Despite being widely used, outrigger pads for cranes are not without risk. These dangerous tools need careful handling and can damage other equipment. Many mobile crane accidents occur as a result of improper set-up of outrigger pads. Inadequate cribbing beneath the outrigger pads can also cause an unsafe situation. To avoid such a scenario, check the ground conditions before setting up an outrigger pad. Moreover, it is important to adjust the outrigger weight to compensate for compactness of the ground. This is critical for achieving a level position and a proper support of the crane.
Outrigger pads come in various shapes and materials. Choose the right one according to the duty and safety requirements. TIMCOLITE outrigger pads have rope handles made of 1″ tubing. Each pad can support 62,000 pounds of load. Their durability resists warping and breaking, and they are also resistant to bird baths. Besides, they can be customized with your company logo, part numbers, and custom engraving.
High-density polyethylene outrigger pads from Mytee Products are made of the safest synthetic material. HDP pads weigh approximately 30 pounds for a 2×2′ pad. HDP pads are highly resistant to water, chemical, and mechanical elements, making them far safer than wooden outrigger pads. As such, HDP outrigger pads can withstand thousands of pounds of force without risking any damage. Get in touch with Prime Tech Prime to purchase outrigger pads.
Outrigger pads must be properly sized, and the proper placement is essential to avoid costly damages. While installing outrigger pads, it is important to inspect the ground conditions before starting lifting operations. If the outrigger pads start to bend or drive into the ground, then you should stop lifting the crane until the ground bearing pressure is adequate. It is best to replace the outrigger pads once they show signs of failure.
The importance of using outrigger crane pads cannot be overstated. They will ensure the safety of your employees and the equipment you are using. These outrigger pads can be used on various types of equipment and provide a more stable base for the equipment. The outrigger pads will help you reduce the overall pressure on the ground and reduce the risk of a crane tipping over. When you need crane outrigger pads, contact Cope Plastics.
While wood outrigger pads are inexpensive and easy to source, they also have significant disadvantages. Industrial plastic outrigger pads are made of tough polymer known as UHMW. While UHMW outrigger pads are durable and lightweight, they still don’t compare to wood outrigger pads. Wooden outrigger pads are susceptible to damage because of exposure to groundwater, which contains road salts, gasoline, and motor oil.