MaxiTrack Strength Test in Glasgow with a Terex Dumper Truck
To demonstrate the strength of the GroundGuards MaxiTrack system, we tested it under extreme conditions. The aim was to validate MaxiTrack’s ability to withstand loads of up to 130 tonnes through a real-world trial.
For the test, Terex brought one of their large dumper trucks to a trial site in Glasgow. Designed for mining and quarrying environments, the vehicle weighs over 100 tonnes when loaded and provided a rigorous test of MaxiTrack’s structural integrity and traction.
The Challenge: Proving Performance Under Extreme Heavy Loads on Soft, Sloping Ground
The test site featured sloping, uneven ground with soft grass underfoot, conditions that can cause heavy vehicles to lose traction and quickly damage the surface. The mats needed to provide a stable temporary roadway with sufficient grip for climbing, descending, turning, and reversing, without shifting or allowing mud to work up between panels.
Just as importantly, the test needed to show that the ground beneath could remain protected without extensive groundwork preparation.
Our Solution: A High-Traction Temporary Roadway Built with MaxiTrack Mats
GroundGuards constructed a temporary roadway using MaxiTrack heavy-duty trackway mats. Each mat measured 1.8m x 0.9m and featured the SmartGrip tread pattern to improve traction in challenging conditions.
Staggered Mat Layout to Manage Wheel Loads and Reduce Mud Ingress
The mats were connected securely in a staggered formation to help manage heavy wheel loads and minimise mud ingress between panels. No groundwork preparation or reinforcement was required.
Repeated Vehicle Passes to Simulate Real Site Movements
Once the roadway was in place, the Terex dumper truck was driven across the mats multiple times. The test included tight turns and reversing manoeuvres to replicate real-world site use rather than straight-line loading alone.
Results: No Breakages, No Movement, and Ground Left Intact
Despite the vehicle’s weight and off-road demands, the MaxiTrack mats showed no signs of cracking or shifting. The high-traction surface allowed the dumper to climb and descend the slope with confidence, and the ground beneath was left intact.
The trial reinforced MaxiTrack’s suitability as a heavy-duty, reusable matting solution for demanding environments. It also demonstrated that, with the right ground protection in place, very heavy vehicles can operate safely on soft ground without causing surface damage.
Key Lessons for Heavy Vehicle Access on Soft and Uneven Terrain
- Validate heavy-duty matting under realistic movements such as turning and reversing, not just straight-line passes.
- High-traction tread patterns are critical on slopes where heavy vehicles require controlled climbing and braking.
- Staggered mat layouts help manage concentrated wheel loads and improve overall roadway stability.
- Minimising mud ingress between mats supports cleaner operation and better surface protection.
- Heavy vehicle access on soft ground is achievable when load spread and traction are designed into the route.
Speak to GroundGuards About Heavy-Duty Access Mats for Large Vehicles
If you need reliable access for large vehicles on challenging ground, GroundGuards can help. We supply heavy-duty ground protection mats that are fast to install, stable under extreme loads, and protective of the surface below. Contact our team to discuss your site requirements.
