Choosing Outrigger Crane Pads
Outrigger crane pads are important parts of your equipment. It is essential to use high-quality outrigger pads to protect your crane and keep it stable. A good brand will customize outrigger pads to meet your specific needs. Look for ISO 9001:2008 certified manufacturers that have 30 years of experience in the plastics industry. They will provide you with top-quality products and excellent customer service. They also have engineers on staff who will help you determine which type of outrigger pad you need.
The outrigger pad should distribute the load evenly over a large surface area while also supporting the crane. It should be stiff enough to prevent the crane from shifting out of level. The right combination of strength and safety is important. Outrigger pads should be able to meet the needs of different types of equipment. To make your job easier, here are some tips on choosing the right outrigger pad:
High-density polyethylene (HDP) outrigger pads are among the safest outrigger pads available. They absorb thousands of pounds of force and weigh about 30 pounds for a 2×2′ pad. HDP outrigger pads also last a long time and can withstand harsh weather conditions. The material is non-conductive and abrasion-resistant. This makes them a better choice than wooden outrigger pads.
Fiberglass outrigger pads are made of the same material as MUD-TRAKS(r). They’re lighter than wooden outrigger pads. They also won’t warp or dry rot. This means that you don’t have to worry about rusting or birds living on your outrigger crane pads. The durable material of fiberglass outrigger pads keeps them from getting damaged or becoming bird baths. In addition, they’re a permanent support for the outrigger.
Wood outrigger pads are easy to source and inexpensive. But they do have several drawbacks. UHMW (ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene) outrigger pads are highly durable and resistant to damage. Wood outrigger pads are often exposed to groundwater, which can contain traces of gasoline, motor oil, and road salts. If not replaced, wood outrigger pads can become rotted or unusable.
Engineered outrigger pads offer optimum stability and safety. These products are easy to install, and some are made from reclaimed wood pallets. While these outrigger pads are cheap, they do have objective disadvantages. Some are easily damaged by large equipment while others are more durable. These outrigger pads provide stability and more space for workers to react to potential hazards. And they don’t need to be expensive. Shop outrigger pads for cranes from Prime Tech Pads.
Outrigger pads come in many shapes and sizes. You can choose from large square pads or small round pads. You can roll a round pad into position by yourself, while square pads require two people. You should consider the number of employees in your crew when choosing the right outrigger pad for your crane. They also come in different materials, including wood, steel, and composite plastic. So you can find the perfect one for your job.
Aside from being sturdy and durable, outrigger pads also help you avoid accidents. Moreover, they help you adhere to health and safety regulations. Because they protect your equipment from being damaged by heavy machinery, outrigger pads are necessary parts of a crane. In addition, they are used on vehicles and machines with outriggers, too. And if you’re using them to lift heavy objects, make sure to invest in one.
It is important to remember that crane counterweights have a weight limit, so they should be lightweight. The ground can only withstand so much pressure before it begins to crumble. It is vital to establish stable ground for your crane. Outrigger pads extend your crane’s footprint and displace the pressure to the ground. That way, you can set up the crane on the best ground possible. This will help you to get the job done faster, safer, and more efficiently.
Before putting the outrigger crane on the ground, you must inspect the pad and its materials for damage. Check the pad for tears and damages. You can use the roll or plate-proof test to check for material integrity. If any material is showing signs of wear, it’s time to replace it. In some cases, wood becomes damaged due to UV light, moisture, insects, and previous use. If you’re concerned about the state of the outrigger crane pads, be sure to purchase new ones from reputable manufacturers.