Why Are Rubber Tracks Used on Aerial Lifts?
One major benefit of modern-day aerial lifts is that they are made to tackle the challenges of Canadian terrain. In fact, to do so efficiently, they come equipped with a bevy of features such as a compact and lightweight build, stable outrigger pads, and a tracked undercarriage.
However, one of the features that is seldom talked about is rubber tracks. Why are they used? Why not steel ones?
The reason is a bit more complicated than you think. Fortunately, this blog is about to shed light on it.
At Platform Basket Canada, we make some of the most advanced aerial work platforms in North America, and equip them with rubber track systems to ensure safety and efficiency. Let us show you why we use them.
The Role Of Track Traction In Aerial Lift Performance
When you think about it, aerial lifts are found mostly commonly functioning in environments that require stability and low ground impact in equal measure. This is by no means an easy feat to achieve, as these platforms are still quite large, though way more compact than a traditional crane.
That said, these machines must provide precise and controlled movements when navigating through various spaces such as narrow backyards, construction sites, rail corridors, or interior spaces.
Guess what makes this possible? The tracked undercarriage.
Unlike wheeled lifts that function on point contact with the ground, aerial lifts with wide rubber tracks ensure equal distribution of their weight across their operating surface. This makes them perfect for:
- Soft or uneven terrain
- Snow and ice-covered areas
- Fragile or finished indoor surfaces
- Sloped or unstable grounds
For Canadian operators, this is a blessing as the ground conditions in the country tend to vary by season and geography.
Why Do Aerial Lifts Use Rubber Tracks Instead Of Steel?
There are multiple reasons why aerial work platforms feature rubber tracks instead of steel ones, which are commonly found in most industrial equipment. Let’s explore the major ones:
Reduced ground pressure
As we explained before, rubber tracks = equal distribution of the machine’s weight over the ground’s surface.
This is extremely beneficial when operating the lift on sensitive ground such as turf, paving stones, or indoor flooring. Not only do they prevent damage, but they also facilitate a wide variety of jobs such as urban maintenance, tree care, and indoor facility operations.
Improved surface protection
Indoor environments, in particular, demand surface preservation. Think places such as shopping centers, arenas, heritage sites, or private properties. Damage to the grounds here can be a huge liability that can set you back by thousands of dollars. Rubber tracks prevent the scarring, cracking, or abrasion of such surfaces, which is inevitable with steel tracks.
Better grip on mixed terrain
Modern aerial work platforms with rubber tracks feature sophisticated tread patterns that make it easy to maintain a firm grip on a wide variety of ground conditions, such as gravel, wet soil, concrete, snow, or lightweight ice conditions.
The Connection Between Rubber Tracks & Canadian Ground Conditions
As operators in Canada, you know how uniquely challenging the country’s climate and landscape can be. From freeze-thaw cycles to muddy season, and uneven surfaces – risks lurk in almost every corner.
Aerial lifts with rubber tracks can help you address these challenges by:
- Offering consistent ground contact even on irregular or bumpy surfaces
- Reducing the sinking motion when working on soft soil
- Keeping steady on cold or rigid surfaces
- Minimizing vibration transfer to operators during movement
These are serious benefits that have propelled aerial work platforms to become the preferred choice for tasks across industries such as forestry, telecom, utilities, and urban construction nationwide.
Conclusion
Rubber tracks might seem like a simple design feature, but they are actually an enhancement that contributes significantly to the stability and safety of an aerial work platform. Made to tackle Canada’s demanding terrain and seasonal conditions, they are what you need for unmatched mobility.
Platform Basket Canada provides the most advanced and stable aerial lifts in Mississauga, Ontario. Engineered with jobsite adaptability in mind, they deliver reliable traction and precise control. Contact us to schedule a demo of their impressive capabilities.
FAQs
Why don’t aerial lifts use solid wheels instead of tracks?
Solid wheels do not provide the stability and even ground pressure that rubber tracks do – especially on uneven surfaces.
Do rubber tracks damage concrete or finished floors?
No, rubber tracks prevent damage to such floors, minimizing instances of marking or abrasion.
Can rubber tracks handle snow and light ice?
Yes, they are built to provide excellent traction on snowy or controlled grounds.
