Composite Advantage Performs “Extreme Conditions” Testing of Fiber Crane Pads

When it comes to crane site setup, operators look for optimal ground conditions but instead often find soil situations that can vary significantly. The right outrigger crane pad is essential for companies servicing utility lines or recovering equipment.

Composite Advantage LLC manufactures FiberRigg with continuous fiberglass reinforcement to provide a stiff material that is able to span soft spots and gaps with minimal deflection. Fiberglass also is stiffer than wood or plastic found in conventional crane pads. As part of a continuous improvement program to deliver higher performing pads, the manufacturer recently completed extreme conditions testing of its composite crane outrigger pads.

Using a large scale test machine, Composite Advantage tested its 36”x36” FiberRigg crane pads on a steel support frame that left a 28”x28” open hole. A concentrated load was applied to the pad’s center through a 10”x10” float. During testing, the pads were loaded and unloaded to check for permanent deformation. The pads retained their shape without permanent deformation—a condition that occurs in plastic pads.  Then the pads were loaded to failure.

“For composite fiberglass pads we define failure as large deflection and internal cracking,” says Scott Reeve, president of Composite Advantage. “During the test, our pads deflected into the open hole but still supported the load even after cracking became audible.   The 36”x36” FiberRigg pad carried more than 84,000 lbs. before exhibiting more than 3 inches of deflection. The pad exceeded the test goal of 52,500 pounds.”

Reeve adds that when FiberRigg is loaded on a hard surface like concrete or asphalt, the pad will not crush or compress under loads up to 500,000 lbs.  The fiber composite crane outrigger pad outlasts wood pads and is more cost effective than UHMW plastic pads.   Continuous glass fibers provide maximum strength and stiffness for enhanced safety while its polymer makeup resists chemicals and water degradation.  Stronger, yet lighter for easy transportation and use, FiberRigg has a non-slip wear surface.  FiberRigg is offered in standard sizes as well as a variety of styles suited to different applications. Minimum orders are not required and volume pricing is available.