When it comes to equipment movement, choosing the right tool for the job can save time, reduce risk, and protect your facility. While machine dollies, rollers, and tank skates are common solutions, they can struggle in tight turns, low-clearance areas, or on delicate flooring. That’s where air skates shine.
Airfloat air skate system for moving heavy equipment.
Air skates—also referred to as air casters or air bearing systems—operate by using compressed air to lift and float heavy loads across a surface. Instead of relying on wheels or rollers, air skates create a nearly frictionless cushion of air beneath the load, enabling smooth and controlled movement in any direction.
Each air caster consists of a durable diaphragm or membrane attached to a platform. When compressed air is introduced into the system, it inflates the diaphragm and forces air beneath it. This pressurized air forms a thin, stable layer—known as an air bearing—between the bottom of the caster and the floor. This air bearing lifts the load just a few millimeters off the ground, eliminating direct contact with the floor and significantly reducing resistance.
Air Skates moving a heavy load on a jobsite.
Because of this “floating” effect, operators can maneuver extremely heavy equipment—sometimes over 100,000 pounds—with as little as 1% of the load weight in force. That means a 50,000 lb machine could potentially be moved with just 500 lbs of applied effort.
Air caster systems are typically controlled via a manifold or valve system that distributes airflow evenly to each caster. Proper balance and consistent air pressure are crucial to maintaining load stability. This is why floor preparation is so important: even small gaps, cracks, or debris can disrupt the air seal and compromise performance.
Compared to traditional skates and wheels, air skates dramatically reduce the force needed to move heavy equipment. Let’s break it down:
• Friction-based movement: Requires 10–65% of the load weight in force
• Wheeled movement: Needs around 5% of the load weight
• Air skate movement: Less than 1% of the load weight is required
To move a 10,000 lb load:
• With friction = up to 6,500 lbs of force
• With wheels = 500 lbs
• With air skates = just 100 lbs of force
That’s a game-changing difference for any operation, especially when repositioning large or sensitive equipment.
Air skates from LGH moving heavy equipment.
Air skates are ideal when:
• You need precision in positioning heavy equipment
• The jobsite has low ground clearance
• You’re working in tight or narrow pathways
• The facility requires no marks or damage to flooring
• Rotational control is needed (360° maneuverability)
Common applications include moving large machinery, manufacturing equipment, and transformers—particularly indoors where floors are smooth, level, and strong enough to support distributed weight.
An Airfloat Air Skate rental from LGH.
To operate air skates safely and effectively, you’ll need:
• A properly rated air compressor
• Smooth, flat flooring free from gaps or debris
• Hose connections and a controller for proper air flow
• An experienced operator familiar with air caster systems
A good rule of thumb: the floor should be as smooth and level as a hockey rink before Game 7 of the Stanley Cup Finals. Any surface imperfections can break the air seal and compromise control.
Want to see these skates in a real-world scenario? Watch our video below to see a 50,000 lb load being moved with ease using a full air skate system:
If your next move calls for maximum control with minimum effort, rent air skates from LGH. Our team will help you select the right setup and ensure you’re fully equipped for safe, efficient equipment movement.
Contact LGH here or call 800-878-7305 to get started.
LGH is North America’s largest single organization devoted exclusively to the provision of lifting and moving equipment for rent. LGH holds the most comprehensive inventory for hoisting, rigging, jacking, pulling, material handling, and safety equipment. With over 90,000 pieces, discover your next project solution at RentLGH.com.
