Crane mats provide support for heavy equipment and help to prevent ground indentation and damage. They are used in marshes, swamps, boggy areas and on uneven ground.
To ensure the right crane mat is chosen, experts use a calculation that incorporates force, pressure, and ground bearing capacity. The size of the crane will also impact what type of mat is required.
Material
Crane mats are made of heavy, sturdy materials like timber. They create a solid work surface that helps prevent cranes and other heavy machinery from sinking into soft ground, which can damage them and cause soil erosions. The material used to make a crane mat also determines how much weight it can support. For instance, if you’re looking for a mat to support a large crane with a high ground bearing pressure, it may be better to go with steel crane mats instead of wood ones.
The type of material a crane mat is made of also affects how long it will last. While some mats are only good for one project, others can last up to five years or more. When choosing a crane mat, look for a high-quality one that’s durable and can withstand the harsh conditions at a construction site.
Another factor to consider when selecting a crane mat is the stiffness of the material. For example, wooden crane mats are strong and stiff, while steel ones are more flexible. You can also choose a composite mat that combines different types of materials to achieve the desired stiffness.
Whether you’re working on a commercial, civil or renewable energy project, a crane mat is an essential tool to have in place. They help protect the environment, prevent damage to sensitive areas, and save on ground restoration costs. Additionally, they prevent bacteria from being carried by vehicles, which can then transfer to other areas.
Depending on the type of terrain you’re working in, there are a few different options for crane matting. Rubber and fiberglass are great choices for extra-heavy loads, while plastic is ideal for light to medium loads. You can even get custom-made matting to fit your specific needs.
Regardless of the type of crane matting you choose, it’s important to take the time to research the various options available to you. Doing so will ensure you’re getting the best crane mats for your project and the most cost-effective solution for your business. Good crane mats can make the difference between a successful project and one that’s riddled with costly delays.
Stability
Crane mats are essential for keeping heavy machinery stable on the ground during construction projects. They help to prevent equipment from sinking into mud or shifting on uneven terrain, and they also protect the environment by preventing unwanted cross-contamination (when equipment picks up bacteria and fungi from one area and transfers them to another).
The different types of crane mats are made from a variety of materials, including wood and timber, rubber, fiberglass, and plastic. Each type has its own unique benefits, but the material you choose depends on the nature of your project. For example, timber crane mats are ideal for use on wet and muddy conditions. They are also durable enough to support the weight of heavy machinery for longer periods of time than other types of mats.
While the stability of a crane mat is important, it is also crucial to consider its size and placement. For example, outrigger pads should be large enough to distribute the load over a larger surface area, which will help to prevent ground failure and damage to equipment. They should also be placed centrally on the mat to avoid uneven stress and deformation.
In addition to enhancing safety and efficiency on construction sites, crane mats can help reduce costs by eliminating the need for expensive ground restoration at the end of a project. They also minimize delays and downtime, allowing construction teams to meet deadlines and stay on budget.
In addition to providing stability, crane mats also provide a solid work foundation and can be used on any type of ground. They are ideal for wet, muddy, and sandy areas where traditional concrete or steel mats would not be suitable. They are also useful on sloped surfaces or in stream crossings. They are also durable and can be easily moved from one location to the next. Additionally, they are environmentally friendly and can be used again after the project is complete. They are also made of recycled materials, including post-consumer High Density Polyethylene (detergent bottles and milk jugs) and post-industrial glass filled PP.
Durability
The durability of a crane mat is crucial for the safety of equipment and workers. If the crane mat is not durable enough, it will flex under heavy loads, which can lead to instability and tipping of the crane. To avoid this, choose a crane mat with a high rigidity and strong design. The correct mat will also reduce the amount of pressure on the ground and extend the lifespan of the equipment.
A variety of materials are used to make crane mats, including timber, rubber, fiberglass, and plastic. Each type of material has its own benefits and disadvantages. For example, rubber crane mats provide excellent grip and are perfect for wet work areas. They are also easy to move around and can be used with skid steers and track excavators. Fiberglass crane mats are ideal for extra-heavy loads, while plastic crane mats are great for light-duty work.
When choosing a crane mat, be sure to consider the length and width of the work area and the equipment being used. The mats should be long enough to cover the entire working area and wide enough to provide stable support for the machinery. They should also be durable enough to resist damage and wear from traffic.
Choosing the right crane mats can help you reduce operational costs and improve safety on site. In addition to lowering the risk of ground instability and tipping, a good crane mat will be durable enough to withstand harsh environmental conditions. To ensure you are getting the best quality crane mats, look for a company that offers a warranty and provides engineering data for their products.
In addition to reducing the risk of tipping, crane mats can help protect natural habitats and sensitive environments. They prevent vehicles from tracking through delicate terrain, preventing cross-contamination and damaging the soil. This is particularly important in wet landscapes, such as marshes and swamps.
If you’re looking for a crane mat that will be able to handle the harshest of working conditions, CraneMats.co is the best option. They are designed to be stronger and last longer than other types of crane mats, making them an economical choice for heavy construction projects. In addition, they can be easily moved around the site with skid steers and track excavators, minimizing labor time.
Cost
Crane mats are large and strong platforms that offer a stable base to support heavy machinery. They distribute the weight of the machinery evenly to avoid ground sinking and soil erosion. This makes them an important investment for renewable energy projects, especially when working on soft or wet soils. Experts specializing in crane mats help their clients choose the right mat for their equipment and project needs.
The cost of a crane mat depends on the size and material, as well as its durability. For example, wood mats are easy to customize and take less time to make than other materials, but they may not be as durable against the outdoor elements. Composite crane mats are more expensive but can withstand more wear and tear. They also require less maintenance than wood, which can be damaged by the weather.
Another factor to consider when choosing a crane mat is its ability to handle the desired amount of weight. It is also important to know how much terrain the crane will be traveling over, and what type of ground it will be on. For example, a wetland area requires a different crane mat than an industrial site. The crane mat should be able to cross the wetland area and serve as a bridge between more stable areas.
Lastly, it is important to know the size of the crane that will be using the mats. Choosing the right size is influenced by multiple factors, including the weight of the equipment, the terrain, and the average load per day.
Once you have determined the size of your crane, you can decide if you want to rent or buy a crane mat. Rentals are a great option for short-term projects, as they are usually more affordable than buying crane mats. However, if you plan to use crane mats for an extended period of time, it may be more economical to invest in your own.
When buying a crane mat, it is also important to check the quality of the used mats. A licensed grader will assign a crane mat a grade of A, B, or C, depending on its condition and previous wear and tear. A grade A crane mat is like-new and has minimal wear, while a C crane mat is significantly worn and may even have missing timbers or bolts.
