Aluminium Ramps for Plant & Machinery FAQs
What length ramp do I need?
For safety reasons we recommend our aluminium ramps for plan & machinery are not used at a gradient over 30% (16.5 degrees) – no TUV certified ramp is designed to exceed this gradient. To calculate your gradient, measure the vertical height from the ground to where the ramp will rest and multiply this figure by 3.3 to give you your ideal ramp length.
What if I need a specific length or width?
The Ramp Factory is able to build to order custom ramps to fulfil your requirements. Please contact our team to discuss this further so we can provide a quote from our factory.
Can The Ramp Factory make ramps with other special applications/customisations?
We can create a wide range of aluminium and steel extrusions to solve many uncommon loading problems. We have previously manufactured plant ramps for drilling rigs, unloading barges, custom built truck ramps, vehicle ramps for the MOD and oil industry. We can also create bespoke ramps for wheelchair use and disabled access.
Do the ramps have a minimum load height they can be used with?
We would not recommend you use the ramps lower than the stated minimum load height as the bottom of the ramp will not sit flat on the ground, meaning it will rock while in use. For custom solutions, please contact our customer services team.
Do the ramps have a maximum load height they can be used with?
Yes, if used above the maximum load height specified the ramp will be too steep and could cause injury or accidents. As with using the ramps below the minimum load height, if you use it above the maximum load height the foot of the ramp would not sit flat on the floor causing them to be unsafe. This would also void the warranty.
Should I allow extra capacity when selecting the ramps for safety?
The Ramp Factory ramps are made to European TUV standards which require the ramps to build in a 200% safety so there is no need to allow extra capacity if your maximum capacity is selected accurately. You need to consider: the weight of the machine, the load weight, the operator, fuel, oil and attachments as well as the wheelbase. It is important to note that the wheelbase can impact the maximum capacity of the ramp as a smaller wheelbase will mean a smaller capacity – this information is detailed on the product specifications. If you exceed the maximum weight capacity this would void the warranty.
How durable are aluminium ramps compared to steel?
If the ramps are used correctly there is no reason why aluminium ramps should not last as long as steel. They should also last longer than steel ramps with wooden inserts.
What does “minimum track width” mean?
This is the narrowest tyre/track from the vehicle that can be used on the ramps. This is to ensure the weight is spread across the surface to increase the length of time the ramp will last.
Can I load a forklift on the plant ramps?
As forklifts have a very low ground clearance and are not designed to operate on inclines, they need extremely long ramps. You should double check with our customer services team before purchasing a plant ramp to be used with your forklift. We do offer a range of container ramps designed for forklifts. They also have solid wheels which can damage the surfaces of the ramps so we often have to supply a reinforced model.
Can I load steel tracked equipment?
The Ramp Factory has a range of ramps with rubber coated or milled surfaces that are suitable for use with tracked equipment. The surfaces allow the steel tracks to be used on aluminium ramps without damaging them. Our standard vehicle and plant ramps are NOT suitable.
Can I use a winch to assist with loading equipment?
Winches alter the normal weight distribution when loading machine and equipment which means the stated weight limits are hugely reduced when using a winch. They can be used but you must take great care when using them – the main thing is to keep the rope of the winch parallel with the ramp. If you intend to use a winch, please make this clear to our customer services team before you purchase so they can assist.
How do I secure the ramps to my vehicle when using them?
Safety is our primary concern and so we can provide several secure connection options to suit your requirements. Many of our ramps are supplied with our movable safety devices that slide in the extrusion under the loading lip – this device should be placed between the lorry bed and the tailgate to secure the ramps in plate. This will ensure the ramps do not shift while in use. The ramps are also supplied with bolts and the loading lips of the ramps are pre-drilled to accommodate these – the bolts are placed through the hole and hold the ramp in place. Our low loader ramps have underside tie bars for attaching a strap or chain. You can view our other connection options here. The standard connection supplied is a rest on connection – any alternative connections mean the ramps need to be customised so there is an additional fee of £100 +VAT.
Do the ramps have safety edges?
The ramps are built with a flat top and no edges unless specified. If edges are required, the ramps need to be customised so additional charges may apply and there would be a longer lead time. Please also note, the edges decrease the usable width.
Product Dimensions – please note, due to manufacturing techniques and processes all dimensions of products may vary by up to 2% of the dimensions shown on the website. The only exception to this is the length of our vehicle ramps and loading ramps – the lengths shown may vary by up to 5% depending upon the connection chosen. If you require a specific length, please contact our customer services team.