Essential to the transportation and flatbed industry, chain binders allow easy tie down and securing of heavy-duty loads. Chain binders are attached to transport chains for secure and easy transport. They are also known as chain load binders or load binders.
Chain binders are commonly made of forged steel and are available in a wide range of brands, size, styles, and working load limits.
Chain binders and transport chains can easily be found in a variety of online and in-store retailers.
Types of Chain Binders
Chain binders comes in two varieties, namely ratchet binders and level load binders. They weigh approximately 3.5 lbs. to up to 20 lbs.
- Ratchet Binders use a ratcheting mechanism and feature a ratcheting handle and two tension hooks on each end of the handle, which secures a load to a transport chain. There is less risk of recoil or snapbacks, because ratchet binders, unlike level binders, store less energy in the handle. For this reason, they are considered the safer option.
Other types of chain binders include Grade 80/100/120 ratchet binders, which can be used with heavy-duty transport chains.
- Level Load Binders are also known as snap binders. While they are considered easier to use than ratchet binders, they do pose a risk of recoil and snapback. They also feature less moving parts and less need for maintenance in comparison to ratchet binders. This type of binder is much more difficult to tighten, leading many individuals to use a cheater bar. This practice is discouraged due to safety risks.
In addition, a recoil-less level binder is considered the best of both worlds. It is as safe as a ratchet binder, with the efficiency of a level binder.
Types of Transport Chains
Transport chains come in a variety of grades, including the standard 70-grade transport chain and grade 80, 100, and 120 heavy-duty transport chains. In addition, transport chains can be used as logging chains as well. For example, a 70-grade transport chain is 20% stronger than a 43-log chain.
Additional Products for Transport
In addition to chain binders and transport chains, transport of loads also requires hooks for the each transport chain. Various types exist depending on specific needs, including the commonly used celvis grab hook, perfect for easy connection and the celvis grab hook with latch. Additional hooks include the clevis slip hook, which is wider than the clevis grab hook and the clevis slip hook with latch.
Benefits of Chain Binders and Transport Chains
Chain binders and transport chains are the best option for hauling heavy items, such as agricultural equipment and industrial machines. They also resist wear and tear, and are known for their durability and strength. Chain binders and transport chains are a great alternative to using a large number of nylon straps to secure loads.
To ensure long-term use, lubricate load binders periodically.
Cost of Chain Binders and Transport Chains
The cost of chain binders and transport chains depends on size, brand, working load limit, and handle type.
For example, a ratchet chain binder to be used with a 3/8 – 1/2 inch transport chain, with a working load limit of 9,200 lbs. averages approximately $40 USD. A ratchet chain binder to be used with a 5/16 – 3/8 inch transport chain, with a working load limit of 5,400 lbs. averages $33 USD.
A level style load binder to be used with a 5/16 – 3/8 inch transport chain, with a working load limit of 5,400 lbs. is approximately $22 USD.
A 5/16 – 3/8 inch recoil-less cam action lever binder to be used with a 70-grade transport chain, with a working load limit of 6,600 lbs. is approximately $50 USD.
A 5/16 – 3/8 inch heavy duty ratchet chain binder to be used with a 70-grade transport chain, with a working load limit of 6,600 lbs. is approximately $32 USD.
How to Choose Chain Binders and Transport Chains
Choosing a chain binder does not have to be a difficult process. Firstly, it is important to know the weight of the cargo and the total number of chains needed to tie it down. The tied down load cannot exceed the safe working load of the chains being used.
Ensure that chain binders and transport chains are matched in capacity and fit.
Often loads of 5 inches or less only require one tie-down, while loads of 5 to 10 inches require two tie-downs. However, for loads that are more than 1,100 lbs., two tie-downs are often required, even if under 5 inches. Be sure to check with state and province regulations for more detailed information.
Various North American in-store and online retailers carry of wide array of chain binders and transport chains. Do not hesitate to contact one today.
