中文简体Chain-on rubber track pads are widely used on excavators and other tracked equipment to protect ground surfaces while maintaining machine stability and traction. However, choosing the wrong pads can lead to premature wear, poor fitment, frequent downtime, and unnecessary replacement costs. This practical rubber track pads selection guide explains how to choose track pads correctly based on machine type, tonnage, steel track size, and working conditions, helping buyers and contractors make a reliable and cost-effective decision.
What Are Chain-on Rubber Track Pads and Why Selection Matters
Chain-on rubber track pads are mounted as an integrated system along the steel track chain, forming a continuous protective running surface. Compared with modular pad systems, chain-on designs focus more on structural stability and load distribution. Because they work as part of the chain assembly, correct sizing and specification matching are critical. Proper selection directly affects service life, operating safety, and total ownership cost.
Choosing the right model ensures better durability, fewer failures, and improved performance across different job sites.
Step 1: Choose by Machine Type
The first step in any track pad selection process is identifying the machine category. Different equipment types place different loads and stress patterns on the undercarriage system.
Excavators
Excavators are the most common users of chain-on rubber track pads. Selection should consider operating weight, travel frequency, and ground contact needs. Urban-use excavators typically require higher surface protection and vibration reduction.
Milling Machines and Pavers
Road milling machines and pavers often operate directly on finished surfaces. Pads for these machines should prioritize smooth contact, heat resistance, and anti-marking performance.
Other Tracked Equipment
Other applications include tracked cranes, trenchers, and specialty construction machines. These often require reinforced pad structures and customized dimensions.
Step 2: Choose by Machine Tonnage
Machine tonnage determines load pressure and directly affects the required rubber thickness, internal reinforcement, and compound hardness. Selecting pads without considering tonnage often results in accelerated wear or structural failure.
Mini Machines (1–6 Ton)
Lightweight machines benefit from flexible rubber compounds and moderate thickness. The focus is on surface protection and ride comfort.
Medium Machines (7–20 Ton)
Medium-class equipment requires balanced specifications — good wear resistance combined with sufficient cushioning and stability.
Heavy Machines (20+ Ton)
Heavy-duty machines require high-strength rubber compounds, thicker pad bodies, and reinforced chain-on structures to handle sustained loads and harsh terrain.
Step 3: Choose by Steel Track Chain Size
Correct measurement of the steel track chain is one of the most important steps in the track pad sizing chart process. Chain-on pads must match the chain geometry precisely to ensure secure mounting and even load transfer.
Key Measurements Needed
Buyers should confirm the following parameters before ordering:
- Track shoe width
- Chain pitch
- Link height
- Hole spacing and mounting geometry
- Original chain model number
Why Incorrect Sizing Causes Failure
Mismatched dimensions can cause uneven stress, bolt shear, pad shifting, and abnormal wear patterns. In severe cases, pads may detach during operation. Always verify measurements or request a supplier sizing chart before production.
Step 4: Choose by Working Conditions
Working environment plays a major role in how to choose track pads correctly. Rubber formulation, tread pattern, and pad thickness should match the ground conditions.
Urban Construction Sites
Urban projects require strong road protection and low noise. Pads should use elastic compounds and non-marking surfaces, with tread designs that reduce vibration and slip.
Mining and Quarry Applications
Mining environments demand maximum wear resistance and tear strength. Harder rubber compounds and reinforced internal structures are recommended for these high-impact conditions.
Road and Asphalt Work
Roadwork applications require heat-resistant rubber and stable contact surfaces. Pads should resist cutting and thermal aging while maintaining consistent grip.
Step 5: Check Rubber Compound and Hardness
Rubber compound quality strongly affects pad lifespan. Buyers should review compound specifications instead of evaluating price alone.
Compound Factors to Review
- Shore A hardness rating
- Wear resistance index
- Tear strength
- Temperature tolerance
- Anti-aging performance
High-wear compounds extend service intervals, especially for heavy-duty chain-on rubber track pads used in continuous operations.
Step 6: Consider Replacement and Maintenance Strategy
Selection should also align with the maintenance capabilities of the operator. Consider how frequently pads will be inspected, whether spare units are stocked, and how costly downtime is for your project schedule.
Maintenance Planning Questions
- Do you have on-site service capability?
- What is the acceptable downtime window?
- Are spare pads readily available?
- Is preventive inspection scheduled?
A good selection strategy balances durability with maintainability.
Common Mistakes When Choosing Chain-on Track Pads
- Choosing based on price only
- Ignoring steel chain dimensions
- Not considering working environment
- Selecting pads not rated for machine tonnage
- Skipping compound and hardness review
Avoiding these mistakes significantly improves performance and reduces lifecycle cost.
Quick Buyer Checklist
Use this quick checklist when requesting a quotation or placing an order:
- Machine model
- Operating tonnage
- Steel track measurements
- Main working environment
- Required rubber hardness
- Expected service hours
- Budget range
