Cost Reduction of Arm Cross Bar of Wheel Loader through Value Engineering

This paper presents a methodology that can be used for cost reduction of any product using the fundamental principles of Value Engineering. The paper specifically focuses on assembly called Arm Cross Bar (ACB) which is a sub-assembly of earth moving equipment called Wheel Loader. Wheel loader is a heavy equipment often used in construction and mining application, primarily used to transfer material from stockpiles to trucks, or transport material around job sites. Using value analysis tools, ACB was analysed and design alternatives were identified, that can reduce the weight as well as cost of the assembly without compromising the functional parameters. This will help the company to offer the product at a very competitive price [i, ii]. This will enhance customer delight, increase in sales of product and very importantly reduce the carbon foot print.