The right crane mats ensure safe work on sensitive terrains. There are various types for specific needs: standard mats are versatile, transition mats level uneven ground, swamp mats work on soft terrain, and rig mats suit heavy-duty applications.
Mostly used by construction companies, they help keep heavy machinery stable and prevent the ground from getting churned up while working on it. They’re also resold once they are no longer needed, which allows contractors to recoup some of their initial investment.
Durability
Crane mats are designed to withstand heavy machinery and challenging working conditions. They provide a stable base that helps cranes and other equipment operate more efficiently, allowing them to save time by moving materials quickly and accurately. This efficiency reduces the risk of machine downtime and ensures projects are completed on schedule and within budget.
Another way crane mats can save construction companies time is by reducing the amount of time it takes to move and reinstall them after each use. This allows them to complete more work in less time, reducing the overall cost of each project. Additionally, crane mats help protect the ground on which they are installed from damage caused by repeated traffic and vibration. By distributing the weight of the machinery evenly, crane mats protect the soil and prevent sinkage or shifting of the ground, which could lead to costly restoration work later on.
While the durability of crane mats depends on a variety of factors, it is typically best to invest in high-quality wood products that are rated for strength and density. This ensures that the timber crane mats are able to support the required load and can be used for the specified duration.
High-quality timber crane mats also last longer if they are transported and installed correctly. Careless handling of crane mats can lead to drops and accidents that will shorten their lifespan. It is also important to make sure that the crane mats are matched to the job at hand, as using the wrong type of mat will wear them out more quickly.
Oak timber crane mats have traditionally been the industry standard, but it is important to remember that it takes 40 years for an oak tree to mature enough to be harvested. This is why the majority of crane mats sold today are made from mixed hardwoods that have a shorter lifespan.
A new option in the market is composite crane mats, which are a great alternative to timber mats for several reasons. These mats are fabricated from high-performance woods that are characterized by a strong, durable surface that is resistant to impact and abrasions. They also feature an innovative hardware design that is value engineered for these mats, which provides the stiffness needed to distribute loads evenly and prevent sinkage.
Installation
When it comes to installing crane mats, there are multiple things that need to be taken into consideration. This includes ensuring that they are of the right size for your project, as well as knowing what type of ground surface you will be working on and the weight of the equipment that will be using them. It is also important to know how they are going to be installed, whether it be by hand or with the use of machinery.
Choosing the right crane mats for your specific needs can be easier than you might think. In fact, finding the right crane mat can make a huge difference in employee safety and overall efficiency on the job site. The best way to determine what type of mat you will need is to consult with an expert. They will be able to help you calculate the right dimensions for your mat, based on the size of the equipment being used and the type of ground it will be working on.
The material that a crane mat is made out of will also influence how long it will last. Different types of crane mats are available, including timber and composite. Timber crane mats are often the preferred option, as they offer a high level of durability and reliability. They are also a renewable resource, which means that they will be easier to replenish than other materials such as fiberglass or plastic.
Composite crane mats are designed to be a lighter alternative to wood crane mats, but they do not sacrifice quality or strength. They are engineered and tested to ensure that they can withstand the allowable ground bearing pressures. For this reason, they are a great choice for projects that require temporary support.
When it comes to installing your crane mats, it is important to avoid leaving gaps between them. This can lead to safety issues and environmental damage. Typically, crane mats are installed on site by skid steers or track excavators. Once the mats have been put into place, they should be topped with gravel or sand to prevent them from sliding down.
Maintenance
Crane mats provide a stable base for heavy machinery and equipment to prevent soil compaction, rutting, and damage to pavement and surrounding structures. They also enable more efficient load placement and streamlined movement of materials. This allows builders and construction companies to complete projects more quickly, saving time and money. The stability and safety provided by crane mats are especially important on sites with unstable ground or rocky terrain, where cranes can easily tip over if not supported properly.
When choosing crane mats, it’s crucial to assess the material and build quality to ensure they can withstand the demands of your project. Whether you’re using wood, steel, or composite mats, they need to be strong enough to support a heavy load without compromising safety. They should also be able to withstand moisture, chemicals, and other environmental factors that could negatively impact the structure.
The lifespan of crane mats depends on how well they are maintained and treated throughout the duration of a project. They must be cleaned regularly to remove dirt, debris, and harmful residue from the environment and machines used on them. It’s also a good idea to inspect them before and after each use, as they may have sustained some damage during the course of a job that needs to be addressed prior to their next installation.
If you’re using timber crane mats, you should treat them with special care to avoid rotting or insect infestations. This will help them last for a long time and allow you to get the most out of your investment. Additionally, if you’re using composite crane mats or other types of matting, they should be stored and handled carefully to avoid any damage that could shorten their lifespan.
Purchasing or renting crane mats can be a great option depending on the scale and duration of your project. Renting can be more cost-effective when diverse mat sizes are needed intermittently, while purchasing may provide a better return on investment for longer-term uses. At Mavrik Solutions, we offer both options to accommodate our customers’ needs and budgets.
Transport
A crucial element of the construction process, crane mats are the nearly invisible foundational heroes that ensure safety, efficiency, and longevity for construction projects. They bridge the gap between a heavy load and the sometimes delicate floor of construction sites, preventing damage that can result in costly repairs, project delays, and poor working conditions.
There are several factors that can affect how long crane mats last, including the material used to make them and how often they are used. Generally, timber crane mats have a shorter lifespan than those made from composite materials. They also wear out faster if they’re not used properly or if they’re employed on jobs with high levels of stress.
As a result, it’s important to draw up a plan for where the mats will be placed on your job site, so that they are used in the most efficient way possible. This can help reduce the amount of time your crane or other heavy equipment spends driving on a mat, which in turn will extend its lifespan.
In addition, it’s vital that you take the time to inspect your crane mats regularly and repair any damage as soon as it’s discovered. If you don’t, it could lead to further damage on the site and potentially serious injuries for workers.
Another factor that impacts how long crane mats last is the quality of the material they are made from. Choosing a durable, high-quality crane mat can significantly extend its lifespan.
The majority of crane mats on the market today are made from either timber or a combination of materials. Timber crane mats are a popular choice because they’re affordable and versatile. However, they can be vulnerable to water and other environmental contaminants that may cause them to break down over time. As a result, it’s essential that you choose a quality timber crane mat from an established supplier.
At Eiffel Trading, we offer a variety of different types of crane mats to suit all kinds of jobs and budgets. We have both new and used timber crane mats for sale, as well as a range of other heavy civil materials and equipment, such as used access trestles and brand-new wide flange beams. Our team can provide a free, no-obligation quote for your next project, and we’re happy to help you choose the best options for your needs.
