Binder Chain 101

One very efficient tool used for heavy-duty, industrial cargo control is the binder chain. Binder chains should meet the stringent US Department of Transportation requirements, to ensure your load's (and your own) safety and secure haulage.

Compared with polyester straps, binder chains are capable of much heavier loads: good working load limits are at a range of 4,400 lbs (with a breaking strength of 18,800 lbs) to about 11,000 lbs (with a breaking strength of 44,000 lbs).

What things should you remember when using or purchasing binder chains?
First of all, binder chains are used to secure your cargo for transport purposes, and it can also be used for towing vehicles. However, binder chains are generally NOT designed for overhead lifting; know that binder chains uses can be determined according to its grade. For example, Grade 28 or Proof Coil binder chains are commonly used in guard rails, cargo lashing and log chains; Grade 43 or High Test binder chains can be used for load binding and towing; and Grade 70 chains, also for binding and towing, provides the highest strength-to-weight ratio among the three. A Grade 80 alloy and up are the only chain grade that could be used for overhead lifting.

Remember, always use these chains according to manufacturer's instructions to ensure maximum safety and efficiency.

Remember to inspect the binder chain before you use it. It's a common saying that a chain's strength is determined by its weakest link, and so it's an important part of maintenance that you inspect each chain on a regular basis. What should you look out for? Try to examine the chain for cracks or marks, wear (specially at the bearing points), distortion, and twists or bends. To avoid these conditions in the first place, make sure that you avoid twisting the chain or tying it into a knot; that you avoid storing the chain in extreme heat or cold; and that you always adhere to the chain's working load limit. In case there are some slight damages to your chain, however, you may need to lower the weight on the loads you work with, or discard the binder chain altogether.

Hooks are a very important component of the binder chain; some examples of these hooks include eyehooks and clevis hooks. An important thing to remember is that the hook to your binder chain should at least be equal to the binder chain's strength, since it would also work with the same load weight as the rest of the binder chain.
Binder chains are available at different measurements; basically what you should use depends on your purposes. Generally, the heavier the load the thicker the chains should be. Usual width specifications would range from 5/16 inch to ½ of an inch. Length measurements could range from 14 feet to about 25 feet.

If you check out Manufacturer Express at www.mfrexpress.com, you will be able to find a variety of high-quality, Grade 70 binder chains with clevis hook. They offer premium discounts on their binder chains, along with free shipping. Remember, with binder chains, you could never go wrong with quality.