Sand plates, also known as ground plates or air plates, are indispensable off-road tools. The robust plates are used to free vehicles from difficult terrain such as sand, mud or snow by placing them under the wheels to provide traction. They are particularly important when conventional methods such as lowering the tire pressure or using differential locks are no longer sufficient.

The origins of sand plates date back to the 1940s, when they were developed as "air landing plates" for military purposes. Their main purpose was to enable aircraft to land on sandy and boggy ground. A key requirement was that the sheets could be laid quickly, interlocked and stacked well to facilitate transportation.

Over the years, the sand plates have been continuously developed and significantly improved. Modern manufacturing processes have meant that rotec sand plates are now considerably lighter and more resilient than their predecessors. While the first sand trays were manufactured as solid sheets, today's rotec sand trays have three parallel rows of holes with a hole diameter of 62.5 mm. This innovation has contributed to a significant reduction in weight. 

Another feature of rotec floor panels is that the outer edge of the holes is drawn downwards. By deep-drawing these holes and inserting 21 mm deep beads, not only is greater stability achieved, but also better ground adhesion. The downwardly curved hooked edges on both long sides allow the sand sheets to be joined together to form a stable surface. 

Aluminum sand sheets:
Aluminum sand trays are known for their robustness and durability. They offer excellent grip and are lighter than steel sheets, which makes them easier to handle. Despite their higher price, their corrosion resistance and ease of maintenance make them a worthwhile investment. Aluminum sand plates are torsion-resistant and offer high stability, making them a reliable choice for demanding off-road adventures. 

Steel sand plates: 
Compared to the materials used in the past, steel quality has also developed considerably. In the past, sand plates were made from mild steel StW22. Today, rotec relies on steel grade S355MC, which is characterized by high strength and good cold formability. This hot-rolled steel enables the production of thin-walled, weight-saving steel components that still have a high load-bearing capacity.

The rotec steel decking sheets are not only extremely resilient, but also versatile. They are suitable for both permanent and temporary use and are used on construction sites, parking lots, in nurseries, on sports airfields and at open-air events. The steel sand sheets are available immediately in the dimensions 3.0 x 420 x 1520 mm and 3.0 x 420 x 3040 mm. For extreme loads, rotec also offers custom-made products in 4 mm thickness.

Sand plates belong in every four-wheel drive vehicle. They are particularly useful when other measures no longer help. They are a crucial aid when it comes to freeing vehicles from soft, unstable ground. It is important to support the correct axle and drive carefully to avoid damaging the sand plates. Sand plates can also be used as wheel chocks for jacking up vehicles.

Sand plates made of aluminum and steel offer specific advantages depending on the area of application and requirements. Aluminum sand plates are ideal for those looking for a lighter and more maintenance-friendly solution, while steel sand plates are valued for their unsurpassed robustness and resilience. Both materials ensure that your off-road vehicle has the traction and support it needs in any situation.

Rely on the quality and reliability of rotec sand plates. Our products are designed to support you even under the most demanding off-road conditions. Whether you are an experienced off-roader or a professional on the construction site - with our aluminum and steel sand plates you are perfectly equipped. Put your trust in rotec, your ideal partner for high-quality sand plates.

Further information on rotec sand sheets can be found on our website: 
www.rotec-berlin.de and in our Online store

We wish you a pleasant week
Karl Marx