Why You Need to Use Outrigger Mats
What is an Outrigger Mat?
An outrigger mat or pad is a pad that is larger than the outrigger itself, made out of a strong material. They typically comprise of dense polyethylene which is a synthetic material that is highly durable, water-resistant, and lightweight. The outrigger mat evenly distributes the weight of the outriggers on the ground. The larger surface area prevents the machine from sinking into soil or damaging hard floors.
The use of outrigger mats also provides extra stabilisation for heavy machinery as there is extra grip for the outriggers compared to some surfaces. The prevention of the outriggers sinking also means the machine will not lean to one side.
Types of Outrigger Mats
Our UNIC Mini Spider Cranes have four outriggers – meaning you’ll need at least four outrigger mats. Below we have listed all the different mat types that you can choose from.
Wood
The use of wood sheets may seem like a cheap and convenient solution when you need an outrigger pad, but it can come with many drawbacks. If using wood readily available to you you will have to assess the capacity it can handle each time it is used, unless it is a purchased wood outrigger mat with a published pre-calculated capacity. This will take up time.
Wood outrigger pads can also be prone to breaking due to their inflexibility and their porosity which causes water to weaken the pads. The porosity can also cause the wood to become heavy after use in wet conditions which is not practical when needing to move the pads around site.
Steel
While steel is strong it is also heavy, adding unnecessary weight under a heavy machine. The heavier pads mean that more workers are needed to shift them between locations. As steel is expensive it also means your outrigger pads will be. This means you’re paying more for the same or worse performance.
Polyethylene
These synthetic pads are easy to lift and are non-porous, so you won’t need to worry about waterlogging. The long-lasting material means you will rarely have to replace the pads, saving you money in the long run. They are also more widely available so it is guaranteed you will find one that is suited to your needs.
What Size Outrigger Mat Do You Need?
Mat size requirements can be calculated yourself but if you do not have experience in this then we would recommend you avoid it and ask a professional instead. GGR Group’s experts can assist you with accurately choosing the best outrigger mat for you. We also offer crane operator hire and lift plans where needed.
You can speak to our team by giving us a call or contacting us here.
Outrigger Mat Top Tips
- You should only refer to published values when selecting a suitable outrigger mat when the lift is simple i.e., the soil is not multi-layered, the ground is not sloped, not above a basement, etc.
- The outrigger should be in the centre of the outrigger mat.
- Suitability of outrigger mats should be assessed repeatedly if ground/weather conditions change i.e., rain, snow, earthquake.
- Consider the shape of your outrigger mats when choosing them – round and square mats can handle different pressures based on their size.
All our spider cranes have outriggers so will likely need outrigger mats. As the European master dealer for Europe, we’re equipped to help you choose what outrigger mats will be best for you. Contact us by clicking here.
