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Views: 0 Author: Site Editor Publish Time: 13-05-2025 Origin: Site
Rubber tracks have become a cornerstone in modern machinery—especially in agriculture and construction—offering better traction, enhanced mobility, and reduced ground damage. Whether on a compact excavator, a track loader, or a high-horsepower agricultural tractor, rubber tracks provide the flexibility and durability needed to navigate harsh terrains while maintaining equipment efficiency.
In this in-depth guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know about rubber tracks—from their construction and benefits to applications, maintenance, and how to choose the best one for your machinery. We’ll also highlight key components like track pads, removal tools, and sourcing from top rubber track manufacturers and suppliers, including trusted names like JOC Machinery.
A rubber track is a continuous band of reinforced rubber that wraps around the undercarriage of tracked machinery, such as excavators, bulldozers, and agricultural tractors. Unlike traditional steel tracks, rubber tracks offer a more flexible and lightweight alternative designed to minimize ground damage and improve maneuverability—especially on soft or sensitive terrain.
Rubber tracks typically consist of:
A high-tensile steel cord or steel belt for reinforcement
Durable rubber compounds for flexibility and wear resistance
Embedded drive lugs or tread patterns for traction
Internal steel cores for structural integrity
These tracks are commonly found in agricultural machinery parts, compact construction equipment, and even robotic or small mobile platforms.
Rubber tracks are widely used across multiple industries, with their most common applications including:
| Machinery Type | Application Area | Benefits of Rubber Tracks |
|---|---|---|
| Rubber Track Excavator | Construction, Demolition | Reduced vibration, quieter operation |
| Rubber Track Dozer | Earthmoving, Grading | Better flotation on soft ground |
| Agricultural Tractors | Farming, Harvesting | Minimal soil compaction, improved field access |
| Rubber Track Bulldozer | Land clearing, Forestry | Enhanced traction and stability |
| Compact Track Loaders | Landscaping, Utility work | Low ground pressure, high maneuverability |
When it comes to agricultural machinery parts, rubber tracks play a vital role in maximizing productivity while preserving field integrity. Traditional wheeled tractors can cause soil compaction, leading to poor crop yields. Rubber tracks distribute weight more evenly, allowing farmers to:
Extend planting and harvesting seasons in wet soil conditions
Reduce soil disturbance and compaction
Improve traction on hills and muddy terrain
Increase overall crop efficiency
From track-equipped seeders to harvest combines, the adoption of rubber track solutions in agriculture continues to grow, especially with the rise of precision farming.
Understanding the types of rubber tracks available can help you choose the right one based on your machine type and working conditions.
A rubber track excavator is designed to handle dirt, gravel, and paved surfaces without causing damage. These tracks feature a non-marking rubber compound and optimized tread patterns for grip and stability.
A rubber track dozer or rubber track bulldozer uses enhanced rubber compounds and reinforced cores to handle heavy-duty pushing, leveling, and grading with reduced ground disturbance.
These tracks are built for farming equipment like tractors, tillers, and harvesters. They typically have wider profiles and deeper lugs to provide better flotation and traction in fields.
To get the most out of your rubber track system, it's important to understand the key components that contribute to its performance.
Rubber track pads are bolt-on or clip-on additions to steel tracks or integrated into rubber tracks to reduce surface damage and noise. They're essential in urban construction or agricultural environments where ground preservation is critical.
Bolt on rubber track pads are mechanically fastened to steel shoes for easy replacement.
Excavator rubber track pads are designed to handle excavation forces while minimizing vibration on hard surfaces.
Embedded steel cores provide structural rigidity and strength, while the internal lugs engage with sprockets for smooth propulsion.
This is a common rubber track size used in compact machinery like mini-excavators. The numbers refer to:
180 mm width
72 mm pitch
37 links
Knowing your required specifications like this ensures compatibility and performance.
Selecting the best rubber track depends on a few critical factors:
Are you using a mini excavator, skid steer, or agricultural tractor? Match the track design to your machine’s weight and intended terrain.
Refer to your equipment manual or old track markings to determine the correct width, pitch, and number of links (e.g., 180×72×37 rubber track).
Use abrasion-resistant rubber compounds for rocky environments or non-marking rubber for sensitive surfaces like turf or concrete.
Different tread designs optimize grip, flotation, or ride comfort. Agricultural treads usually have deeper lugs for traction in loose soil.
Partner with reliable rubber track manufacturers and rubber track suppliers who offer quality assurance, warranty, and after-sales support.
Proper care and installation extend the lifespan of your rubber tracks and protect your undercarriage system.
Follow the manufacturer’s tensioning guidelines
Use appropriate tools like a rubber track removal tool to avoid damage
Check sprockets, rollers, and idlers for wear before installing a new track
Clean debris after use to prevent wear
Inspect for cuts, cracks, or exposed cords
Maintain proper tension to avoid slipping or derailing
Store in a dry, shaded place to avoid UV and ozone degradation
| Feature | Rubber Track | Steel Track |
|---|---|---|
| Weight | Lighter | Heavier |
| Surface Impact | Minimal (less ground damage) | High (may damage pavement or soil) |
| Noise | Quieter operation | Noisier |
| Durability | Good for medium-duty use | Longer lifespan for heavy-duty work |
| Cost | Typically lower initial cost | Higher cost but longer service life |
Rubber tracks are ideal for soft terrain and urban or agricultural environments, while steel tracks are better suited for extreme, rugged conditions.
When sourcing rubber tracks, quality and reliability matter. Here’s what to look for in a supplier:
Experience in agricultural machinery parts and construction sectors
Wide track size inventory (e.g., 180×72×37 rubber track)
OEM/ODM capabilities
ISO-certified manufacturing processes
Global shipping and support
With over 20 years of experience, JOC Machinery Co., Ltd. is a trusted name in supplying agricultural machinery parts, including custom rubber track solutions. JOC offers:
CNC-machined undercarriage components
Custom rubber track pads
Agricultural rubber tracks for tractors and harvesters
ISO9001 and TS16949-certified production
Export to over 40 countries and regions
With increasing emphasis on sustainable farming and low-impact construction, rubber tracks offer multiple advantages:
Lower ground pressure = less soil erosion
Improved traction = better fuel efficiency
Lower vibration = longer machine lifespan
Noise reduction = safer urban operation
Easy replacement with tools like rubber track removal tool
As technology advances, new rubber track solutions are emerging with enhanced materials, self-cleaning treads, and smart wear indicators.
Q1: What is a rubber track used for?
A1: Rubber tracks are used in construction and agricultural equipment to provide better traction, reduce ground damage, and improve maneuverability on soft or sensitive surfaces.
Q2: How long do rubber tracks typically last?
A2: The lifespan varies depending on use, but a standard rubber track can last between 1,200 to 1,600 hours with proper maintenance.
Q3: Can I use rubber tracks on a dozer?
A3: Yes, rubber track dozers are ideal for light to medium-duty grading and land clearing tasks, especially in areas where ground protection is needed.
Q4: What is the size 180×72×37 in rubber tracks?
A4: It refers to a rubber track with a 180 mm width, 72 mm pitch, and 37 links—commonly used in mini-excavators and compact tractors.
Q5: What are bolt-on rubber track pads?
A5: These are detachable pads that bolt onto steel tracks to provide rubber cushioning, reducing surface damage and noise.
Q6: How do I remove a rubber track?
A6: Use a rubber track removal tool to safely release tension and guide the track off the sprockets without damaging the undercarriage.
Q7: Where can I find reliable rubber track suppliers?
A7: Companies like JOC Machinery offer OEM-quality agricultural and construction rubber tracks, with global shipping and full after-sales support.
Rubber tracks have revolutionized the way we approach terrain mobility in agriculture and construction. By offering a balance of durability, flexibility, and ground protection, they’ve become an essential component of modern agricultural machinery parts.
From navigating muddy fields to handling urban construction zones, rubber tracks—available in sizes like 180×72×37 and with options like bolt on rubber track pads—provide reliable performance across conditions.
If you’re looking for rubber track solutions built on quality, performance, and global expertise, JOC Machinery is your trusted partner.Explore your options today and upgrade your machinery with the best in agricultural rubber track technology.
