Outriggerpads Improves Axle Testing for Nationwide Platforms

The UK’s market leader in powered access platform hire has further enhanced safety and productivity in its test department.

Nationwide Platforms wanted lightweight but robust ramps with high load-bearing capabilities, to help its technicians test the oscillating axles on self-propelled booms and scissors. The company turned to leading spreader plate provider, Outriggerpads, for a solution.

Outriggerpads supplied 28 pairs of ramps specifically designed for testing oscillating axles. Made of high-performance UHMW polyethylene, each pair can accommodate loads of up to 50 tonnes. However, the ramps weigh only 32kg each, making them safer and easier to transport, handle and manoeuvre into place.

Mike Evenson, Chief Engineer for Nationwide Platforms, said: “The ramps supplied are deployed in each depot to provide a secure, safe, certified and trusted solution to test certain functions on our equipment. They have proved to be robust and are light enough to be easily moved when required.”

The ramps are oil, water and chemical resistant, and come with a lifetime warranty. The design includes a non-slip surface and two integrated handles for manual handling. They have proved so successful that UK Platforms – which, like Nationwide, is a Loxam company – has recently ordered eight sets for its test teams.

Charles Grizzle, Business Development Manager for Outriggerpads, said: “Nationwide Platforms takes safety extremely seriously. Our ramps enable them to safely conduct these axle tests; will outlast the equivalent metal ramps; and are lighter and easier to position, helping to improve productivity.”

The ramps complement Outriggerpads’ leading global range of spreader plates, outrigger pads and ground mats, which have vertical load bearing capacities from 5 to 350 tonnes. These products are widely used by operators of cranes, powered access platforms and other mobile plant such as concrete pumps, as well as exhibition trailers.

UHMW polyethylene spreader plates and ground mats hold their shape under extreme vertical pressure and can adapt to the contours of the terrain. They are also a lighter weight than many equivalent pads made of metal or wood and are much less susceptible to water damage, corrosion and splintering.

Oscillating axle ramp specification:

Dimensions: L 860mm x W 600mm x H 155mm
Load Capacity: 25 tonne each
Weight: 32kg each
Product Code: IP-72067