Blog

Timber crane mats (also referred to as timber mats or crane mats) are flat platforms made of heavy-duty wooden planks that are placed underneath large equipment, such as cranes, to protect the ground from damage and to provide a stable surface for the machinery to function. One of the main purposes of timber crane mats is to prevent heavy equipment from digging tracks into the earth, which can destroy local ecosystems, disrupt vegetation, trigger erosion, disrupt drainage, and cause cross-contamination.

Timber Crane Mats Protect Environmentally Sensitive Areas

Timber crane mats protect the environment and prevent damage to sensitive land by creating a barrier between machinery and the earth. Timber crane mats are especially useful in remote locations, since equipment must be transported long distances across unpaved landscape. If you plan to move large machinery to a pipeline, nuclear facility, watershed, or other remote location, installing a timber crane mat can ensure the equipment moves safely and effectively while reducing environmental damage.

Timber Crane Mats Prevent Erosion

When heavy machinery drives over unprotected earth, it causes soil degradation and interferes with the erosion control that’s important in wetland areas. Crane mats create a barrier between machinery and the earth, which prevents erosion.

Timber Crane Mats Protect Vegetation

Laying timber crane mats over vegetation is less invasive than driving heavy machinery over vegetation. Once the timber mats are removed from the construction site, the vegetation will rebound quickly and be free to grow again.

Timber Crane Mats Prevent Drainage Changes

Timber crane mats prevent changes to land drainage. Large machinery can carve deep tracks in the earth, which impacts drainage flow in wetland areas. Not only do timber crane mats protect machinery from becoming mired in mud, but they also ensure the equipment doesn’t negatively alter the makeup of the ground.

Timber Crane Mats Prevent Cross-Contamination

Timber crane mats prevent unwanted cross-contamination by preventing equipment from picking up bacteria or fungi from one location and transferring it to another.

Timber Crane Mats Protect Wetlands

Wetlands play an important role in local ecosystems. They are good for flood control, help prevent floods by channeling runoff water, prevent erosion, and act as filters for discharge, which enables nearby bodies of water to remain clean. Furthermore, wetlands serve as habitats for many plant species and wildlife. Timber crane mats are essential in protecting environmentally sensitive wetland areas from harm caused by construction.

Buy and Sell with Eiffel Trading

Eiffel Trading’s online marketplace boasts a wide range of construction materials and equipment for sale, including used timber crane mats, used concrete equipment, used steel sheet pile, used precast concrete barrier wall, and more.All of our listings are constantly being updated, but if you don’t see what you’re looking for, create a wanted listing.Ready to sell your used heavy equipment or construction material? List your products today on Eiffel Trading’s online marketplace.If you have any questions or would like additional information, please call us at 1-800-541-7998 or email sales@eiffeltrading.com.

Crane mats are large, flat platforms placed underneath heavy equipment, such as cranes, to protect the ground and provide a stable platform for the machinery to function. Crane mats are made from one of two main materials: heavy-duty wooden planks (which are known as timber crane mats) or a blend of virgin High-Density Polyethylene (which are called composite crane mats).The lifespan of your crane mats will depend on a number of factors, including the mats’ material (timber or composite), what kinds of stress the mats endure (heavy duty or lighter duty), the condition of the mats at the time of purchase (rated on a scale from Grade A to Grade C), and how you care for the mats when they’re being stored, used, and transported.

How To Extend the Lifespan of Timber Crane Mats

1. Plan Your Purchase

The lifespan for timber crane mats ranges from one to five years. To help your mats last longer, start by purchasing a high-quality product made to exacting standards that’s treated with a protectant to prevent wood rot and decay. The mats with the longest lifespan are usually new mats (purchased directly from the manufacturer) or Grade A or Grade AB used crane mats, which is the highest rating available for used timber crane mats. However, depending on your budget, it’s sometimes necessary to purchase Grade B timber crane mats. These mats will come with more wear and tear, but there are still ways to extend their lifespans.

2. Check the Mats’ Density and Strength

To help timber crane mats of any grade last longer, make sure they’re the appropriate density and strength for the job. Employing the wrong mats on a project is a quick way to wear the mats out faster than if the proper mats were chosen for the workload.

3. Handle the Mats with Care

To extend the life of your timber and composite crane mats, consider how the mats are transported and installed. Timber crane mats that are transported and installed correctly will last longer than those handled haphazardly, since careless handling can lead to drops, accidents, damage, and a decline in integrity.

4. Don’t Store Timber Crane Mats Outside Between Projects

Timber crane mats will rot if they’re left outside unprotected. To extend the lifespan of wooden crane mats, store them in a covered, dry location between projects.

How to Extend the Lifespan of Composite Mats

Because they’re made of HDPE, composite crane mats won’t rot like timber crane mats will, meaning they can last for years without deterioration. However, composite mats do need to be handled carefully when moving or installing because they run the risk of chipping, cracking, etc.Furthermore, just like timber crane mats, it’s important to keep the maximum loadbearing capacity of composite crane mats in mind when choosing them for a new project. By doing both of these things, you can prevent unnecessary damage to composite crane mats and help them last.

Buy and Sell with Eiffel Trading

Eiffel Trading’s online marketplace is a one-stop-shop for your heavy civil construction material needs! Our inventory includes used crane mats, used crane access trestle, used pipe pile, and so much more.All of our listings are constantly being updated, but if you don’t see what you’re looking for, create a wanted listing.Ready to sell your used heavy equipment or construction material? List your products today on Eiffel Trading’s online marketplace.If you have any questions or would like additional information, please call us at 1-800-541-7998 or email sales@eiffeltrading.com.

Crane mats (also called timber crane mats) are flat platforms made of heavy-duty wooden planks. They are placed underneath large equipment, such as cranes, to protect the surface underneath from damage and to provide a stable platform for the machinery to function. Though crane mats are commonly used on landscapes like marshes and wetlands, they can also be used on barge decking to create a solid barrier between the ship’s surface and heavy cargo that might otherwise damage the decking, like concrete pieces, heavy machinery, and bulk items such as sand, gravel, timber, coal, and grain.

Do Crane Mats Work on Barges?

Traditionally, crane mats protect wetland areas, swamps, marshes, and locations with uneven ground from becoming damaged by heavy machinery. However, crane mats can protect any kind of surface, including the decking on barges.

Can Crane Mats Support Barge Cargo?

Due to their high loadbearing capacity, crane mats can support many of the bulk items barges transport, including agriculture, coal, oil, and construction supplies.

Will Crane Mats Fit on a Barge?

Yes. Crane mats come in many sizes. They are commonly between 15’ and 50’ in length, 4’ to 8’ wide, and 8” to 1’ thick, and they can be custom-purchased to fit onto barges.

Are Crane Mats on Barges a Smart Investment?

Crane mats on barges are a smart investment because:

1. Crane mats have good longevity, and most mats can be used for years.
2. Crane mats protect a barge’s surface, which reduces maintenance costs and increases the lifespan of the barge.
3. When the crane mats are eventually uninstalled from a barge, they can be resold to recoup some of the original investment. This is especially true if your used crane mats are in favorable condition (Grade A or Grade B). If your used crane mats are of Grade C condition, there are occasionally buyers for those as well.

Buying Used Crane Mats for Barges

Buying used crane mats can help save money without sacrificing performance. Used crane mats come in three main grades: Grade A, Grade B or Grade C. In addition, they can be between grades, such as AB or BC. Grade A mats are in like-new condition. Grade B mats have minor wear and tear that does not impact their usability. Grade C mats have more significant damage but are still useable in some applications, and are the most budget-friendly of all the crane mat options.

What Crane Mat Grade is Best for Barges?

Crane mats are rated according to standards set by the National Hardwood Lumber Association and are graded on a letter scale from A to C based on the type of hardwood used, the coloration, the quality of the bolts, and the overall standard of construction.

• Grade A is the highest rating for used crane mats, and mats rated Grade A are in excellent condition and look like new.
• Grade B is the middle rating for used crane mats; these mats are more worn than Grade A mats but are still in working condition.
• Grade C crane mats are serviceable but have the most allowable wear of all used crane mats; these mats are not expected to last as long as Grade B or Grade A mats and are best suited for projects requiring less function. Typically, we do not sell Grade C crane mats.

You can use this crane mat grading system to narrow your search when purchasing used crane mats for barges. The right grade will depend on your budget and how long you plan to use the mats.When you’re ready to purchase a crane mat for use on a barge, Eiffel Trading has a large marketplace of active sellers with a wide choice of crane mats to choose from.

Buy and Sell with Eiffel Trading

Eiffel Trading’s online marketplace is a trusted source for contractors to buy and sell used materials and equipment, including used crane mats, used truckable marine equipment, used crane access trestle, and much more.All of our listings are constantly being updated, but if you don’t see what you’re looking for, create a wanted listing.Ready to sell your used heavy equipment or construction material? List your products today on Eiffel Trading’s online marketplace.If you have any questions or would like additional information, please call us at 1-800-541-7998 or email sales@eiffeltrading.com.

Welded steel pipe is created using a flat steel plate or steel strip, and its manufacturing process results in a seam on its body. Specifically, when welded steel pipe is manufactured, a steel plate or strip is bent and subsequently welded into either a circular, traditional pipe shape or a square shape. LSAW pipe, SSAW pipe, and ERW pipe are all types of welded steel pipe that are categorized based on how they are welded. For instance, LSAW pipe is welded longitudinally, and SSAW pipe is spiral-welded. ERW pipe is electric resistance welded, which results in a seam that runs parallel along the pipe body.No matter the type of welded steel pipe, production is quick and efficient and costs less than the production of alternatives like seamless steel pipe. Overall, welded steel pipe is an affordable, adaptable choice and can be used for a number of different purposes.

Welded Steel Pipe Applications

As mentioned, the uses of welded steel pipe are many. Below you’ll find some of the most popular applications for this type of steel pipe.

• Water and Gas Transport

Welded steel pipe is excellent for transporting water, other fluids, and natural gas. Its affordable price makes it ideal for large-scale projects.

• Pipe Casing

When drilled shafts are constructed, pipe casing (whether temporary or permanent) is needed, and welded steel pipe can be used for this purpose. When used as pipe casing, welded steel pipe adds support to a hole while construction in progress.

• Bearing Piles

Welded steel pipe can be driven into the ground to help support and carry loads from big, heavy structures. When used as bearing piles, welded steel pipe may also be filled with concrete to boost strength.

• Combi Walls

Welded steel pipe can be employed in the creation of combi walls, which serve as retaining structures. In combi walls, welded steel pipe is the king pile that is used in concert with steel sheet piles to form a strong, durable structure that can support significant loads.

• Underground Utilities

Bored and jacked welded steel pipe can be used to assist when underground utilities are installed. When employed this way, hydraulic jacks drive sections of steel pipe between excavations, which are then conjoined with other sections of spliced pipe. Once the desired pipe structure is created, it is cleared and cleaned out to allow for a safe area for utility work.

• Structural Sections

Welded steel pipe can be used to create large, open structures, including cofferdams. When used this way, it can offer an equal degree of bending resistance in every direction, which enables it to be resistant to buckling, even when substantially heavy loads are needing support across considerable lengths.These are a few of the primary applications in which you might find welded steel pipe employed. In terms of cost-effectiveness and overall efficiency, welded steel pipe is a solid and dependable choice!

Interested in Buying Used Steel Pipe?

Eiffel Trading’s online marketplace connects buyers and sellers to coordinate a successful transaction for both parties! Sellers are able to market their unneeded assets, and buyers are able to save money by purchasing used! In addition to used steel pipe, our marketplace offers used HDPE pipe, used steel sheet pile, used shoring towers, and so much more.All of our listings are constantly being updated, but if you don’t see what you’re looking for, create a wanted listing.Ready to sell your used heavy equipment or construction material? List your products today on Eiffel Trading’s online marketplace.If you have any questions or would like additional information, please call us at 1-800-541-7998 or email sales@eiffeltrading.com.

Purchasing used crane mats is an excellent way to save money on your project. When you’re ready to find the right crane mats for the job, Eiffel Trading’s online marketplace offers Grade A, AB, and B crane mats at the most competitive prices with the least amount of hassle.

Eiffel Trading Offers a Wide Range of Used Crane Mat Options

Crane mats are rated according to standards set by the National Hardwood Lumber Association and are graded on a letter scale from A to C, based on the type of hardwood used, the coloration, the quality of the bolts, and the overall standard of construction. Grade A is the highest rating for used crane mats, and mats rated Grade A are in excellent condition and look like new. Grade AB mats are in between the more “official” ratings of A and B, they are still great quality but a tad below Grade A. Grade B is the middle rating for used crane mats; these mats are slightly more worn than Grade A and AB mats but are still in good condition. Grade C crane mats are serviceable but have the most allowable wear of all used crane mats; these mats are not expected to last as long as Grade B or Grade A mats and are best suited for single, short-term projects. All crane mat ratings are subject to interpretation. The crane mat grading system allows you to narrow your search when purchasing used crane mats, and the best grade will depend on your project’s specific budget and requirements. Eiffel Trading has a large marketplace of active sellers, and when you purchase used crane mats through our online platform, you’ll have a wide choice of crane mats to choose from.

Eiffel Trading’s Prices are Competitive

Eiffel Trading’s online marketplace provides a smart, simple and secure sales platform to procure used crane mats at a competitive price. As opposed to a time-limited or fee-driven auction system, you can buy directly on our platform at any time. Our commission fees are one of the lowest in the industry, freight quotes are included for free, and we have a team of dedicated personnel standing by to answer questions. Getting started quickly and easily by creating a free account.

Eiffel Trading Handles the Freight

When you purchase from Eiffel Trading, we are able to handle the freight. We are committed to processing your freight quickly and efficiently, removing the stress and allowing you to focus on your business.

Eiffel Trading Offers a Large Inventory & Country-Wide Options

Eiffel Trading's online marketplace has new crane mat listings added from around the country on a consistent basis. You can search for used crane mats based on location, price, type, and more. Additionally, you can request free freight quotes in order to better estimate the total crane mat fee.

Eiffel Trading Can Resell Your Used Crane Mats after Use!

Lastly, a perk of working with Eiffel Trading is that we can turn around and help you sell your used crane mats once your project has wrapped up!

Buy and Sell with Eiffel Trading

Did you know that in addition to used crane mats, Eiffel Trading’s online marketplace also offers used HDPE pipe, used sheet pile, used concrete formwork, used traffic barrier , and so much more.All of our listings are constantly being updated, but if you don’t see what you’re looking for, create a wanted listing.Ready to sell your used heavy equipment or construction material? List your products today on Eiffel Trading’s online marketplace.If you have any questions or would like additional information, please call us at 1-800-541-7998 or email sales@eiffeltrading.com.

Crane mats are large, heavy-duty platforms made of wooden planks that are placed underneath equipment, such as cranes, to protect the ground and provide a stable platform for the machinery to function. Crane mats come with many benefits: they transport heavy construction equipment across rough or environmentally sensitive areas without damaging the terrain, they allow maximum stabilization for operating cranes, they can be used on any landscape type, they have good longevity, and more.

1. Crane Mats Support More than Just Cranes

Crane mats have excellent loadbearing capabilities and can support the weight of some of the largest construction equipment, including cranes, excavators, loaders, bulldozers, and more.

2. Crane Mats Protect the Environment

Crane mats protect environmentally sensitive areas by preventing machinery from digging tracks into the ground. By using a crane mat, you’ll also prevent unwanted cross-contamination that occurs when equipment picks up certain bacteria or fungi from one location and transfers it to another, which can cause further damage to natural habitats.

3. Crane Mats Protect Equipment

In addition to protecting the environment, crane mats also protect equipment. A crane mat acts as a barrier between construction machinery and the earth, preventing gear from becoming damaged on uneven terrain or mired in mud.

4. Crane Mats Offer Equipment Stabilization

In addition to providing a barrier between the earth and your equipment, crane mats enable machinery to function with more stability, which makes it easier for teams to work smoothly and safely.

5. Crane Mats Can Be Used on an Array of Landscapes

Crane mats are versatile in that they can be used on any type of landscape. They are particularly helpful in wetland areas, swamps, marshes, and areas with uneven ground.

6. Crane Mats Have Good Longevity

Many crane mats can be used for up to five years. For this reason, used crane mats are often bought and sold for different projects as a way to reduce costs.

7. Crane Mats are Suitable for a Wide Range of Projects

Crane mats can be used on many projects that involve heavy lifting with the use of cranes, as well as renewable wind turbine installation, excavation projects, bridge construction, projects requiring crane access trestles, and any project where extra stability is required to support heavy machinery.

8. Crane Mats Can Be Used in Bridge Construction

Crane mats can be used to create bridge decking. When used for bridge decking, crane mats create a stable platform for workers and equipment.

9. Crane Mats Can Be Used in Excavations

Crane mats can be used in excavation projects to prevent machines from losing their grip and slipping or toppling over.

10. Crane Mats Can Be Used in Oil and Gas Projects

Crane mats can create temporary roads and bridges to allow workers, vehicles and equipment to reach remote areas for construction during oil and gas projects.

11. Crane Mats Come in an Array of Sizes to Suit Different Projects

Crane mats come in many sizes to suit different projects. They are commonly between 15’ and 50’ in length, 4’ to 8’ wide, and 8” to 1’ thick. Steel through-bolts (also known as lifting bolts) can be used to support the width of mats.

12. Crane Mats Can Be Budget Friendly

Crane mats can be purchased used to save money. Used crane mats come in three grades: Grade A, Grade B or Grade C. Grade A mats are in like-new condition. Grade B mats have minor wear and tear that does not impact their usability. Grade C mats have more significant damage but are still useable in some applications, and are the most budget-friendly of all the crane mat options.

13. You Can Sell Your Used Crane Mats

When you’re finished with your crane mats, you can sell them to save on storage space and recoup some of your original investment. This is especially true if your used crane mats are in favorable condition (Grade A or Grade B), though if your used crane mats are Grade C, there are occasionally buyers for those as well.

Buy and Sell with Eiffel Trading

Eiffel Trading’s online marketplace is the go-to supplier for used heavy civil materials, including used crane mats, used crane access trestle, used HDPE pipe, used traffic barrier, and more.All of our listings are constantly being updated, but if you don’t see what you’re looking for, create a wanted listing.Ready to sell your used heavy equipment or construction material? List your products today on Eiffel Trading’s online marketplace.If you have any questions or would like additional information, please call us at 1-800-541-7998 or email sales@eiffeltrading.com.

Crane mats are large platforms made of heavy-duty wooden planks that are placed underneath equipment, such as cranes, to protect the ground from the machine’s tires, protect the equipment from becoming mired in mud, and provide a stable platform for the machinery to function. Since crane mats are not meant to be permanent, they must be uninstalled after a project is complete. If you’ve finished using your crane mats but do not plan on reusing them in the near future, there are many good reasons to sell the mats rather than hold onto them: you can recoup some of your original investment, save storage space, prevent the crane mats from rotting, and help other contractors who are looking to purchase used equipment.### Recoup Some of Your Original Investment Selling Used Crane MatsIt’s a common misconception that potential crane mat buyers are only interested in purchasing new crane mats. In truth, there is a thriving market for used and surplus crane mats, especially for contractors working on a budget. By listing your used crane mats for sale, you can connect with these buyers, sell your mats and recoup some of your original investment. This is especially true if your used crane mats are rated grade A, grade AB, or grade B. Typically, there is less potential for grade BC or grade C mats to sell on the used market.

Sell Your Used Crane Mats to Save Storage Space

Storage space is limited and can be expensive to obtain, especially if you store your equipment offsite. By selling your used crane mats, you’ll free up storage space and save the money you’d otherwise spend on storage costs. Oftentimes, contractors will need to make room for materials being pulled from the jobsite, such as pipe pile or sheet pile, and need the yard space cleared from any asset than can be sold!

Crane Mats Can Rot If They’re Left Sitting in a Yard

Because crane mats are made of wood, they will weather and rot if left outdoors. If you’re not saving your crane mats for an upcoming project, it would be a waste to allow them to deteriorate in a yard for an extended period of time; rather, you can sell your used crane mats to both make money and save resources. A win-win for all involved!

Sell Your Used Crane Mats to Help Other Contractors

The demand for used materials is one the rise as it gets easier for buyers and sellers to connect across the country. If you have unneeded used crane mats, consider selling them to take advantage of the active market while helping out a contractor who is actively purchasing for a project in the area.

Consider the Value of Your Used Crane Mats

When selling used crane mats, there are a few metrics you can use to determine their value. Crane mats are graded on a letter scale from A (the highest rating) to C (the lowest usable rating). Crane mats can be assessed based on the type of hardwood used, coloration, quality of bolts, and overall standard of construction. Furthermore, when selling your crane mats, it’s useful to know all the mat’s prior applications, which can help a buyer understand the stress the mat has previously undergone.

Final Thoughts

All in all, selling your used crane mats is almost always a great idea especially when selling with Eiffel Trading! This allows you to save storage space, recoup project costs, prevent crane mats from rotting away in your yard, and more.

Buy and Sell with Eiffel Trading

Our online marketplace allows contractors to purchase used crane mats, as well as used structural steel used HDPE pipe, used traffic barrier wall, and more.All of our listings are constantly being updated, but if you don’t see what you’re looking for, create a wanted listing.Ready to sell your used heavy equipment or construction material? List your products today on Eiffel Trading’s online marketplace.If you have any questions or would like additional information, please call us at 1-800-541-7998 or email sales@eiffeltrading.com.

What are swamp mats?

Swamp mats are a type of timber paneling set over the earth to create temporary transportation routes that can be used to move equipment across wet terrain. Swamp mats are synonymous with crane mats, and are simple, practical and economical, and they can be removed after use. As the name suggests, swamp mats are most often used in swamps and wetlands, though they can be installed on any type of wet terrain.

What are swamp mats made of?

Swamp mats are made from hardwood timber. The timber can be eight, 10 or 12 inches thick and ranges in length from eight to 40 feet.

What type of wood are swamp mats made of?

Swamp mats can be made from many types of wood including Douglas Fir, oak and mixed hardwood. The ends of swamp mats can be painted with wax lumber.

What types of machines can drive over swamp mats?

Swamp mats are designed to support heavy machinery such as oil rigs, timber harvesting equipment, and most track equipment.

Can swamp mats be used in terrain besides swamps?

Yes, swamp mats can be used on any type of landscape. They are particularly helpful in wetland areas, marshes, and areas with uneven ground.

What are the advantages of swamp mats?

Swamp mats enable heavy machinery to drive into rugged or swampy terrain. The timber mats give machines traction and prevent equipment from becoming stuck in the mud. Swamp mats are a convenient solution; they temporarily rectify unstable ground and can be removed after use.

Can swamp mats be uninstalled?

Swamp mats are designed to be uninstalled after use. This allows used swamp mats to be reused on another project, or be sold after a project in order to recoup project costs!

What is the service life of a swamp mat?

Swamp mats have good longevity; many swamp mats can be used for up to five years. For this reason, there is a strong market for the purchase and sale of used swamp mats.

How are swamp mats graded?

Used swamp mats come in Grades A, B and C. Grades A and B will have the least wear and as such, they’ll be the easiest to install and uninstall. Grade C mats will include more wear, which can make them trickier to work with. However, Grade C mats are still serviceable and are suitable for smaller projects.

Do swamp mats protect the environment?

Yes. Swamp mats protect the environment by preventing habitat damage that can occur from moving heavy machinery through a wetland. By using swamp mats, fisheries are protected, water quality is left intact, and channel changes are prevented. Furthermore, swamp mats help prevent vegetation removal and land clearing that could lead to erosion and sedimentation in the waterway.

How do you clean a swamp mat?

Swamp mats can be pressure washed using water or air to remove debris from the mat. Swamp mats should only be cleaned after they are removed from a job site. Pressure washing swamp mats also prevents the transportation of insects, viruses and fungal spores from one wetland to another.

What types of projects require swamp mats?

Swamp mats can be used on any project that involves heavy lifting with the use of cranes, as well as renewable wind turbine installation, excavation projects, bridge construction, projects requiring crane access trestles, and any project where extra stability is required to support heavy machinery.

Can I Sell My Used Swamp Mat?

Yes. If well-maintained, swamp mats can last over the course of several project cycles, and selling your used swamp mat is an excellent way to recoup some of your original investment. This is especially true if your used mats are in favorable condition (Grade A or Grade B).

Can I Buy a Used Swamp Mat?

Yes. Purchasing your swamp mats used is an excellent way to save money on your project. Swamp mats are be graded either Grade A, Grade B, Grade C, or a combination of Grade AB or BC. Grade A mats are in new condition. Grade B mats have minor wear and tear that does not impact their ability to function. Grade C mats have more significant damage but are still useable in some applications not requiring pristine mats.

Buy or Sell with Eiffel Trading

Eiffel Trading is an online marketplace designed to allow contractors to both buy and sell used assets. Our inventory includes used swamp mats, as well as used crane access trestle, used concrete formwork, used steel sheet pile, and so much more.All of our listings are constantly being updated, but if you don’t see what you’re looking for, create a wanted listing.Ready to sell your used heavy equipment or construction material? List your products today on Eiffel Trading’s online marketplace.If you have any questions or would like additional information, please call us at 1-800-541-7998 or email sales@eiffeltrading.com.

Crane mats are large, flat platforms made of heavy-duty wooden planks that are placed underneath equipment, such as cranes, to protect the ground and provide a stable platform for the machinery to function. Crane mats have excellent loadbearing capacity to support the weight of heavy machinery; they enable machinery to operate effectively by creating a solid foundation, which prevents the equipment from digging tracks into the ground or becoming mired in mud.When purchasing crane mats, you’ll have the choice between buying new or used. Crane mats are rated according to standards set by the National Hardwood Lumber Association and are graded on a letter scale from A (the highest rating) to C (the lowest usable rating). In addition, they can also be between two grades (i.e. grade AB or BC). Crane mats are graded based on the type of hardwood used, coloration, quality of bolts, and overall standard of construction. In order to earn their rating, crane mats must be graded by a licensed grader.

GRADING SYSTEM:

Grade A is the highest rating for used crane mats. Mats rated Grade A are in excellent condition and look like new. The timbers in Grade A mats are still square and in like-new condition, and all the mat bolts are fully intact. Grade A mats must be less than nine months old and contain minimal wear with no timber chunks missing.Grade AB is between the standard crane mat grades of A and B, meaning they are not quite in the excellent condition of an A, but still superior to grade B.Grade B is the middle rating for used crane mats. Grade B crane mats are slightly more worn than Grade A mats, but they’re still in solid condition. Grade B mats may have a few broken or missing bolts, stains, or other signs of use. It should be noted that Grade B mats have no structural faults; their “wear and tear” must be purely visual. Timber edges of Grade B crane mats are still square and timbers are sound and free of rot.Grade BC mats are an in-between grade between B and C. They are not quite as damaged as grade C, but don’t make the cut of grade B.Grade C crane mats are serviceable but have the most allowable wear of all used crane mats. Grade C crane mats may have damaged bolts or sections that have been rebuilt. These mats are not expected to last as long as Grade B or Grade A mats, which is why they’re best suited for single, short-term projects. Grade C mats can have a missing or pulled rod on one end of the mat, and timbers may be broken within two feet of either end (but no timbers can be broken inside this range). Grade C mats are usually over 18 months of age and are the least expensive of all types of crane mat.

FINAL THOUGHTS

The crane mat grading system allows buyers to narrow down their search when purchasing used crane mats. The best grade will depend on a project’s specific budget and requirements. A perk of buying used crane mats through Eiffel Trading is that you have the option to do an in-person inspection before buying, which ensures that the used crane mat quality is up to your personal standard!

BUY AND SELL WITH EIFFEL TRADING

Eiffel Trading’s online marketplace is a one-stop-shop for your heavy civil needs! In addition to used crane mats, we also market used HDPE pipe, used concrete barrier wall, used crane access trestle, and so much more.All of our listings are constantly being updated, but if you don’t see what you’re looking for, create a wanted listing.Ready to sell your used heavy equipment or construction material? List your products today on Eiffel Trading’s online marketplace.If you have any questions or would like additional information, please call us at 1-800-541-7998 or email sales@eiffeltrading.com.

HDPE pipe is a type of plastic pipe that’s used to transfer fluids and gases. HDPE pipe (which stands for high-density polyethylene pipe) comes with many benefits: it is resistant to corrosion, flexible, has a long service life, is highly adaptable, includes trenchless installation, can be used for pipeline rehabilitation, and is eco-friendly. Notably, HDPE pipe can be joined by butt welding, electrofusion welding, socket welding or extrusion welding. These welds create a homogenous joint that is at least as strong as (if not stronger than) the existing pipe, with no need to use rubber seals or jointing chemicals (such as is needed with PVC pipe). As a result, HDPE pipe is more environmentally friendly, has a longer lifespan, and is less likely to be affected by root intrusion.When testing HDPE pipe, certain guidelines should be followed in order to ensure any defects are accurately captured and workers stay safe.

Before Beginning HDPE Pipe Testing

There are many types of testing methods for HDPE pipe installations, including joint testing and deflection testing. Before the pipe is put into service, visual inspections of the pipe should be performed to ensure the pipelines are properly cleaned and free of debris. This will help ensure accurate test results. Closed circuit television can be used to inspect the inside of the pipeline for such debris.

HDPE Watertight Joint Testing

In most situations, HDPE pipe will need to function under pressurized conditions and therefore requires leak-free joints. In order to ensure the HDPE pipe is in solid working condition and does not have any cracks or leaks, watertight joint testing should be done before installation. Watertight joint testing can be performed with water or air pressure. It should be noted that pressure testing poses a safety hazard to workers and should be performed by trained personnel according to established standards. HDPE pipe that is intended for drainage applications will likely function under non-pressurized conditions and often does not need to be pressure tested.

HDPE Pressure Testing

If specified by the engineer, pressure testing can be conducted prior to pipe installation. Pressure testing involves filling the pipe with water and carefully bleeding off any trapped air. The pipe can then undergo a hydrostatic test pressure that is 150 percent greater than the system design pressure. The test should run for up to three hours and every fused joint should be examined. Any leakage must be repaired and then retested.

HDPE Pipe Deflection Testing

If deflection testing is required by the project engineers or contract agreement, it can be performed up to 30 days after the pipe is installed. To perform the test, a properly sized mandrel will be pulled from manhole to manhole. Debris or sediment in the pipe can prevent the mandrel from passing through the pipe, which could lead to false indications. If failures occur during deflection testing, it's recommended that they are investigated before any conclusions are drawn.Deflection testing is not required for HDPE pipe installations that follow proper construction standards, especially with regards to backfill.

HDPE Pipe Repairs

If during testing it is discovered that the HDPE pipe is damaged and requires repair, the recommended repair methods well depend on the nature of the pipe system and the extent of the damage. There are many soil tight and watertight solutions available to repair HDPE pipes.The above blog is an overview of different HDPE testing types, not recommendations or guidelines.

Buy and Sell with Eiffel Trading

Eiffel Trading is an online marketplace for heavy civil and marine contractors to buy and sell assets. When it comes to used and surplus materials, our inventory ranges from used hdpe pipe, to used steel plates, to used traffic barrier, and more. Furthermore, our brand new material inventory includes new h-pile beams, new steel plates, new wide flange beams, and more.All of our listings are constantly being updated, but if you don’t see what you’re looking for, create a wanted listing.Ready to sell your used heavy equipment or construction material? List your products today on Eiffel Trading’s online marketplace.If you have any questions or would like additional information, please call us at 1-800-541-7998 or email sales@eiffeltrading.com.