Main Differences between Steel and Rubber Tracks

Equipping the right tracks on your machine is of big importance when it comes to stability and getting the job done right. Many construction projects are challenging and require superb performance, especially when work takes place in narrow spaces and tight job sites. Ensuring that your mini excavator or skid steer loader is as maneuverable as possible is a quest you must not take lightly.

One big dilemma, which often surfaces when it comes to equipping a construction vehicle with tracks, is whether to choose steel or rubber tracks. There is much to consider when it comes to choosing between the two types. You must take every factor into consideration, if you want the best results to come out of this choice. After all, when machine productivity and performance are on the line, you should make no compromise. Here is what you need to know about both types of tracks.

Steel Tracks – it is no secret to experts that steel tracks have superb longevity and don’t wear out as much as their rubber counterparts. This makes them sort of an investment option, since their price is usually higher and could be a hindrance if budget restrictions are in place. Still, these tracks are largely preferred when work takes place on abrasive surfaces and difficult terrains. Most benefits come from the fact that these tracks are considerably heavier than rubber. They improve the stability of the machine, as that is one thing challenged when working in tough conditions. Additionally, steel tracks are good for added traction, making them the best choice on snowy and ice surfaces. The added weight of steel tracks does come with certain drawbacks, such as that it makes installation more difficult. Additionally, because steel tracks are rather expensive, you should always look for extra warranty options and test them out to ensure they are compatible with your machine and that they fit perfectly.
Rubber Tracks – rubber tracks are the best choice when it comes to operations on dirt and grass terrain. They truly shine in such off-road conditions, as they make the machine more flexible and stable on the ground by improving flotation. One of the main features of rubber tracks is the various tread patterns they come with. Deeper tread patterns contribute to better traction on muddy surfaces, while light footprints are used on smooth surfaces, such as concrete and asphalt. Rubber tracks are required when ground pressure needs to be reduced, such as when the landscape features underground systems. Such landscape requires a specific approach, and rubber tracks provide the best solution. Rubber tracks have one undisputed advantage over steel tracks: they provide a smooth cushioned ride, which is much more comfortable for the operator. However, in comparison to steel tracks, rubber counterparts are more vulnerable to wear and damage, unless their quality is guaranteed by the manufacturer. Although these tracks are cheaper, you need to be careful not to pick poor quality tracks with little amount of rubber compound used, as that would mean they last less and lead to downtime.

In order to select the right type of track for your machine, you need to consider several things:

Application – depending on what job the machine is involved in, you may want to equip it with tracks that provide the most benefit.
Conditions – it is important to select a type of tracks that best fit the conditions that the machine will operate in. For example, it’s not wise to use steel, when the job is done on concrete, as it can damage the surface.
Machine specifications – certain machines are designed to use a certain type of tracks. They will not operate at maximum capacity when the other type of tracks is equipped, so it’s important to know this detail before selecting tracks.

There is one thing that concerns both steel and rubber tracks – the fact that there is a certain hybrid-style of tracks. In essence, hybrid tracks are steel, but they have bolted on rubber pads. The pads can usually be removed, making them a flexible option for any work and conditions. Such design combines the strengths of both types of tracks and eliminates the weaknesses to a great extent.

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