Outrigger on Timber Mat Calculator

Civil Guide

Types of Timber Mats for Outrigger

The different types of timber crane mats, often referred to as crane pads when specifically designed to support the outriggers of cranes and heavy equipment, are essential tools in construction and heavy industry.

These mats provide stability, improve safety, and prevent damage to the ground surface.

  1. Standard Crane Mats: Made from hardwood timbers like oak or fir, standard crane mats are versatile and used in a wide range of projects, including building construction and pipeline installation. Their durability and load-bearing capacity make them ideal for supporting heavy equipment.
  2. Transition Mats: Also known as wedge mats, these are designed to create a smooth, level surface on uneven or sloped terrain. Transition mats are often used at the entry and exit points of construction sites to facilitate the movement of heavy machinery onto and off the site, reducing the risk of machinery becoming stuck or tipping over.
  3. Swamp Mats: Engineered for use in wet or soft ground conditions, such as marshes, swamps, or muddy terrain, swamp mats provide a stable surface for cranes and heavy equipment to traverse without sinking into the soft ground. They are typically larger and thicker than standard crane mats to effectively distribute weight
  4. Rig Mats: Specialized crane mats designed for use in the oil and gas industry and other heavy-duty applications. Rig mats are used to create stable work platforms for drilling rigs, well-service equipment, and other machinery in remote or challenging environments. They are known for their durability and ability to withstand extreme conditions.
  5. Outrigger Pads: While not technically mats, outrigger pads are essential accessories used to support the outriggers of cranes and heavy equipment. These pads are placed under the outriggers to distribute the weight and prevent the equipment from sinking into the ground. Outrigger pads come in various materials, including wood, composite materials, and high-density plastic
  6. Eucalyptus Crane Mats:  Hardwood mats designed to provide ground protection and temporary roadway access for rubber-tyred vehicles. Eucalyptus crane mats are essential for crane hire, indicating their importance in ensuring the stability and safety of crane operations [1]

These timber crane mats and pads are tailored to meet specific project requirements, ensuring safe, efficient, and successful operations across various terrains and environmental challenges.

NOTE - This calculator is only for Timber Mat (It does not assess the ground conditions)

CALCULATION GUIDE

This calculator has been designed to check a Timber Mat under a point load from a crane outrigger. Key information required for the calculation are the following

  • Maximum Point Load (kN)
  • Is there a Lift Plan?
  • Type of Mat to be used
  • Size/Dimension of Outrigger
  • Ground conditions (i.e, firm, loose)
  • Check for any services/retaining walls

The inputs that can be changed are the following:

  • length
  • UB section size
  • Steel Grade
  • Full UDL (permanent)
  • Full UDL (Variable)
  • Is the Top flange restrained?

Timber Mat Calculator

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