Moving a large, heavy object from one place to another is an exercise in patience and problem-solving. Learn how Hydra-Slide’s compact yet powerful skidding solutions simplify the process for greater safety and efficiency.
The Challenges of Getting from Point A to Point B
Replacing worn-out or broken equipment is common in most industrial facilities, and electric power plants are no exception. What makes this project unique, however, is the sheer size and weight of an out-of-service transformer. Moving equipment this large requires careful planning to avoid damaging the new transformer and positioning it among surrounding components and wires. Not to mention, the longer the swap takes, the more downtime and loss of revenue.
In this case, a Hydra-Slide skidding system is the ideal solution thanks to its high load capacity, ease of setup, and controlled movement. The low-profile design of the tracks keeps the equipment elevated enough to slide forward, but not so high that it hits overhead wires. And because it remains solidly supported on the skid shoes instead of suspended from ropes, there are no stray movements to correct. The crew can maintain a safe distance and still get the new transformer in place with ease.
While you may not be moving transformers around your facility, you can probably relate to having a large, heavy, unwieldy object that needs to be relocated. Whether it’s going into or out of an open space, a narrow corridor, or under a structure, we can help. Keep reading to learn why you should consider using a hydraulic skid system for heavy loads.
Why Choose a Hydra-Slide Skidding System?
Our skidding setups are versatile jack and slide systems that are streamlined and easy to set up by hand, yet powerful enough to support and move heavy loads and bulky equipment. Each system has a low profile and features precision hydraulic cylinders synchronized by a power unit for reliable and predictable push or pull motion. Each system is also modular and portable, so it can be used anywhere it’s needed and then easily stored away until next time.
What’s more, using a hydraulic skid system for heavy loads is safer and more efficient, so you can minimize the risks of injury, equipment damage, and downtime and get back to regular operations quicker.
Heavy Load Skidding vs. Cranes, Hoists, and Other Options
A skidding system has significant benefits over other options like cranes, gantries, hoists, trailers, or rollers. Consider the following risks:
- Equipment Damage. Moving suspended objects leaves them vulnerable to gusts of wind, vibrations, sudden movements, and becoming unlevel. Rollers and bearings move quickly but often lack control due to momentum generated.
- Cost. Cranes and large suspension systems are expensive to rent, and require skilled labor to operate safely, often at an additional cost.
- Personnel Safety. Lifting and stabilizing heavy loads causes fatigue and risks overexertion, drops, slips, and even crushing accidents.
- Downtime. Coordinating schedules for equipment rental and crew availability means you’re relying on an outside party to get your operations back up and running, which impacts productivity and profitability.
In contrast, investing in a skidding system keeps heavy loads stable and close to the ground, reduces physical strain, and keeps you in charge of the timeline.
Harness the Power of Friction!
With a jack and slide system, the object being moved sits on a set of skid shoes that glide on a track. The object’s weight exerts downward force, which increases the resistance (or friction) that must be overcome to move it. While friction is what makes it difficult to slide heavy objects forward or pull them backward, it also means that there is almost no risk of uncontrolled or runaway movement.
We’ve developed two different designs for our skidding systems that help prevent the object from slipping on the shoes or slipping out of alignment:
- Dry graphite lubricant, which creates a 0.15 to 0.20 coefficient of friction.
- Friction surface of stainless steel-on-UHMW polyethylene (used in the XLP30 and XLP150 systems)
Our Jack and Slide System Explained
Hydra-Slide’s skidding systems are streamlined and user-friendly, with fully mechanical components, easy setup, and an intuitive design. Our industrial load skidding equipment systems include these core components:
- Tracks. Tracks support the skid shoes and guide the load from one point to another. They include space for the hydraulic cylinders. Low-profile track sections sit only a few inches off the ground, and are modular, portable, and easy to assemble by hand without tools.
- Skid shoes. Jacking load shoes from Hydra-Slide are small platforms that support the load at several points and glide along the tracks. They include a dry graphite lubricant that does not require additional grease or lubrication.
- Cylinders. Hydraulic cylinders provide push/pull force for motion and are designed to automatically reset after each stroke.
- Synchronous Power Units (SPUs). Available with diesel, electric, or propane drive, these power units consist of multiple independent oil circuits that create an equal flow of oil to each line in the system. They can control 4, 6, or 8 cylinders at once.
Our systems are available in several configurations, including extra-low or low-profile and heavy track options. They have a range of loading capacities and are an excellent choice for controlled movement, especially in tight or limited-access settings.
What About Rigging?
Rigging and skidding are different but complementary operations used in moving heavy loads. Rigging usually involves ropes, hoists, cranes, and similar equipment for lifting and suspending an object. Rigging can also be used to stabilize a raised load.
Skidding, on the other hand, is the process of moving something horizontally as it sits on a track or platform. While it is necessary to lift an object to position it on the track and skid shoes, skidding does not involve keeping the object suspended for a prolonged period or while it is moving. Rigging can be used to lift and prepare an object for skidding, but in most skidding applications, a rigging system is not the primary mechanism for motion.
Skidding in Action: Moving a 4-foot Gate Valve With the XLP150
Recently, our XLP150 skidding system was used to replace a cracked gate valve in an underground concrete chamber. With a water tower constructed directly above the chamber, there was no way to lift out the old component. Hydraulic skidding was able to efficiently move a new 20,000-pound valve into position. Read the full story here.
An Investment in Safety and Efficiency
Hydraulic skidding is a worthwhile investment not only because it helps move heavy loads from one place to another, but because it is safer and more efficient than alternatives.
With the friction internet to a skid system, you gain control over motion, which improves safety. Hydraulic force is used to overcome friction and move the object, so when hydraulic force is removed, the object stops instead of continuing to slide or move. In contrast, objects that rest on rollers or are suspended in the air often continue to move from momentum. Skidding keeps loads low and gives operators full control over when they move.
Suspension also leaves the load and surrounding people and equipment vulnerable to injury or damage from uncontrolled movement. Especially in tight spaces, where there is little wiggle room, the potential for scrapes, breakage, or worse is high.
Skidding systems support loads fully so personnel can keep their hands, arms, and other body parts away from the load at all times. This helps prevent strain, slips, and crushing injuries associated with lifting or stabilizing objects. Laying out the track on a pre-planned route also ensures the object follows the intended path be it an office hallway, tunnel, or manufacturing facility.
You’re also making an investment in operational efficiency with a skid system. They are fully mechanical, easy to set up and take apart, can be compactly stored, and can be moved where you need to use them, so they’re always ready to use. And because they have such a simple design, you don’t need to hire an expert or rent extra equipment to use it. This means you can move objects on your timetable and get back to regular operations faster.
It’s Your Move
At Hydra-Slide, we’ve been solving the challenges that come with moving heavy loads since 2011. We’re always eager to find new applications for our skid systems and to help people learn how to skid heavy machinery safely and efficiently! To learn more, read about Hydra-Slide XLP150 skidding system specs and our other skidding equipment, or contact us to discuss your next big move!
