Should I use outrigger pads?

Let’s start with a very simple question: should I use outrigger pads when operating my mobile crane, boom truck or any heavy machinery equiped with outriggers? The short answer is yes, you definitely should.

Local regulations and industry standards sometimes require you to use outrigger pads, but even if that is not the case, using them greatly adds to the safety on your job site. Outrigger pads play a crucial role in ensuring the stability of your boom truck during lifting and loading operations. Using pads minimizes the risk of sinking, tipping or instability. This is particularly the case on soft or muddy soils. But also on concrete, for example, the pads will prevent your outriggers from damaging the road surface which can cause liability issues for your company.

Outrigger pads enhance safety for your crew, for your machinery and can prevent external damages caused by the outriggers.

I recognize the importance of outrigger pads. What is the next step?

Several factors should be considered when choosing outrigger pads for boom trucks:

Load Capacity: The outrigger pads must be capable of supporting the weight of the boom truck, including the maximum load it is expected to lift or carry. It's essential to select pads with a sufficient load capacity to avoid overloading and potential accidents.

Size and Shape: Outrigger pads come in various sizes and shapes to accommodate different types of outrigger configurations and ground conditions. The pad should be large enough to provide adequate support and stability, while also fitting within the available space on the job site.

For bigger sized pads you will often have the choice between square and round pads. What’s the difference? Round pads are generally a bit more expensive as they require more cutting and labour when manufactured. However, their biggest advantage is being able to flip them on their side so you can roll them to a different location. This can often be done by just one worker, while big square pads mostly require multiple workers to be moved.

LODAX round pads also come with a design that lets you tug in the lifting handle, so the rope won’t get damaged while rolling the pad.

Material: Outrigger pads are typically made from materials such as high-density polyethylene ((U)HMWPE), wood, steel, or composite materials. Each material has its advantages and disadvantages in terms of durability, weight, and resistance to environmental factors such as moisture and chemicals.

LODAX Outrigger pads are made of (U)HMWPE-R. The R stand for recycled, but we actually use virgin recycled material. This means the material has never been used for any other purpose, but was collected from other manufacturing processes.

When looking for outrigger pads you will often be given the choice between wooden and plastic pads. At first sight, wooden pads are significantly cheaper, but there are drawbacks. First, if you want your wooden pads to have more or less the same quality as your plastic pads, you are most likely looking at tropical hardwood, at which point the price advantage is no longer present. Second, you would also want to look at durability and weather resistance. Lodax outrigger pads are resistant to weathering, moisture, chemicals and UV exposure. They do not warp, crack, or splinter like wood, making them ideal for outdoor use in various environmental conditions. Over time, plastic pads offer consistent performance, maintaining their strength and load-bearing capacities even with repeated use. Wood pads are much more likely to degrade over time due to exposure to moisture, leading to decreased reliability and performance, and you will have to replace them relatively quickly. The exposure to moisture also influences handling. Plastic pads will always maintain their weight, while a wooden pad will never be as light as on the day you purchase it. And while wooden pads might require maintenance, plastic pads do not. Most importantly, when looking at cost-effectiveness, plastic outrigger pads simply outperform wooden pads. The longevity and durability results in higher return on investment over time. All these advantages combined result in plastic pads generally being safer than wooden pads.

All materials used by Lodax have been thoroughly lab-tested and certified.

Portability: Depending on the nature of the work and the frequency of mobilization, portability may be an important consideration. Lightweight outrigger pads are easier to transport and handle, making them suitable for applications where the boom truck needs to move frequently between job sites.

Durability and Longevity: Outrigger pads are subjected to heavy loads and harsh environmental conditions, so it's essential to choose pads that are durable and resistant to wear and tear. High-quality materials and construction methods can prolong the lifespan of the pads and reduce the need for frequent replacements.

How to choose the correct pad?

1. Determine the load capacity

The maximum load capacity for a single stabilizer foot should be provided by the machine manufacturer or reseller, and can typically be found on the machine's technical data sheet. If this information is not readily available, please provide us with the machine data and Lodax will assist you in selecting the appropriate outrigger pad.

2. Choose the right outrigger pad

Our product tables provide information on the maximum load capacity for each of our pads. These load capacities are primarily calculated for use with construction equipment and machines, such as mobile cranes, aerial platforms, and concrete pumps.

3. Check the pressure

It is important to ensure that the material of the outrigger pad can withstand the pressure applied by the stabilizer foot. Lodax material can handle a pressure of 8 MPa (1160,30 psi) on a long period of time and up to 25 MPa (3625,94 psi) on a short period of time.

Example:

We have a stabilizer foot of size 7,8 x 7,8 in.
Calculation: 7,8 in x 7,8 in x 1160,30 psi
= 60,84 in² x 1160,30 psi = 70592 lbf
Conclusion: Do not exceed a load higher than 70 000 pounds on a LODAX pad with a stabilizer foot of 7,8 x 7,8 inch.

4. Check the ground

It is important to note that the suitability of an outrigger pad for use on a particular ground or foundation will depend on a variety of factors. These factors may include soil composition, ground conditions, and other environmental factors. Please view the table below concerning load capacities for each type of soil.

The machine operator has the obligation to make an examination of the ground bearing capacity before setting up the machine.

Example:

We have a LODAX pad size 30 x 30 in with a 55 000 lbs load capacity. We apply 50 000 pounds to the pad and soil.

Calculation:
50 000 pounds / 30 x 30 in = 55.6 psi

Conclusion: the type of soil in this case should be be “hard clay soil” or “gravel”.

5. Consider the thickness

Lodax material exhibits flexibility, which causes it to bend at the edges under high pressure. This bending results in the areas of the pad losing contact with the ground, thereby reducing the surface area that supports weight. To prevent such bending and enhance the pad's effectiveness, it is recommended to choose a thicker pad. Please do not hesitate to contact us if you have any doubts.

Conclusion

Choosing the right outrigger pad for boom trucks is essential to ensure safety, stability, and efficiency in operations. By considering factors such as load capacity, size, material, portability, and durability, operators can select pads that meet their specific requirements and provide reliable support on a variety of job sites. Whether it's solid pads, multi-piece pads, stackable pads, or crane mats, there are options available to suit every need and budget. Investing in high-quality outrigger pads is a small price to pay for the peace of mind that comes with knowing your boom truck is properly supported and secure during lifting and loading operations.