How hydraulic stabilisers ensure safe and precise operations
The hydraulic stabiliser is an essential component for improving both the safety and efficiency of cranes used on construction sites and for loader operations. These devices are designed to reduce the risk of overturning and ensure optimal load distribution, thereby providing the best possible support during lifting activities. In this text, we will examine the advantages, types, and methods of using stabilisers.
Types of stabilisers for loader cranes
The institutions for workplace safety emphasises the importance of using stabilisers designed to adapt to uneven ground and guarantee safety during operations. There are two main types of stabilisers:
- Parking Jacks
These require direct operator intervention for positioning and securing. In addition, they are fitted with locking devices to ensure stability during work. - Hydraulic Stabilisers
These offer rapid and precise positioning through hydraulic activation. Equipped with safety valves and systems to prevent leaks or uncontrolled movements, they can compensate for ground irregularities and evenly distribute weight to maintain a low ground pressure
Owing to their versatility and ease of use, hydraulic stabilisers have become the most prevalent solution for operations requiring precision and high safety standards. Their ability to enhance operational stability and prevent risks makes them a priority choice in both the construction and industrial sectors.
The advantages of hydraulic stabilisers for cranes
Compared with mechanical systems, hydraulic stabilisers are designed to meet more complex operational requirements and ensure compliance with safety regulations.
Why use hydraulic stabilisers?
- They keep the crane stable: Hydraulic stabilisers maintain crane stability even on uneven surfaces, reducing the risk of overturning. This feature not only increases operator safety but also protects the integrity of loads and equipment.
- They operate with precision and safety: Thanks to their ability to adapt to ground conditions, hydraulic stabilisers allow for controlled, precise movements, minimising margins of error during lifting operations.
- They reduce the risk of accidents: A crane that is stabilised correctly, in line with the manufacturer’s instructions and current regulations, protects operators and anyone working nearby from potential incidents caused by instability.
- They have a long service life: Designed to withstand the most demanding stresses, hydraulic stabilisers provide high operational reliability even under the most challenging conditions.
- They shorten preparation times: Hydraulic activation enables quick and intuitive positioning, reducing set-up times and increasing overall productivity.
How should lorry-mounted crane stabilisers be positioned?
The institutions for workplace safety specify that correct stabiliser positioning is crucial for operational safety. Below are some guidelines:
- Selecting the ground: The ground must be sufficiently firm and level. On unstable or sloping surfaces, it is advisable to use suitable support bases to distribute the load evenly.
- Correct positioning: Stabilisers should be fully extended in accordance with the manufacturer’s guidelines. The use of parking jacks is recommended to ensure stable contact.
- Stability check: Before starting operations, ensure that the crane is fully stable and levelled. Clearly visible levelling indicators can help facilitate this check.
How to use lorry-mounted crane stabilisers
Proper use of stabilisers requires attention to several technical aspects:
- Operator training: Operators must receive appropriate training on how to position and use the stabilisers, following the instructions provided by the manufacturer.
- Regular maintenance: Stabilisers must undergo periodic checks to ensure they remain in perfect working order.
- Safety device inspections: Modern cranes are fitted with systems that alert the operator in the event of incomplete extension or incorrect stabiliser positioning.
Risks from incorrect use of stabilisers
If stabilisers are not positioned correctly or do not comply with the major standards such as UNI EN ISO 4254 and 12140, various types of injuries or incidents may occur:
- Crane overturning: Improper load distribution or incorrect stabiliser placement can cause the crane to overturn, endangering operators and bystanders. In the worst cases, this may result in crushing injuries.
- Ground failure: The absence of adequate support bases or unevenly distributed pressure on the ground could lead to ground collapse, resulting in loss of crane stability.
- Unstable load: Inadequate stabiliser positioning can cause load swings or slippage, risking the dropping of materials.
- Structural damage to the crane: Using stabilisers that do not comply with regulations may cause excessive stress on parts of the crane, undermining its structure and increasing the risk of mechanical failure.
- Injuries due to lack of locking: If stabilisers are not fitted with locking devices that meet regulatory standards, they may move during operation, potentially causing injuries or incidents.
- Collisions: Failure to signal stabiliser positions—for instance, on public roads—can result in collisions with other vehicles or pedestrians.
Why choose Rima hydraulic stabilisers?
Rima’s hydraulic stabilisers provide a technologically advanced solution to ensure maximum safety and reliability during lorry-mounted crane operations. Engineered to adapt to a variety of ground conditions, these stabilisers deliver exceptional stability thanks to advanced valve systems and high-quality materials. Additionally, to offer an extra level of safety, Rima’s hydraulic stabiliser can be equipped with integrated positioning sensors. These sensors send signals to the control unit to indicate when the stabiliser is correctly in its working position—fully extended—or in transport position—fully retracted.
Thanks to their precision, ease of use, and advanced technology, these stabilisers are the top choice for those looking to combine operational efficiency with high safety standards.
Explore our standard range of hydraulic stabilisers in our catalogue and contact us for more information!
