When processing plastic sheets (such as UHMWPE or HDPE) into crane outrigger pads, it is necessary to consider many aspects such as structure, performance, safety, and process. The following are detailed precautions:
I. Key points for material selection
Project Requirement Description
Material recommendation UHMWPE (ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene) is better than HDPE because it is more wear-resistant, compression-resistant, impact-resistant, and low-temperature-resistant.
Molecular weight Select UHMWPE with a molecular weight of 4.5–5 million or more to withstand heavy load impact.
Density Usually >0.93 g/cm³, the higher the load-bearing, the more stable it is.
Compressive strength Should be higher than 20 MPa to avoid support deformation.
Using temperature -100°C to 80°C to meet the needs of field working environments.
II. Structural design and size
Project Recommended design description
Thickness Common thicknesses are 30mm, 40mm, 50mm, 60mm, and 80mm, depending on the tonnage of the crane. For example: 30-40mm is used for 10 tons, and 60mm+ is recommended for 50 tons and above.
Shape: mainly square or rounded rectangle; edge chamfering to prevent bumps.
Size: common 300×300mm, 400×400mm, 500×500mm, 800×800mm, 1000×1000mm.
Bearing area design: try to make the support area > 2 times the diameter of the foot column to reduce the unit pressure.
Anti-slip design: the surface can be engraved with anti-slip patterns and grooves, and the bottom surface can also be roughened for anti-slip treatment.
III. Processing precautions
Processing technology description
Cutting method: Use CNC sawing machine, laser cutting machine or CNC processing to ensure that the edges are neat and not melted.
Chamfering/rounded corner treatment: prevent accidental injury and transportation collision. Commonly used R angle or bevel cutting.
Drilling treatment: If a handling hole or a rope threading hole is required, chamfering must be done to avoid fracture and concentrated stress. The hole position needs to be away from the edge (>30mm)
Surface treatment Optional frosting, anti-slip carving or original color plane, adjusted according to the purpose.
IV. Safety performance and accessories
Safety accessories/function Description
Wire rope/handle hole Easy to carry and install, it is recommended to open the hole + metal bushing to avoid cracks.
Anti-slip rubber pad Optional installation at the bottom to improve ground adhesion and prevent sliding.
Reflective stickers and logos Used for night construction or roadside operations to improve visibility.
Tonnage logo/Logo engraving It is recommended to mark the tonnage, brand, size, etc. for easy management.
V. Transportation and storage precautions
Item Precautions
Avoid direct sunlight Long-term exposure will accelerate material aging (especially HDPE)
Keep away from high temperature/open flame UHMWPE will slowly melt and deform when exposed to open flame
Stack neatly It is recommended to lay flat or use a wooden pallet as a bottom to prevent the board from warping