PTFE Skidway Plates

PTFE skidway plates are used to aid the skidding of topsides, jackets and other heavy fabrications. Structures weighing up to 30000 tonnes have been successfully loaded out on PTFE skidways. We offer a range of PTFE skidway plates to suit customers individual requirements. A typical PTFE skidway plates consists of 2.5mm thick reinforced PTFE hot cure factory bonded under controlled conditions to a 3mm thick carbon steel plate. PTFE skidway plates are normally manufactured with a 25mm welding lip. This prevents the PTFE from being damaged when the skidway plates are tack welded into position. The PTFE / steel bond line and all upper exposed carbon steel surfaces are generally supplied painted with a coat of primer to protect against corrosion.

We are able to offer reinforced PTFE with dimples spread uniformly across the skidding surface. The purpose of the dimples is to retain additional lubricant.

Typical coefficient of friction values are 5 to 10% for static and 1 to 5% for dynamic. These values are based upon the correct installation of the PTFE skidway plates, surface finish of the timber skid shoes and the application of additional lubricant.

We recommend the use of additional lubricant to reduce the initial static friction caused by absorbent timber skid shoes, lengthy construction periods, uneven loading and construction site debris.

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