Skid steer ott tracks

Exploring the Skid Steer OTT Tracks Market Landscape

Market Overview: The global market for skid steer loaders, which includes skid steer OTT tracks, was valued at approximately $2.3 billion in 2023 and is projected to grow to $2.7 billion by 2030, with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 2.3% during this period. This growth is driven by an increasing demand for equipment that can operate efficiently in diverse terrains, particularly in construction and agricultural applications. The operating capacity segment above 2,200 lbs is expected to see robust growth, reaching around $1.6 billion by 2030, indicating a shift towards more powerful machinery. Additionally, the global OTR tire market, closely linked to skid steer operations, is forecasted to expand from $9.64 billion in 2023 to $10.41 billion in 2024, with an impressive CAGR of 8.11% projected to reach $16.65 billion by 2030, underscoring the rising need for durable tires that can withstand the rigors of off-road activities.

Industry Insights: The skid steer OTT tracks market is influenced by several factors, including the rapid urbanization and infrastructure development worldwide, which is expected to drive demand for construction machinery. As construction activities surge, the need for skid steers equipped with specialized OTT tracks becomes crucial for enhancing traction and stability on challenging terrains. In North America, the market is particularly strong due to significant investments in infrastructure upgrades, while the Asia-Pacific region is witnessing a growing emphasis on cost-effective solutions without compromising quality. Furthermore, developments in tire technology, focusing on durability and performance, are pivotal in shaping consumer preferences. This evolution in skid steer machinery is not only addressing customer pain points related to maintenance and operational efficiency but also aligning with the broader trend towards sustainability in the manufacturing of industrial equipment.

Types of skid steer OTT tracks

New machinery can be expensive for some businesses. Therefore, they may look for a skid steer OTT track that is used and cheaper but can offer good performance. Some people prefer buying older models since they are well tested over time.

In addition, a variety of new and improved products have different benefits to suit the needs of each industry. Buying trends indicated that many people prefer rubber tracks to steel ones. However, there is a shifting demand based on industrial needs and preferences. The table below summarizes some benefits and drawbacks of each type.

• Rubber tracks

  They are mostly used in smaller, high-speed, and lightweight machines. People prefer them since they offer a smoother ride, are quieter, and protect delicate surfaces from damage. They are suitable for use in construction areas where there are pavements and other fragile materials. Rubber tracks skid steers are also faster than their steel counterparts. However, their performance can be adversely affected by muddy and slippery terrains.

• Steel tracks

  They are used in larger and heavier machinery. They provide better traction and durability, especially in tough and off-terrain areas. Steel tracks are strong, long-lasting, and resistant to wear and tear, making them suitable for dealing with heavier tasks. They can also withstand extreme temperatures and roughest jobs. However, they can damage delicate and smooth surfaces and produce more noise than rubber tracks.

Specification and Maintenance of Skid Steer OTT Tracks

The following specifications apply to often OTT tracks for skid steers:

• Sizes: The OTT tracks can come in various sizes to fit specific wheel loaders. Common sizes are from 8 to 20 inches in width and 45 to 80 inches in length. The size of the OTT track shouldn’t be more than the outer diameter of the wheel. Skid steers with larger sizes may need a custom OTT track.
• Weight Capacity: OTT tracks should have a weight capacity that is able to support the skid steer’s rated operating capacity. A good way to do this is to know the weight of the goods and the maximum capacity of the skid steer. Then, choose an OTT track with a weight capacity that is equal to or higher than the figure.
• Material: OTT tracks can be made of robust urethane or rubber compounds. The materials can provide superior flexibility, wear resistance, and load capacity.
• Design: OTT tracks' design affects their performance and compatibility with skid steers. Some OTT track designs include a cross pattern and a diamond pattern. The cross pattern provides multidirectional traction and flexibility. On the other hand, the diamond pattern provides excellent surface grip and stability.

Maintenance Tips

Skid steer rubber tracks need maintenance to prolong their service life. Here are a few useful maintenance tips:

• Clean Tracks Regularly: Use a pressure washer or hosepipe to remove dirt, mud, and debris from tracks.
• Check for Damage: Always do a visual inspection of the tracks to know if there's any cut, crack, or abnormal wear. Find and fix any damage quickly to avoid it getting worse.
• Maintain Proper Tension: Put the correct tension on the track. This will help in preventing excessive wear and ensuring proper contact with the ground and rollers.
• Lubricate Components: Lubricate moving parts like pivot points and rollers. This reduces friction and prevents premature wear.
• Store Properly: If the track is not in use, store it properly. Find a cool and dry place and away from direct sunlight. This would prevent aging and deterioration of the material.

Scenarios

Skid steers with extreme terrain tracks are versatile machines that can be used in many industry scenarios, including the construction industry, landscaping and nurseries, agriculture and farms, infrastructure projects, log yard operations, and urban mining and underground projects.

Some of the most common usage scenarios include:

• Construction Projects:

  Extreme terrain tracks are commonly used to move materials and complete tasks efficiently in many construction projects. The tasks skid steers handle range from digging, backfilling, loading, unloading, and excavation to demolishing. Also, extreme terrain tracks enhance the machine's ability to navigate rough terrain and provide stability on uneven surfaces.

• Landscaping and Nursery Projects:

  In landscaping projects and plant nurseries and gardens, skid steers with extreme terrain tracks are ideal for tasks like grading, trenching, and moving plants and soil. They can be used to create garden features, install irrigation systems, and construct pathways and retaining walls. The gentle movement of the machine also ensures that existing plants and structures are not damaged.

• Agriculture and Farm Operations:

  Extreme terrain track skid steers are well-suited for agricultural tasks in farms and pastures. They can be used for livestock feeding, clearing fields, planting crops, and fencing. Extreme terrain skid steers provide farmers and ranchers with the flexibility to handle various tasks and access different areas of their property.

• Infrastructure Projects:

  Extreme terrain skid steers are available in many sizes to suit different project needs. They are used in large infrastructure projects like road construction, building railway lines, and lay water pipelines. Depending on the project's size, the machine navigates easily in tight spaces and rough terrain while providing power for heavy-duty tasks like digging and backfilling.

• Log Yard Operations:

  In a lumber yard, extreme skid steers can handle tasks like log debarking, stacking cut lumber, and loading finished products onto trucks. They are easy to use in confined spaces around the yard or warehouse. The good lift capacity and visibility of the skid steer help operators with the range of operational tasks like loading and unloading lumber from shelves.

• Urban and Underground Mining:

  Skid steers with extreme terrain tracks can easily navigate narrow tunnels and excavated areas, accessing tight spaces in urban and mining areas. They are used to install ventilation shafts, and pipeline supports and to move materials through tunnels. The machine's stability on uneven or crumbly surfaces helps extraction operations to be more productive.

How to choose skid steer OTT tracks

When choosing a new set of skid steer OTT rubber tracks, there are several things business buyers should consider to ensure they purchase the perfect set for their needs.

• Determine needs and requirements

  Firstly, buyers should assess the application's terrain and load capacity. Buyers have to consider the types of surfaces the equipment will be running on. If it will mainly be used on soft, uneven surfaces, purchasing tracks with good floatation and traction is necessary. On the other hand, for rough, rocky terrains, selecting tracks with a robust tread pattern for excellent traction is ideal. Also, buyers should consider the load capacity and weight of the equipment. If it carries a heavy load, then selecting heavy-duty tracks that can support higher load capacities is a must.

• Choosing the right tread pattern

  There are various tread patterns available, and each suits different applications and terrains. Buisness buyers should choose according to their needs. A multi-directional tread provides excellent traction on various terrains. It's commonly used in sandy and muddy terrains. An L-shaped tread pattern provides great traction and is commonly used in rough terrains with varied surfaces. A circular pattern provides ideal movement and traction and is usually used for sandy or muddy terrains. A straight groove pattern offers excellent movement and is commonly used in linking surfaces.

• Quality of the material

  Buyers should choose tracks with high-quality tracks. Rubber with high abrasion resistance offers durability and comfort, while polyurethane provides higher tensile strength and load capacities. Additionally, when buying steel core tracks, buyers should ensure that the steel cables are of high quality to provide better support and stability.

• Compatibility with skid steer model

  Skid steers come in different models, and their dimensions vary. When purchasing the OTTs, ensure they are compatible with the specific skid steer model. Check its size, weight, and fitting mechanism, and consult with the supplier if necessary.

FAQ

Q1: What are some tips for maintaining rubber tracks for skid steers?

A1: Some tips for maintaining skid steer rubber tracks are to clean the tracks regularly, inspect the tracks for signs of wear and damage, check the track tension, and ensure proper lubrication.

Q2: Can skid steer tracks be repaired?

A2: In some cases, if there is minor damage like a tread split or a small crack, the tracks can be repaired using a patch. But, if there is significant damage like a large tear or track deterioration, it is always advisable to replace the tracks.

Q3: How long do skid steer tracks last?

A3: Generally, if they are well maintained, rubber tracks for skid steers can last between 5,000 and 10,000 armored, and some even up to 15,000 to 20,000 hours.

Q4: What ride quality can people expect from steel tracks?

A4: Steel tracks offer a rough ride similar to other heavier-duty tracks. However, they provide superior traction and durability, especially in challenging terrain or heavy industrial applications.

Q5: What happens if the skid steer track is too loose or tight?

A5: If the track is too loose, it may come off the sprockets or cause excessive wear. On the other hand, if the track is too tight, it may put excess strain on the undercarriage components and lead to premature wear or damage.