Aerial Platform Tracks
There are many names by which aerial platforms are known: mobile elevating work platforms, aerial devices and elevating work platform. Regardless of the name, this equipment piece has only one clear purpose – providing temporary access for people and equipment to hard to reach places, usually located at height.
In essence, an elevator does a similar job. However, given the fact that these platforms are usually located on a moving machine, they are quite flexible and convenient in granting access for construction and maintenance work. They are also used for allowing emergency access, a notable example of which is a firefighter truck. That is what makes them different from permanent elevator installations. Sometimes aerial platforms come equipped with additional features. This allows them to serve for more than temporary access and transport. Examples include power tools, connectors with compressed air and electrical outlets. Certain platforms are specifically designed for carrying window glass and frames.
There are few types of aerial platforms, each designed with key features to make their application different. The most distinctive difference is the drive mechanism, which moves the platform. Regardless of the type, the ability of platforms to lift weights is usually limited to a ton (unless the platform is specifically designed for lifting increased weight).
Aerial devices are one of the popular types of aerial platforms. This widespread model features hydraulic pistons, powered by gasoline or diesel motors. Units powered by electrical sources are gaining popularity fast, as they make for a better option indoors, where heavier equipment is a no-go. In the past, these platforms were originally used in orchards, which is why they are nicknamed ‘cherry pickers’.
The scissor lift is another type of aerial platform. The notable feature of this type is that it can only move vertically through a set of folding supports in a crossing pattern. Pressure applied on the lowest of the supports extends the pattern and propels the platform upwards.
All aerial platform manufacturers have strict safety criteria to follow. Operators need a special license. All machines need to undergo severe maintenance and stability checks, in order to ensure that they are fit for work without any risk. Equipping the right aerial platform tracks for tracked vehicles is also a must.
At McLaren Industries, we have set a goal of providing the best aerial platform tracks on the market. Here are out top-tier solutions:
- Next Generation Rubber Tracks – if there is one thing you should be careful about when looking for aerial platform tracks, it is how strong undercarriage vibrations they produce. The ability to reduce those and provide for a safe and stable ride is very important. That is exactly what McLaren’s Next Generation Rubber Tracks provide. This is one of their many benefits, ranking them as top-tier aerial platform tracks. Their tread pattern is specially designed for a smooth and stable ride. Thanks to the SpoolRite Belting Technology, the Next Generation series are especially sturdy and not prone to breaking. In essence, the design features a single steel belt with no overlapping areas and no joints. This maintains track integrity at all times, whether the platform is required indoors or outdoors. For work projects that involve sensitive ground and polished surfaces, there is a specially designed non-marking option. These tracks are available in two sizes: 180 and 230 mm wide tracks. The great quality of these aerial platform tracks is guaranteed to provide more value than any other rubber track option you may have come across. The results of most OEM tests are clear: McLaren’s tracks outperform any other track solution and provide for and long undercarriage life and productive work with the machine.