Industrial movers have a new option for moving machines and equipment. The Enerpac Load Moving Skates offer a simple and effective solution when moving heavy equipment around a factory – especially when space is restricted.

Sometimes referred to as dollies, machine moving skates, and roller skids, these names are mostly interchangeable, as the tools all do the same thing – which is to slip under the load, reduce drag forces and make the move easy, efficient, and safe.

The Enerpac MLS-Series wheeled load skates are a safe and stable option for machinery relocation and installation. When it comes to safety, the compact MLS-Series features a stable, wide footprint with padded tops for a non-slip surface. It’s low-height design is ideal for minimal lift heights and to accommodate limited clearance above loads. It’s also versatile. The MLSS models provides good directional movement. Meanwhile the MLSR models feature 360-degree movement is ideal for tight spaces.

The MLS-Series is also easy to use. It features low rolling and rotational resistance. Additionally, its simple set up means even relatively new rigging operators can operate the equipment. The Enerpac MLS-Series Wheeled Load Skates offer a cost-effective option for moving heavy equipment in restricted spaces. Available in three versions to meet specific moving requirements, the range includes MLSR Rotational Skates, MLSF Steerable Skates and MLSD Dual Trailing Rear Skates. Sets are also available that include the MLSF and MLSD skates.

The low-profile MLS-Series Wheeled Load Skates are available in a wide range of load capacities from 3 to 35 tons with set load capacities available from 6 to 70 tons. They use rugged and reliable bearings for low rolling resistance and durability, and standard durable polyurethane wheels. Optional nylon rollers are available for increased wear resistance, prevention of setting under static loads, and increased protection against floor damage.

Load Moving Skates and Dollies for Every Project

There are different types of load-moving skates to choose from, each with varying features for a wide spectrum of machine-moving applications. 

Tonnage - the capacity of individual load skates ranges from just a single ton all the way up to 35-tons. Knowing the weight of the load ensures the correct skates configuration. As an example, if the load weighs 70-tons and a skate set is being used the load will be shared between the front and rear load skates. In this instance, the front and rear skates must have the capacity to handle a minimum of 35-tons each.

Tug Assisted vs Manual - two types of T bars to pull and steer the load include manual T bars and towable handles. When moving loads of 10-tons or more, the chances are these will be too heavy to move manually. For this reason, the larger capacity load skates often have a towable ring handle provided either as standard or as an option. This will allow the load to be moved with powered assistance.

Rotational Skates

Enerpac MLSR Series Load Moving Skates offer 360-degree rotational movement using castor style wheel boxes. They are typically available in 3, 7, and 9-ton models and include nylon wheels as standard. 

Steerable Front Skates 

Enerpac MLSF Series Load Moving Skates feature steerable front skates offering controllable directional movement using integral turntables that provide the flexibility to steer the load. Advantages are manoeuvrability along with low displacement force and low rolling resistance. They are commonly used at the front of the load and often work in combination with trailing rear skates to form a stable 3 point moving system. The pulling handles are normally included and will be either the manual T type (on the 3 to 7-ton models) or the towable type for larger models. 

Dual Trailing Rear Skates 

Enerpac MLSD Series Load Moving Skates usually consist of two skates linked together with one or more connecting bars. The bars are generally available in different lengths or may be adjustable to suit different load widths. They are not steerable and simply trail the front steerable skates. Load capacities and wheel materials typically match the front steerable skates.

Load Skates Sets

A simple way to select the right equipment is to buy an Enerpac pre-configured set. If requirements change extra modules and accessories are available to widen the scope for load moving jobs, for example for different sized loads, or for loads where the weight is not distributed equally.

For more details, visit www.enerpac.com