A successful pipeline project depends on safely getting large and heavy equipment to the jobsite. If the pipeline is hundreds of miles long, or even just a few dozen miles, this is no small feat. Using ground protection mats is essential for transporting people and equipment over varied terrain with minimal impact on the ground below.

Why you need mats for heavy equipment

Ground protection mats for large equipment are designed to distribute the weight over a larger area. The result is minimal disturbance to the soil and plants under the mats and a smooth and safe access route for workers and equipment. Mats are used to make temporary roads, staging platforms and storage areas for pipelayers, pipe bending machines, multipurpose tractors and other heavy equipment used to install and repair pipelines.

It is often impossible to avoid using ground protection mats, and even when it may be possible, it is inadvisable. Heavy equipment cannot safely move through areas with soft terrain or swampy land. Even when the ground is firm enough to handle heavy equipment, it compacts the soil and disturbs plant life. Environmental regulations may not allow this type of activity, and even if they do, using mats will drastically reduce the cost of post-project restoration.

Using the incorrect type of mats is also problematic. On the one hand, mats that are too light-duty may not be able to withstand the weight of heavy equipment or frequent traffic. This could cause safety issues or unintentional violations of environmental regulations. On the other hand, getting mats that exceed the requirements can be an unnecessary expense.

Types of ground protection mats for large equipment

There are currently many different types of ground protection mats for large equipment, and new mats continue to be developed. Some of the types of mats most commonly used for pipeline projects include:

• Timber mats: Made from hardwood timbers, heavy-duty timber mats are durable and well suited for laying pipelines. They can be used on either flat or uneven terrain.
• Composite mats:Heavy-duty composite mats, made from high-density polyethylene plastic, are well suited to high-traffic worksites. They are lighter than cross-laminated timber (CLT) and 3-ply mats and tend to have a longer lifespan.
• Hybrid mats: Mixed wood mats, such as Timberlite light-duty timber mats, combine the strength and durability of hardwood with the lighter weight and flexibility of softwoods to provide a cost-effective solution.

The list above includes the various types of mats that can be used, but it often makes sense to use a combination of construction mats for a pipeline project. For example, areas that will only have traffic from rubber-tired vehicles may only need 3-ply, laminated or CLT mats to provide safe access.

How to choose the right heavy equipment construction mats

Selecting construction mats for large equipment is a serious undertaking that requires professional expertise, because choosing the wrong mats could have serious consequences.

Understand the terrain

Pipeline construction could require transporting people, materials and heavy equipment through mud, steep slopes, streams or protected lands. Weather and seasonal factors also play a role in mat selection because the terrain might change based on the amount of water present, the presence of ice and snow or other conditions.

Understand the local regulations

Working on protected land, through private right of ways and in previously untouched areas often comes with restrictions. Understanding these regulations and any landowner requirements for restoration is critical when planning a pipeline project and selecting mats.

Understand how they will be used

When selecting mats, it’s important to know the types of vehicles and equipment that will be used, their weights and sizes, the frequency of travel and the duration of the project. Additionally, will they only be used for transporting equipment and pipes, or will they be used to install or drop the pipes in the ground? This type of installation requires a sturdy platform that can support the equipment and the pipes.

Get expert advice from United Rentals

At United Rentals, our number one priority is to ensure that you have the right heavy equipment construction mats for your pipeline project, not to sell you specific brands. Our experienced team will work closely with you to determine what types of mats you need and what installation methods make the most sense. This includes suggesting the appropriate combination of mats and the most cost-effective installation strategies.

Contact United Rentals today to learn more about our ground protection mat rentals.