Cribbing is the backbone of stability in the process of storing mods, pods, and panels. A crucial factor in safely and properly supporting components is selecting the appropriate modular cribbing materials. Typically, cribbing blocks are made from sturdy substances like wood, steel or plastic — but the type of cribbing material you use depends on many different variables. In this article, we examine the pros and cons of each material in different use cases, so you can ensure your mods arrive at the build site without having shifted or moved during transport and storage.
Wood is the most common cribbing material choice thanks to its wide availability and the fact that wooden cribs are easy to build. It offers plenty of strength and durability, but can vary based on wood species.
Wood is relatively inexpensive compared to other cribbing materials like metal or composite blocks. Most regions in North America have easy access to lumber, which contributes to its affordability and sourceability. Though wood can vary in cost based on type, lumber yards and suppliers usually carry a variety so you can find the best fit for your cribbing needs and budget.
Not all lumber is the same! Hardwoods like oak or maple have the highest load-bearing capabilities, making them more suitable for known heavy mods. Soft woods — such as Douglas Fir and Southern Pine — are best in situations where the load capacity is unknown or emergency scenarios because they are flexible and creak or give other audible warning signs when overloaded.
Wood is easy to cut and build with, making it an ideal material for cribbing blocks, which need to be precision-shaped to ensure a secure fit when stacked together.
Wood is a viscoelastic material that maintains its shape and strength while dissipating the energy it absorbs. It is useful for protecting modules from vibrations or impacts while supporting and stabilizing them.
Wood does not conduct electricity, unlike some metals, and thus it is useful in applications where electrical safety is a concern.
If you’re looking to implement sustainable practices into your project, wood is a renewable resource that has lower carbon emissions than some of the other typical cribbing materials.
One of the pros of wood cribbing is its load-bearing capacity. But, in comparison to other materials such as metal or composite blocks, wood is not quite as strong. The heaviest loads should use alternative cribbing materials.
Wood is prone to eventual wear and tear, such as surface damage, splintering, or cracking. It also absorbs moisture, so exposure to moisture or storage in damp environments can compromise the structural integrity of wood cribbing.
The cost and availability of wood can vary greatly depending on local market conditions. Depending on your location, alternative materials can be more cost-effective in certain regions and industries.
Unlike steel stand cribs, which stack within themselves, wood cribbing blocks will take up more space when not in use and have a higher chance of toppling over.
Steel is the most commonly recommended metal option for cribbing blocks due to its strength, durability, and load-bearing capacity. Carbon, structural, and alloy steel are some of the types and grades available within this category.
Steel is one of the strongest and most widely used metals in the world due to its inherent strength and rigidity. Its structural integrity offers reliable, stable support for the heaviest modules and equipment.
Steel cribbing is highly durable, able to withstand harsh conditions, exposure to the elements, and heavy use.
Non-combustible and resistant to many chemicals, steel cribbing is appropriate for environments where fire hazards or exposure to corrosive substances is a concern.
Because of their ability to withstand rugged conditions and support the heaviest equipment, steel cribbing blocks are ideal for industrial applications such as mining, construction, and offshore operations.
Manufacturers can produce steel cribbing with precise dimensions and tolerances to enhance module stability with accurate stacking, interlocking, and alignment. Stackability also makes for easy storage when not in use.
The smooth surfaces of steel cribs make it relatively easy to wash, wipe away, and remove dirt, debris, and other contaminants.
Transporting and setting up steel cribbing can be difficult due to their weight.
When you factor in raw materials and manufacturing costs, steel is usually more expensive than wood or other materials. It often takes more time, as well, to manufacture steel cribs than to cut wood blocks, for example.
When steel cribbing blocks are exposed to moisture, humidity, or harsh environments, corrosion can compromise their structural integrity and durability over time. Coatings, galvanization, or other corrosion-protection methods may extend the life of your cribbing.
Steel blocks may damage — both cosmetically and functionally, the surface of the modules they support. Consider using protective measures such as rubber or polyurethane padding to protect mods in this cribbing scenario.
Compared to wood, rubber, and polyurethane, metal cribbing is relatively poor in absorbing shock and thus protecting modules from vibrations and impacts while supporting them.
Metal can conduct electricity and has high thermal conductivity, which means it can quickly transfer heat or cold. Thus, it is not best for situations in which electrical safety is a concern or temperature differentials or insulation are important.
Modular cribbing materials that are lightweight, moisture-resistant, and non-conductive are most suitable in electrical or marine environments. Plastic and composite materials (a combination of resins, fibers, and additives) can offer the necessary qualities for these building situations.
Plastic cribbing is incredibly lightweight, making it easy to transport and position.
Plastic cribbing may be your safest option when fire hazards, exposure to corrosive substances, and electrical safety are concerns.
When it comes to cribbing, plastic is often the most budget-friendly option.
Compared to steel in particular, plastic can not support the highest loads.
Depending on the type of plastic, it can be easily damaged, impacting its structural integrity and ability to safely support modules.
Manufacturing plastic comes with environmental consequences that may factor into your decision about cribbing.
The raw materials and manufacturing processes necessary to produce composite cribbing make it more expensive than some of the other materials.
When considering alternative materials for cribbing blocks, it’s essential to assess the specific requirements of the application, including load capacity, environmental conditions, safety regulations, and cost-effectiveness. Consulting with experts or engineers in your industry can provide valuable insights and recommendations for the most suitable material choices for your specific needs.
Choosing the best modular cribbing materials depends on a multitude of factors – the nature of your project, the equipment you’re working with, and your budget. Evaluate your needs and consult with experts like Stream Modular before making your choice, as your modular cribbing material choice will play a pivotal role in the stability and success of your project.
Our transport team can help you match materials to your build plan.
Let’s talk cribbing →
Stream Modular is a transportation logistics company specializing exclusively in modular construction. We help modular manufacturers and builders transport mods, pods and panels so they arrive on time and safely to the build site.
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