Introduction
There are mainly two types of tracks used in construction equipment steel tracks and rubber tracks. Both have their advantages and limitations when it comes to performance on job sites. In this article, we will take a detailed look at the key differences between steel tracks and rubber tracks in terms of design, durability, traction and fluidity of movement.
Steel Track Design
Steel tracks primarily consist of interconnected steel plates or shoes linked together by pins and bushings. They are usually made of hardened steel alloy for maximum strength and durability. The links form an endless belt and fit perfectly over the track rollers of equipment like bulldozers, excavators, loaders etc. Each link has a grouser or projection on its surface to provide superior traction on varying terrains.
The interconnected design of steel tracks offers excellent load distribution. They can support heavy equipment weighing several tons without any issues related to sinking or ground penetration. Steel tracks are also highly durable and can last for thousands of hours of operation with minimal wear and tear if properly maintained. However, their rigid construction makes them noisy and not as smooth-riding as rubber tracks.
Rubber Track Design
On the other hand, rubber tracks comprise of solid rubber pads connected together through durable fabric reinforcements. The solid rubber composition provides excellent shock absorption and a more fluid movement compared to the link and pin system of steel tracks. Rubber tracks are virtually maintenance-free and do not require frequent lubrication like their steel counterparts.
The individual solid rubber pads are usually longer than steel track shoes. This elongates the ground contact patch and further enhances traction. Some advanced rubber track models feature non-marking rubber compound which leaves minimal ground indentation. Their continuous band design evenly distributes the equipment weight without causing ruts or damage to delicate terrains.
Durability Comparison
In terms of longevity, steel tracks have the clear upper hand over rubber tracks. They can withstand years of punishing work in the harshest conditions and take more abuse than any other track system. On the job, steel tracks are subjected to impacts, twisting, bending and other stresses but generally maintain their form and function. With necessary repairs and component replacements, steel tracks can potentially work throughout the lifespan of the equipment.
On the flip side, bonding between rubber pads and fabric reinforcements is rubber track's Achilles heel. While they offer smooth operation in normal working situations, they are not designed to withstand severe applications involving extensive impacts or high speeds over rocky terrain. Excessive heat from sliding or twisting strains can prematurely degrade rubber compounds. On an average, rubber tracks need to be replaced every 1,000-1,500 hours depending on working conditions and application.
Traction Performance
When it comes to traction, rubber tracks have a clear advantage over their steel counterparts. Their continuous band design and larger ground contact area provides excellent flotation even in muddy and soft terrains where steel tracks may sink or lose traction. Advances like non-aggressive tread patterns and low ground pressure further enhance their ability to smoothly maneuver in delicate applications.
Steel tracks still offer good traction in most standard working conditions involving earthmoving, construction, landscaping etc. But their interleaved link system reduces overall ground contact and makes them prone to slipping if pushed to their limits, especially in muddy soils where sinking is also an issue. Special lug patterns and longer shoes try to bridge this gap but still trail rubber tracks in outright traction performance.
Fluidity of Movement
This is another aspect where rubber tracks clearly win over conventional steel tracks. Their self-cleaning rubber composition rolls over obstacles with ease absorbing impacts in the process. This results in a smoother, more fluid ride quality. Vibration levels transmitted to the operator cab are also noticeably lower with rubber tracks.
On the other hand, steel tracks have a trademark jerky, bouncy motion as their linked shoe system has to constantly re-engage with the ground during heavy duties. Frequent impacts and shock loads take a toll on both the tracks and undercarriage components in the long run. Modern suspensions try mitigating this but rubber tracks still allow more comfortable and operator-friendly operation.
Maintenance Requirements
Steel tracks need constant attention—daily greasing of bushings and pins, monthly cleaning and inspection of rollers/idlers along with periodic part replacements. Neglecting maintenance sharply reduces their lifespan. Rubber tracks are almost maintenance-free with no greasing or waterproofing required. They simply roll over obstacles without collecting mud or debris between the pads. Self-cleaning action is a major plus point, reducing downtime for cleaning.
In summary, steel tracks are the tough, durable choice for applications involving heavy loads or severe working conditions. Their load carrying ability makes them ideal for mining, defense, forestry, quarrying and other extreme tasks. However, rubber tracks deliver outstanding floatation, traction and ride quality making them suitable for landscaping, agriculture, wastewater treatment and other fluid operations requiring minimal ground disturbance. Choosing between the two mainly depends on the specific job requirements and intended application scope.
In my last article I wrote about running Subliminal Tracks Reviewone's life like a business, with mission, core competency/product, sales and marketing and money management.
I define transferable skills as core competencies that we have developed that can be used almost anywhere.
Obsolescence occurs when one's core competency skills are no longer needed by the market.Many people learned their core competency in college or trade schools which is a great place to start.
The problem I see with this is that many also fall in to the trap many businesses have, lack of or change in the market demand for those skills or product.
Business must constantly be aware of the demand for their product, watch for trends in it, and improve it or add to it over time in order to survive.
I also saw a lot of people stuck in their current job with no way to transfer to another one so I focused on moving around the corporation.I worked in the same bank for 18 years and public accounting for four during which time I earned a CPA certificate.
