Transporting and handling large, heavy objects in smaller spaces requires specialist equipment. Usually, cranes or self-propelled modular transporters (SPMT) are chosen for manoeuvring abnormal loads and heavy goods, but even they cannot be used at times.
When space is limited, jacking and skidding are the go-to options for many heavy haulage companies. But, what are jacking and skidding and how are they used?
Continue reading this insightful guide to find out.
What is jacking and skidding?
Jacking and skidding is a technique used to move heavy goods when there is not enough space for a crane or SPMT.
There are several different types of jacks available to use. Three of which are: climbing, cylinder and strand.
Climbing jacks are hydraulically powered and can raise and lower heavy loads.
Cylinder jacks lift loads to a position where climbing jacks can be placed underneath and transport the goods. Once the climbing jack is out of the way, they can also lower the object to ground level.
Strand jacks contain a hydraulic cylinder which moves a cable through the jack and allows the load to be lifted or lowered.
Skidding systems are also powered by hydraulics and enable precise positioning across a range of different industrial projects. They’re made of two main parts: skid shoes and skid beams.
Both the skid shoes and the load travel along the skid beams using a self-locking hydraulic propulsion system.
What are the benefits of using a strand jack system?
Due to being automatic solutions, strand jacks can lift and lower without any personnel at the jacks whilst also possessing pre-set overload protection.
Strand jacks also provide remote control monitoring and mechanical fail-safe gripping mechanisms, if required. They can be adjusted at various speeds, to, automatically synchronising irrespective of loads.
Additionally, strand jacks can hold their load mechanically rather than hydraulically when movement is stopped. A counterbalance valve ensures smooth and controlled lowering.
Another benefit strand jacks offer is their lifting capacity with some models capable of lifting up to 1405 tons.
When and how is jacking used?
Jacking systems are used in the heavy haulage industry when there are restrictions to access or cranes cannot be used.
When access is restricted or a crane cannot be used, abnormal loads can be lifted and loaded by a jacking system.
Different types of jacking systems can be used depending on the load. For example, strand jacks are used for a suspended load or to position it over a skid track for horizontal movement. Hydraulic and mechanical jacking systems are used to elevate a load, and there must be a strong and stable foundation when lifting vertically.
Hydraulic and mechanical jacks can be used with skidding systems. For example, the load is jacked up and then moved horizontally to its new position with a skidding system. These operations are effective for lifting and moving loads within buildings or for installations at a site with restricted space.
Strand jacks are flexible, allowing for different types of configurations. They can be used as a single device or with multiple devices, making them suitable for both onshore and offshore operations in a range of industries.
Because the clamps in a strand jack have a crushing effect, they have a limited number of lifting operations but the length of the strands can vary depending on the lifting requirements for each task.
When and how is skidding used?
Skidding systems are capable of moving all kinds of different loads, ranging from one ton to over 1000. Cranes are not always the best – or safest – option for horizontal load movement, so skidding systems are often favoured, especially if space is limited.
Hydraulic skidding systems tend to have the same essential components: tracks, skid shoes and hydraulic cylinders.
Skidding systems are used to horizontally transport abnormal loads that would otherwise be very dangerous to lift with a crane. Moving them slowly and carefully along skid tracks makes it safe for everybody in the surrounding area, and ensures the goods remain undamaged.
A jacking system would lift the goods onto the skidding system, where they would then be taken to their destination. Skidding systems can only transport goods in a straight line, so if turns are required, the goods would need to be lifted and placed on another track.
Skidding systems have been in regular use since the 1980s and remain one of the safest ways to transport huge objects. They’re not just for heavy objects, though.
Skidding systems are often used in small spaces and are useful for transporting goods down a hallway, for example. Specialised rigs can be used to move power transformers down the hallways of hospitals or office buildings.
Choose JB Rawcliffe & Sons for jacking and skidding
Do you require the expert services of a heavy haulage company that can move your goods using jacking and skidding systems?
If so, you’re in the right place! At JB Rawcliffe & Sons, we have decades of experience in this industry and know the exact type of equipment required for every job.
Simply contact us today and we can talk about your requirements. Call 01695 737 880 or send an email to enquiries@jbrawcliffe.com to speak to a member of our team.