CRANE MATS Ӏ SECTOR SPOTLIGHT
Outrigger Pads, of Kidderminster, UK, specialises in High-Density Polyethylene (HDPE) spreader plates, outrigger pads, and crane mats. “Our pads won't splinter or
corrode and have a very high resistance to vertical pressure,” says its outrigger specialist Sally Eades. “Coupled with the fact that it is waterproof, this significantly extends the products’ working lives compared to pads made of wood or metal. The material also has a degree of flexibility.” And flexibility is important. A totally rigid pad, when set on uneven ground, will transmit all its load onto the few highest points of that ground, which may then compress or break. This rather defeats the original object of spreading the load. “HDPE pads adapt to the contours of uneven terrain,” she says, “but spring back
to their original shape after use.” Another advantage is that HDPE pads can be manufactured round, square or with recesses built-in to fit the shape of the outriggers. The material is lightweight, easy
Multi Mat
outrigger pads from UK company Outrigger Pads
to handle, and has excellent load- bearing capacities. Pads come with rope handles or with integrated steel bar handles; and, for safe transport and stowage, a galvanised stowage holster can be bolted on to the crane to carry them. Outrigger Pads also offers a Multi Mat system, which is modular. The mats have tongue and groove edges which slide into each other. When stacked in layers, with a circular pad on the top, the weight of the crane forces the mats into the correct position and eliminates gaps. DICA of Iowa, USA is a
family-owned and operated company that specialises in making
high-performance engineered outrigger and crane pads. CEO Kris Koberg summarises the characteristics of each material. “Wood pads are prone to rot, splintering, and degradation, especially when exposed to moisture. This reduces their lifespan. “Steel pads are robust but
susceptible to rust and corrosion, particularly in harsh environments. Regular maintenance is required to keep them in good condition. “Synthetic outrigger pads do
not rot, splinter, or rust, so last longer with minimal maintenance. They are more expensive but their durability can lead to significant cost savings over time.” Several pads can be laid on top of each other for added strength but it is important to understand, Koberg says, that stacked materials will not perform as well as a
20 CRANES TODAY
Page 1 |
Page 2 |
Page 3 |
Page 4 |
Page 5 |
Page 6 |
Page 7 |
Page 8 |
Page 9 |
Page 10 |
Page 11 |
Page 12 |
Page 13 |
Page 14 |
Page 15 |
Page 16 |
Page 17 |
Page 18 |
Page 19 |
Page 20 |
Page 21 |
Page 22 |
Page 23 |
Page 24 |
Page 25 |
Page 26 |
Page 27 |
Page 28 |
Page 29 |
Page 30 |
Page 31 |
Page 32 |
Page 33 |
Page 34 |
Page 35 |
Page 36 |
Page 37 |
Page 38 |
Page 39 |
Page 40 |
Page 41 |
Page 42 |
Page 43 |
Page 44 |
Page 45 |
Page 46 |
Page 47 |
Page 48 |
Page 49 |
Page 50 |
Page 51 |
Page 52 |
Page 53 |
Page 54 |
Page 55
