Heavy equipment and vehicles are frequently used in oil drilling, construction, and other industrial projects. You will notice soft ground in such project areas where heavy vehicles and machinery may get stuck and damaged. Rig mats in such scenarios may come to the rescue. Continue reading to learn more about rig mats and their uses. 

Rig Mats Overview

Rig mats are artificial and portable platforms used in drilling, construction, military operations, disaster relief, and many other events. Sturdy materials like steel, wood, or composite stuff are used for rig mat production. It makes the platform robust and durable enough to take the load of heavy vehicles, equipment, and machines. Drilling rig mats create solid platforms for heavy rigs, while in construction, they are used to prevent equipment from getting stuck in the mud and create temporary roads for smooth operation. They are also used to build temporary landing zones for helicopters or create sturdy pathways for heavy tanks, keeping military operations running smoothly. In the below section, we will discuss the diverse uses of rig mats in detail.

Rig Mat Uses

Rig mats’ widespread utilities are as follows: 

1. Rig mats are used in construction to create stable work surfaces, make access roads, work areas, etc. 
2. Following disasters, rig mats can be used as service roads. They can also be used for helicopter landing zones.
3. Rig mats are also used in military operations, such as developing temporary bases. They also make equipment transportation easier in challenging environments.
4. In drilling, they are used to create robust platforms for heavy equipment, machinery, and vehicles. Drilling rig mats also play a critical role in protecting the ground from damage.
5. Event organizers often use rig mats to create temporary structures like walkways, floors, etc. Their uses are common in concerts, public festivals, sporting events, etc. 
6. Landfills and recycling facilities use rig mats for access roads and work areas that handle heavy vehicles.

Rig mats, also known as drilling mats or access mats, are heavy-duty platforms used in construction, oil and gas, mining, and other industries to provide stable ground for heavy equipment and vehicles. They are typically made of materials like wood, composite, steel, or a combination of these. Here are some of the primary uses of rig mats:

1. Stabilizing Soft or Uneven Ground: Rig mats create a stable surface over soft, muddy, or uneven terrain, allowing heavy machinery to operate safely and efficiently.
2. Protecting the Environment: By providing a stable surface, rig mats help prevent soil erosion and minimize damage to vegetation and other natural features in sensitive areas.
3. Access Roads and Work Platforms: They are often used to construct temporary access roads and work platforms in remote or difficult-to-reach locations, enabling the transportation and operation of heavy equipment.
4. Supporting Heavy Loads: Rig mats distribute the weight of heavy machinery and equipment, reducing the risk of ground subsidence and improving safety.
5. Temporary Flooring: In construction sites, rig mats can be used as temporary flooring to create safe walkways and work areas for personnel.
6. Oil and Gas Industry: In drilling operations, rig mats provide a stable foundation for rigs and other equipment, ensuring operational efficiency and safety.
7. Event and Infrastructure Projects: They are also used in large-scale events and infrastructure projects to support stages, grandstands, and temporary structures.

Get the Right Rig Mat for Your Needs from GFI Solutions LTD

GFI Solutions LTD is a trusted supplier of matting solutions in Western Canada. We are also excited to bring our top-class rig mats

to the Eastern Canadian market! We understand the challenges of working on soft terrain, and our durable rig mats are the answer to keeping your equipment stable, your worksite protected, and your operations running smoothly. We offer a variety of products ranging from rig mats to access mats and rubber mats to swamp mats and crane mats. We also deliver temporary access bridges and cross-laminated timber mats. 

In the rig mats category, our inventory is not just limited to traditional products. We also offer highly efficient SiteSafe™ CLT rig mats created to outclass traditional solutions. This top-performing rig mat is the product of pioneer engineering and is made of sustainable materials. Visit our product pages to learn more about our diverse product categories and their perks.