Latest News

Composite vs. Wood/Aluminum Outrigger Pads

Outrigger pads are used for cranes, lifts, fire truck equipment, drill equipment, and more to distribute weight over the ground and improve stability. Common outrigger pad materials include composite, wood, and aluminum. For most applications, composite pads outperform traditional wood and aluminum outrigger pads in terms of longevity, corrosion resistance, and durability. Here, we’ll compare the features of composite pads, wood pads, and aluminum pads to help you choose the right solution for your project.

Composite Pads

Manufacturers produce composite outrigger pads from materials like thermosets and fiberglass-reinforced plastic (FRP). These materials are typically more versatile and corrosion-resistant than other types of outrigger pads. Key benefits of composite pads include:

• Durability: Composite pads last much longer than metal and wood, especially in environments with temperature extremes, chemical exposure, moisture, and wear. Composite outrigger pads do not conduct electricity and are resistant to weakening, warping, or cracking throughout their long service life.
• Corrosion resistance: Composite materials work well in marine and industrial environments because the synthetic material won’t rust or corrode. These pads also prevent metal-on-metal contact and the resulting corrosion and wear. 
• Recyclability: Many manufacturers produce composite pads from recycled materials. The pads can also be recycled once again at the end of the product lifecycle.
• Lightweight: Composite materials generally weigh less than metal or wood. A composite outrigger pad can be a quarter of the weight of an aluminum pad and one-seventh the weight of a steel pad.
• Versatility: Manufacturers can create composite pads in virtually any size and shape.

Wood Pads

Made from natural resources, wooden outrigger pads are a popular choice in niche applications. However, they have several drawbacks that make them unsuitable for use with heavy-duty industrial equipment:

• Susceptible to damage: Compared to composite and aluminum, wood doesn’t last as long because it is susceptible to damage from the elements, rot, cracking, decay, and pest infestation. Users will need to replace wood pads more often. 
• High maintenance: Because they are more prone to damage, wood pads must be maintained with regular staining, sealing, and cleaning to prolong their service life. 
• Environmental impact: Unless manufacturers specifically use sustainable sources of wood, demand for wood pads may contribute to deforestation. 

Aluminum Pads

Aluminum pads are also popular for certain applications, but they weigh more than composite and wood pads. Other disadvantages include:

• Conducts heat and cold: Aluminum pads can conduct heat or cold between surfaces, which may be undesirable in certain commercial and industrial settings. 
• Can corrode: While aluminum resists many types of damage, it’s not fully corrosion-resistant in some environments. 
• Noisy: When struck or otherwise contacted by other objects, aluminum pads can produce more noise than wood or composite pads. 

Composite Pads From WS Hampshire

Wood, aluminum, and composite pads are the most common options for many applications, but composite pads outshine wood and aluminum pads in most areas. For over 100 years, WS Hampshire has been a leading manufacturer of custom non-metallic materials for use in critical industrial applications. We produce high-quality composite outrigger pads in standard and custom shapes for use in virtually any work environment. 

Our robust Ryertex thermosets and Timco thermoplastics are designed for long-lasting performance in a broad range of tough industrial applications, including steel and aluminum mills, cranes, aerial work platforms, industrial saws, and other equipment. Contact us today to learn more about the benefits of our composite outrigger pads or to start your order.

Ryertex G10 & G11 for Data Centers, Renewable Energy, and Emerging Technologies

CNC-Machined Ryertex G10 & G11 for Power Systems

In today’s rapidly evolving energy landscape, structural and insulating laminates play a vital role in ensuring efficiency, safety, and durability. Whether in data centers, renewable energy systems, or groundbreaking fusion technology, high-performance materials like Ryertex G10 and G11 are essential for withstanding extreme electrical, thermal, and mechanical stresses. At WS Hampshire, we specialize in CNC machining high-performance composite materials to support your high-demand applications.

Why Ryertex G10 and G11?

Ryertex G10 is a fiberglass-reinforced G10 plastic laminate with epoxy resin, valued for its exceptional electrical insulation, mechanical strength, and heat resistance. G11, a high-temperature variation, offers enhanced thermal stability for challenging environments. These advanced insulating laminates are widely used in data center power systems, solar and wind energy applications, and next-generation technologies like fusion energy.

Key Material Properties:

Ryertex G11 and G10 material properties include:

• High Dielectric Strength – Ensures electrical insulation in high-voltage environments.
• Superior Mechanical Strength – Provides long-lasting structural integrity.
• Heat and Flame Resistance – G11 withstands up to 180°C, making it ideal for demanding thermal applications, while G10 materials perform well up to 130°C.
• Chemical and Moisture Resistance – Ensures durability in harsh environments.
• Low Thermal Expansion – Maintains dimensional stability under fluctuating temperatures.

CNC-Machined Ryertex G10 & G11 Components for Advanced Power Applications

Our precision CNC machining capabilities allow us to fabricate custom components from G11 and G10 composite materials. We can meet the needs of the following industries:

Data Center Power Infrastructure

Modern data centers require uninterruptible power systems, high-voltage switchgear, and cooling infrastructure to maintain 24/7 reliability.

• Busbar Insulation & Supports – Prevents electrical faults and enhances safety.
• Phase Barriers & Arc Shields – Protects against arc flash hazards.
• Battery Energy Storage Insulation – Improves the safety and efficiency of backup power systems.
• Cooling System Components – Ensures heat resistance in liquid and air-cooled systems.

Renewable Energy Systems

As solar, wind, and energy storage continue to expand, Ryertex G10 and G11 play a crucial role in ensuring electrical insulation and mechanical durability in these systems.

• Wind Turbine Generator Insulation – Supports high-voltage electrical systems in wind power.
• Solar Panel Backing & Insulating Sheets – Enhances photovoltaic system efficiency and longevity.
• Battery Pack Insulation & Fire Barriers – Provides safety for large-scale energy storage.

Emerging Technologies: Fusion Energy & Advanced Power Systems

With fusion energy and next-generation power systems on the rise, advanced composite materials are needed to withstand extreme conditions.

• Plasma Containment Insulation – G11’s high-temperature tolerance makes it ideal for fusion applications.
• High-Voltage Insulating Components – Used in superconducting magnets and power transmission.
• Cryogenic & Thermal Insulation Structures – Supports emerging energy research projects.

Partner with Us for the Future of Energy

From CNC-machined Ryertex G10 plastic components to custom G11 solutions, WS Hampshire can deliver solutions that meet the toughest electrical and thermal demands. Our expertise in G11 and G10 material machining, combined with our commitment to precision manufacturing, makes us go-to resource for companies seeking cutting-edge solutions in power infrastructure.

Whether you need solutions for data centers, renewable energy, or fusion technology, the experts at WS Hampshire are here to provide high-quality, custom-produced, CNC-machined electrical insulation and composite components.

Contact us today to discuss your project needs and discover how our capabilities can help power the future!