ALUMINIUM AND STEEL RAMPS

ALUMINIUM AND STEEL RAMPS

Aluminium and Steel Loading Ramps for Vehicles and Equipment

Loading ramps bridge the height between the ground and a trailer, van bed or raised platform. The CIMEX category includes portable aluminium ramp pairs and folding steel ramp pairs for moving compatible wheeled equipment, ATVs, lawn mowers and some vehicles. Choosing the right set requires more than a material preference: compare the machine's total weight, wheel or track layout, ramp width, loading height and the product's stated capacity. A secure attachment and controlled route are essential before anyone drives or rolls equipment up a ramp.

Compare aluminium and steel ramps by the actual model

Aluminium ramps are relatively light to carry and resist corrosion, which makes them practical for teams loading at different sites. CIMEX lists aluminium sets for different loads, including ALR400, foldable ALR340, ALR1800 and ALR3000. Their lengths, widths and capacities differ substantially. A higher-capacity set is not automatically the best fit if its surface is too narrow for the tyres or its length produces an unsuitable loading angle.

Steel ramps can provide a compact, robust option where the listed capacity and dimensions suit the load. The current catalogue includes a triple-folding STAHL pair rated for 450 kg per set. Compare its weight, folded size and surface with the aluminium choices. Material alone does not define capacity: the published rating of the particular ramp pair matters more than a general claim that all steel models carry more than aluminium ones.

Read capacity as a set rating and check load distribution

Most products here are sold as pairs. A rating in a product title can refer to the combined pair, not to each separate ramp. For example, the CIMEX ALR340 listing describes 340 kg maximum per ramp and 680 kg for the two-ramp set. Check whether the load is stated per ramp or per pair on every model. Include the weight of the vehicle or machine, attachments, fuel and cargo in the calculation. Do not use a nominal pair rating if one wheel, axle or track will impose more than the allowed load on a single ramp.

Consider how the load moves during the climb. Weight can shift towards one axle, and a machine with a short wheelbase may concentrate it over a small part of the ramp. The tyres or tracks must remain fully supported by the usable running surfaces. Compare the ramp width and spacing with the machine's wheel track, tyre width and ground clearance. If the equipment has a central support wheel or unusual track layout, a two-ramp set may not be the correct solution.

Choose length for a workable loading angle

Measure the vertical height from the ground to the loading deck and the available run-out space. A longer ramp generally reduces the approach angle for a given deck height, which can help low-clearance machines avoid grounding at the top transition. But the correct length also depends on the equipment manufacturer's maximum grade, traction and braking ability. Check the ramp maker's permitted loading height or angle and the vehicle manual before selecting a set.

A folding ramp may be easier to transport in a van, while a fixed-length ramp can be quicker to place for repeated loading. The live CIMEX listings include pairs around two metres and longer aluminium options; review the exact folded or full dimensions in each product page. Make sure there is enough clear space for a straight approach, a controlled descent and safe access beside the loading area.

Secure the ramps before loading

Place the vehicle or trailer on firm, level ground, apply its parking brake and use wheel chocks where appropriate. Seat each ramp's upper contact fully on the loading edge and secure it using the fastening method specified for that model. A textured or anti-slip surface helps grip, but it cannot compensate for loose attachment, mud, ice or a tyre that does not fit the ramp. Align the pair with the wheel tracks and check that both ends remain stable under a trial load.

Inspect ramp rails, hinges, welds, fasteners and surface before each use. Keep hands and bystanders away from pinch points, the underside of the machine and its travel path. Use a trained operator and a spotter where visibility is limited. Drive or push at a slow, steady speed without sudden steering or braking on the ramp. Never exceed the product's stated capacity or use a damaged ramp. Follow the machine and ramp manuals for any required winch, restraint or loading procedure.

Compare CIMEX aluminium and STAHL steel ramp sets by rated load, usable width, length, folding arrangement and attachment method. Matching those details to the machine and deck height gives a safer, more predictable loading route than choosing by material or headline capacity alone.