Why Plastic Outrigger Pads Are Essential For Crane Operations
If you’re in the market for new outrigger pads for your boat, you’ll want to consider engineered plastic cribbing. This type of outrigger pad is lightweight, durable, and easy to install, and unlike wood-based outriggers, it will not absorb moisture or swell over time. Plus, it won’t rot, rust, or degrade. What’s more, plastic is also safer than wood.
In addition to being durable, outrigger pads also need to be sized for the equipment they are being used on. Ideally, you should purchase a set that fits the largest outrigger that you own. You can use the same outrigger pad on smaller boats as well, just make sure that it fits the size of the outrigger properly. Pads come in a variety of sizes, ranging from fifteen by 15 inches to four by four feet. The larger they are, the more stability they’ll provide. Also, it’s important to consider the type of surface that the outrigger pads will be used on, as the larger they are, the greater the amount of stability they’ll provide. Get bigfoot outrigger pad now.
Another important feature of outrigger pads is that they are easy to transport. For this reason, they should be lightweight and feature handles that are clearly visible, especially on larger outrigger pads. A high-quality pad should also have a handle made of safety orange, which will help the user maintain a firm hold while maneuvering the outrigger. And last but not least, make sure you choose a durable product that won’t tear or deform easily.
In summary, outrigger pads are essential for crane operations. They help prevent damage to the surface while adding support to the crane. Plastic outrigger pads weigh only about one tenth as much as steel outrigger pads and will not rust or splinter like wood. The best part? They’re available in custom-designed shapes, making it possible to make outrigger pads for almost any equipment. For your next outrigger pad project, check out Polymershapes today.
In addition to being durable, UHMWPE outrigger pads are also highly impact-resistant. This thermoplastic outrigger pad material is designed to flex over rough terrain and prevent the mat from breaking under pressure. Wood outrigger pads are also susceptible to cracking and swelling from moisture absorption, which weakens the mat and decreases its service life. By contrast, UHMWPE outrigger pads last much longer than wood outrigger pads. Hence, you won’t have to replace the leg pads every few years.
While plywood outrigger pads are cheaper and more accessible, they can be vulnerable to water and other chemicals. Because they are porous, they can absorb chemicals and liquids, making them unreliable and expensive. Another disadvantage to wood outrigger pads is that they tend to be heavier, and thus, offer less safety. Therefore, it’s better to opt for plastic outrigger pads if you can afford it. So, choose wisely!
While outrigger pads may appear simple, they are not. A good one will be at least three times the size of your foot. You should also make sure that the float area is at least three times larger than the foot size. If it is too small, the point load will be applied on just one or two boards, resulting in uneven weight distribution. A large float area means the weight is distributed evenly across the pad.
When purchasing outrigger pads, remember to choose one with a high breaking strength. Most of these types of outrigger pads are designed to last for many years, and they can even outlast the outrigger itself. Shop bigfoot outrigger pads now from Prime Tech Pads. The best part is that you don’t have to replace them as often as steel pads. They’ll still perform when the weather gets harsh. And they’re lightweight compared to steel outrigger pads.
The advantages of industrial plastic outrigger pads over wood outrigger pads include their weight and durability. In addition to weighing half the amount of wood, synthetic outrigger pads don’t add weight due to moisture. Lastly, wood is porous, and it will absorb any liquid you apply to it, including groundwater and potential contaminants, such as road salt, gasoline, and motor oil. In both cases, the synthetic outrigger pads are stronger and more resilient to the elements.