LHS4-2: The Next Generation Low-Height Skidding System

When you need to relocate a multi-ton machine, transformer, boiler, or press frame inside an operational facility, and ceiling height or confined access rules out a crane, a hydraulic skidding system is the professional’s answer.

For horizontal moving jobs like this, Enerpac Skidding Systems has been the trusted choice for many years. The new LHS4-2 is a targeted refinement that addresses difficulties reported by contractors and maintenance teams: assembly speed, component handling, transport logistics, and ordering flexibility.

The new system delivers the same proven 400-tonne capacity as the LH400, but gets your team up and running more efficiently and safely.

Before taking a closer look, let’s recap why skidding systems are needed.

Why Use a Hydraulic Skidding System?

For project managers and operations teams who may be specifying a skidding system for the first time, it’s worth understanding why this method is the preferred approach for heavy-load movement in industrial environments.

• No crane or gantry required. A skidding system works at floor level, with a very low starting height. This is transformative for factories, basements, substations, and any confined environment where overhead lifting equipment simply cannot operate. The low profile of these systems is ideal for these access-restricted situations.

• Controlled, precise movement. Hydraulic push-pull cylinders connected to a Split-Flow Pump deliver even, controlled force across both sides of the load simultaneously. Smart valve technology ensures loads move smoothly and positioning is precise, which is critical when working around expensive or sensitive equipment.

• Push and pull – both directions. The system can push or pull a load along the track without relocating the cylinder, and if you need to reverse the direction of travel, this is simple to switch.
• Minimal friction, maximum capacity. The key elements of a skidding system are the PTFE-coated Teflon® skid pads mounted on the tracks. These dramatically reduce friction between the load and the track surface.

• Portable and reconfigurable. Unlike fixed crane infrastructure, the entire system packs down and transports to the next job. Skid tracks can be extended or shortened to match the distance required, and the modular design means one system adapts to many different projects.

• Low total cost of ownership. Replaceable PTFE skid pads are the primary wear item and can be swapped in the field. The robust construction of beams and tracks ensures reliable service across many years and projects.

Typical Skidding System Applications

Hydraulic skidding systems are used across a wide range of industries wherever heavy loads need to be moved horizontally with precision and without overhead lifting:

• Industrial machinery installation and removal
• Power transformer relocation in substations and power stations
• Press frame removal and repositioning in manufacturing facilities
• Boiler and pressure vessel movement
• General heavy equipment skidding in low-headroom environments
• Precision positioning of large loads during construction or maintenance

What’s New in the LHS4-2 Skidding System?

The LHS4-2 introduces significant improvements over the previous LH400 system. Each enhancement addresses practical on-site feedback from contractors and operations teams.

1. Faster Assembly: Fast-Coupling Track System

Traditionally, skid track sections had to be bolted together during setup. On longer runs requiring many sections, this added extra time to every mobilisation – time that is at a premium during a planned maintenance window or production outage.

The LHS4-2 replaces the bolted connection with a new fast-coupling system. Track sections connect quickly without the need for bolts, significantly cutting assembly time and allowing your team to get the load moving sooner. The new track sections are longer, measuring 4.7 ft (1.43 m), which means also helps towards faster assembly because fewer connections are required.

2. Simplified Ordering: Starter Kit and Track Kit Options

Specifying the outgoing LH400 required identifying and ordering individual components separately, increasing procurement complexity and the risk of arriving on site with a missing part.

The LHS4-2 addresses this directly. A complete Starter Kit (model LHS4ST-2) is available as a single order, containing everything needed to begin skidding operations: two 200-tonne push-pull units, four skid beams, ten skid tracks, handle hooks, and a transport frame. The only items to order separately are the SFP-Series Split-Flow Pump and hydraulic hoses.

For projects requiring different track lengths, Skid Track Kits are available in four configurations: 4, 8, 10, or 14 tracks, allowing you to match exactly the run length your project demands. The LHS4TK14-2 Skidtrack Kit includes 14 track sections allowing skidding operations up to 10 metres (2 lines of 5 metres).

3. Improved Handling: Integrated Lifting Points

The LH400 used conventional carrying handles on the skid beams. The LHS4-2 replaces these with integrated lifting points and holes on both the push-pull units and skid beams. These are designed for use with the provided handling tools, improving operator ergonomics and reduced fatigue during setup.

4. Better Logistics: Stackable Transport Frame

The new stackable transport frame (LHS4TF-2) is purpose-designed so that frames can be stacked on top of one another during transport and storage. For contractors running multiple systems, this reduces the vehicle space required and improves yard and warehouse organisation. The frame also features integrated lifting points for easier loading and unloading.

5. Backwards Compatible: Protecting Your Existing Investment

If your team already operates the LH400 system, you do not need to replace your entire fleet to benefit from the new components. The LHS4-2 is backwards compatible thanks to the LH400 Conversion Kit LHCK.

LH400 Conversion Kit LHCK

This kit includes adaptor blocks, adaptor skid tracks, push blocks, and handling tools, allowing new LHS4-2 components to be used alongside existing LH400 equipment. You can integrate at the pace that suits your business.

Skid Track Kits

• LHS4TK4-2 – 4 skid tracks
• LHS4TK8-2 – 8 skid tracks
• LHS4TK10-2 – 10 skid tracks
• LHS4TK14-2 – 14 skid tracks
Each skid track has a 73-tonne capacity, is 4.7 ft (1.43 m) long, and includes 13 replaceable PTFE skid pads. All kits include one stackable transport frame.

LHS4-2 Key Specifications

• Total skidding capacity (2 units): 400 tonnes*
• Push-pull stroke: 23.62 inches
• Maximum operating pressure: 10,000 psi
• Maximum cylinder advance force: 25 tonnes
• Maximum cylinder retract force: 11 tonnes
*Total capacity is achieved when friction is less than 5%.

For full technical specifications or to get in touch with a specialist, visit enerpac.com or contact your local Enerpac distributor.