Nuclear power has become an essential part of the electricity grid in the U.S. These plants are typically used as base load stations that provide a consistent and reliable source of electricity that can be supplemented by plants powered by coal, gas or renewable power. Each of the 100 nuclear reactors that are operating at 60 plants across the country needs to undergo regular maintenance, and crane mats are often required during these maintenance cycles.
Nuclear power plants usually have preplanned shutdowns for refueling and other routine maintenance. The facilities typically plan these shutdowns during the spring or fall months when electricity demand is lowest, and schedule them every 18 to 24 months. Refueling outages and routine maintenance projects typically last about six weeks, and in addition to replacing between one third and one half of the fuel during these scheduled outages, a variety of other routine maintenance is performed while workers have access to areas of the plant that are not normally available.
Our crane mats are an important tool in nuclear plant maintenance. Power plant maintenance often involves the use of heavy equipment like cranes. Maintenance plans are required to specify how the impact load of these cranes and other heavy equipment will be managed. The ideal solution? Hardwood crane mats.
Crane mats can provide a safe and solid foundation for heavy lifts or temporary roads during nuclear plant maintenance. They also improve the ability of heavy equipment to move without damaging the surfaces or ground below, helping to reduce the risk of damage to underground service connections or concrete surfaces.
Ritter Forest Products maintains a large inventory of hardwood crane mats for rent or sale. We are ready to deliver mats and timbers to job sites throughout North America, Canada and other international locations.
Contact us today to learn more about our crane mats for the power industry!
