When it comes to protecting heavy equipment with mats, finding a reliable material that can take a beating is critical. Many people opt for wood mats because they are known to be durable and long-lasting. But are they strong enough to support the weight of heavy machinery?
The good news is that wood mats are solid and hear-wearing, making them an ideal solution for heavy equipment. Understanding the durability, benefits, and comparative strength of wood mats allows you to make the best choice for your heavy equipment support needs.
The Durability of Wood Mats
Wood is naturally strong and dense, making it an excellent choice for heavy-duty use. Different types of wood have varying levels of strength, but hardwoods like oak or maple are the most durable. In addition to being sturdy, wood is highly resistant to general wear and tear damage. As a result, it can stand up to the demands of large machines without becoming damaged or worn down.
Wood mats have a lot going for them. They are manufactured from high-quality hardwood timber and treated with preservatives to make them resistant to rot, insect damage, and decay — meaning they can withstand the elements no matter the construction area’s climate. Wood mats for heavy equipment don't require fasteners or other installation materials like concrete blocks or steel plates due to their pre-manufactured interlocking ends, which create an incredibly secure foundation. Finally, wood mats come in many lengths and widths, making it easy to source the perfect mat for your specific needs.
Benefits of Wood Mats
Wood mats for heavy equipment offer many benefits when used with machinery. First and foremost, they provide a stable surface that can handle the weight of even the heaviest machines without buckling or breaking under pressure. They also help protect underlying surfaces from damage caused by vibrations. Plus, since they are made out of natural materials, wood mats are biodegradable and environmentally friendly. Wood mats are also inexpensive compared to other types of mat solutions, making them an affordable option for any budget-conscious business owner.
Comparing the Strength of Different Materials
To answer the question posed at the beginning of this post: yes, wood mats are strong enough for heavy equipment use — provided you get a mat that is big enough to support the weight and length of your machinery. When comparing materials used to support heavy machinery or vehicles, such as aluminum or steel mats, it's essential to consider their load-bearing capacity and ability to withstand extreme temperatures (as some machines run hot). For example, steel has greater load-bearing power than aluminum. It is, however, heavier and more difficult to transport — meaning it will cost more in terms of labor costs when installing or relocating it. On the other hand, aluminum is lighter than steel but cannot handle as much weight per square foot; however, it performs better in extreme temperatures than steel.
In comparison, wood mats for heavy equipment have a greater load-bearing capacity than aluminum and steel but weigh less than steel, so they're easier to transport and install/relocate when necessary. Also, wood is a natural insulator, so it won't absorb heat like metal. Combining these strength and insulative properties makes wood ideal for use around hot, heavy machinery or engines like generators or turbines.
Wood mats offer plenty of advantages when used in conjunction with heavy equipment — they’re durable, affordable compared to aluminum or steel, easy to transport/install/relocate, and have a tremendous load-bearing capacity due to the application of preservative treatments. If you’re looking for an affordable yet effective way to protect your heavy machinery from damage caused by ground vibration or environmental elements like water runoff, use Pheonix Mats wood mats! Phoenix Mats top-of-the-line crane and construction mats are made to the highest standards. Get in touch today to explore your wood mat options.
