Lightweight FiberMax Crane Pads Improve Transport Options for Crane Companies
Permitting for mobile cranes across states and other jurisdictions can be a frustrating process. Central to the problem are various differences in allowable axles and allowable weights and the definition of non-divisible load. A September 2016 article in American Cranes & Transport, “A permitting dilemma” by Mike Chalmers, provides an overview of the issue and recommendations for finding a solution.
While the article focuses on core crane components—counterweights, block/ball, jibs—it also addresses other removable items such as toolboxes, ladders and outrigger pads. When these items are allowed to remain on the crane, it’s beneficial that those items are as lightweight as possible.
This is a key difference maker for DICA’s FiberMax crane pads, which deliver similar strength and rigidity properties compared to wood and steel crane pads, but at up 70% less weight.
Since being introduced into the market in 2014, users of FiberMax crane pads have consistently reported being able to eliminate one truck and trailer per job. On jobs 50 miles or less, that’s typically a $500 savings each way. For jobs that extend thousands of miles away, users have reported saving $5,000 each way.
A simplified set-up and tear down process is one of several, cost-saving benefits of FiberMax crane pads.
Because of their low weight and engineered rigging hardware, crane owners experience a simplified mobilization process, which results in immediate job cost reduction. The addition of lower transportation costs and quicker set-up and tear down is all part of a lower total cost of ownership analysis, resulting in better long-term margins for users.