A hydraulic skidding system provides a safe and efficient method for horizontal transfer of heavy structures. It has met with great success and is based on a combination of heavy lifting with hydraulic jacks and skidding technique, using the latest within low friction plastics and epoxy treated sliding surfaces.
A hydraulic skidding system is ideal for moving industrial objects and can be used for installation regardless of the size and weight of the object to various locations. For a lot of tasks, they are considered both safer and more effective solutions than using cranes and other machinery. Due to its user-friendliness and many advantages, the use of the hydraulic skidding system is becoming more common within many industries with the need to move heavy structures and objects horizontally.
But before we dive into the many advantages of the hydraulic skidding system, how exactly does it work?
How does a skidding system work?
Construction companies who need to move and carry heavy loads from one location to another are where the hydraulic skidding systems play a major role, and have, in many ways, revolutionized how to do it efficiently. A skidding system is designed in a way to carry out safe and precise movements of heavy materials. The main attribute of this system is that it can move materials and structures even in confined and restricted environments.
The equipment consists of hydraulic jacks (for pushing & lifting) sitting on a base plate. The base plate has low friction pads attached underneath for sliding on the transfer lane’s track. Each unit is fairly small, but with large lifting power using the power of hydraulics and linked with several units, enormous lifting forces can be achieved.
Types of hydraulic skidding systems
There are two types of skidding systems that companies primarily make use of: heavy track and low profile skidding systems. Both systems are equally safe and proficient in moving heavy loads but are designed for different applications:
- Heavy track skidding systems are made for more rough applications. They are best used on field conditions or tracks that span unsupported distances. Heavy track models can be used for loads from railcars to transporters, across open areas or on uneven ground.
- Low-profile skidding systems are designed for moving loads where there is restricted access or overhead clearance and good surface conditions, like well-supported surfaces. All components are hand-portable and easy to transport.
The many advantages of a skidding system powered by hydraulic jacks
Hydraulic skidding systems possess a list of characteristics and features that have earned their place in the spotlight. Listed below are some of the features that differentiate it from other equipment:
- Can move extremely heavy loads
- Can be controlled remotely
- Has very low maintenance costs
- The position of the units is easily controlled
- No external force is required.