training for operating dump trucks (rigid frame haul trucks) is conducted under the Directive on Construction Equipment Driver Training Courses issued by the Ministry of National Education.

Upon successful completion of the training, operators receive a Construction Equipment Operator Authorization Certificate

The training focuses on:

• Theoretical knowledge: Loading, transportation, unloading techniques, safety rules.
• Practical training: Controlled driving and dump body operation on actual vehicles.