What Are New York's Industry Standard Specifications for Snowplow Blades?
Snowplow blade specifications vary depending on the materials the blades are made of, as well as the size of the snowplow. While there are industry standards, there is no one size of snowplow blade that must be used at all times, specific to New York or any other state.
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Four-Wheel-Drive Cab Blade Specifications
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The specifications for a snowplow with a four-wheel-drive cab include a heavy-duty, 9-foot-long snowplow blade designed for rough terrain. In addition to the blade size, the plow should be equipped with a minimum of seven ribs and should be able to turn 35 degrees both to the left and right while plowing snow. The turning of the blade and the plowing are made possible by two hydraulic cylinders.
Carbide Tipped Blades
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Unlike all-steel plow blades, carbide-tipped blades last longer and wear down more slowly than a basic steel blade. Consequently, you only have to replace the carbide-tipped blades once a season, according to the industry standards. If the plow is in a high-use environment, however, the carbide-tipped blades might need to be switched out sooner or reinforced with more carbide.
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Urethane Blades
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Urethane snowplow blades come in a variety of standard sizes geared toward the size of the street, sidewalk or driveway that needs to be plowed. In terms of length, urethane snowplows come in 36-, 48-, 60-, 72-, 84-, 96-, 108- and 120-inch blades. As for width, the blades come in 6, 8 and 10 inches. A urethane blade will range from 1 to 2 inches in thickness.
Caution
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While most snowplow blade manufacturers adhere to the industry standards of not only New York but of the rest of the country, you should only buy blades from reliable and fully licensed dealers. Off-market snowplow blades might not meet basic industry standards; using them could mean you don't plow the snow adequately, and it might mean breaking the law. Before operating a snowplow, you must be properly licensed and approved by the state.
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References
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