Cape picks HDPS mats
14 February 2018Industrial support specialists Cape has invested in two types of crane mat from leading spreader plate supplier Outriggerpads.
Weighing 214kg each, the company’s 1.5m square polyethylene pads are considerably lighter than equivalent sized steel pads, but have a greater load bearing capability, of up to 200t. The material adapts to the contours of uneven terrain, but will spring back to its original shape after use. Metal bars on each edge allow lifting hooks to be attached.
Cape have also invested in an interlocking Multi Mat system from Outriggerpads. Operators can stack the mats in various configurations, depending on space and load requirements. The interlocking system ensures that there are no gaps between the mats, improving set up speed while keeping the system sufficiently light weight to be set up by hand. With six configurations offering load capacities of 75 to 160t, the system is designed to support a wide range of mobile cranes.
Tony Brennan, structural steel and mechanical superintendent for Cape, said: “Having two different types of spreader plate helps to optimise our productivity while maintaining the highest possible safety standards.
“The 1.5m crane mats are very quick and easy to lift and position with a fork lift truck. However, there are some areas where there is not enough room for a fork lift to manoeuvre. This is when we benefit from the flexibility of the interlocking Multi Mats, as they are easy to carry and position by hand, and we can set them up in different configurations.”
Both the crane mats and the Multi-Mat system are made from high-density polyethylene (HDPE). The material is resistant to water, oil and chemicals - and unlike metal or wooden spreader plates, there is no risk of corrosion or splintering. Outrigger offers pads with vertical load bearing capacities up to 350t.
