Maximizing Load Binder Efficiency: Proper Use and Regular Maintenance Inspections

In industries like construction, manufacturing, and logistics, securing heavy loads is crucial to preventing accidents and delays. Load binders, in particular, play a critical role in ensuring chains securely hold loads during transport. However, with frequent use, these tools can wear out, increasing the risk of failure. Therefore, proper use, regular inspections, and proper maintenance can help maximize load binders efficiency and avoid unnecessary equipment damage and operational delays. In this article, we’ll explore the dangers of improper use, the causes of failure, key steps to improve load binders efficiency, and tips for maintaining load binders.

The Dangers of Improper Use Load Binder

Load binders play a vital role in securing heavy loads, ensuring they remain stable during lifting and transport. However, improper use can lead to serious accidents, equipment failure, and costly project delays. Common load binder misuse include: failing to inspect them for damage, using tiedowns that are not appropriate for the load weight, applying inappropriate tension (too loose or too tight), using telescoping poles or telescoping extensions, adjusting tensioned tiedowns while moving a load, and failing to secure loose ends in chains. These errors can lead to load shifting, equipment failure, and even serious injuries and accidents.

In 2018, a University of Washington employee suffered a head injury while using an auxiliary bar to release a lever-type load binder (also known as a spring load binder). In a similar incident in 2013, an unnamed employee was struck in the throat by the load binder. He ultimately required a three-week hospital stay, a tracheotomy, and vocal cord surgery to recover.

As these examples illustrate, securing and untying loads with G70 chains carries numerous risks. Fortunately, there are also ways to mitigate these risks. Below, I’ll discuss the causes of failure, how to improve load binders efficiency, and how to maintain load binders, helping you load and unload more safely.

Understanding the Causes of Load Binders Failure

Understanding the causes of load binders and chains failure is crucial to preventing accidents and problems. The following are the most common causes of load binders failure:

• Overloading: Exceeding the working load limit (WLL) of load binders can cause permanent damage and ultimately failure. Always understand the working load limit of the clamp before use.

• Corrosion: Exposure to harsh environmental conditions, such as rain, salt water, or chemicals, can cause rust, which can weaken adhesives and their components.

• Improper use: Overtightening a chain load clamp or using the wrong size chain can cause faster wear and increase the likelihood of failure.

• Lack of regular maintenance: Without regular inspection and maintenance of the load clamp, minor issues like rust or wear can go unnoticed, potentially leading to serious problems later.

Key Steps to Improving Load Tiedown Efficiency

Proper use of ratchet load clamps, load clamps, and chains can help you avoid unnecessary damage and ensure smooth operation. Here are some practical tips for maximizing the effectiveness of your slings:

1. Choose the right load binders. Consider factors such as the type and WLL of the load, the required working load limit (WLL), and the type of chain you will be using. Ensure the load tie does not exceed the WLL of the chain to avoid overloading and damaging the sling. The working load limit of ratchet load binder is 2200-13000lbs, 5/16-3/8 ratchet load binder has 4 grade wll, 5400lbs, 6600lbs, 7400lbs, 8800lbs.

2. Use the correct chain size. Ensure that the rigging and chain sizes match. Using the incorrect size may result in uneven tension, increasing the risk of equipment failure, such as 3/8 chain should be used with 3/8 load binder.

3. Apply tension evenly. When securing a load, ensure that the chain tension is evenly distributed to avoid overtightening in some areas and loosening in others. When using ratchet rigging, alternate the ratchet handles to evenly apply tension to the load. This will help distribute the force evenly across the load, reducing the risk of overloading on one side.

4. Calculate the number of rigging devices appropriately. When loading heavy loads, using multiple rigging devices can more evenly distribute the weight, reducing the stress on individual rigging devices and improving transport safety.

5. Regular Inspection and Maintenance. Regular inspection and maintenance of rigging devices is crucial. Check for any signs of wear, bent or cracked handles, nicks, or gouges. Properly lubricate moving parts to ensure smooth operation.

6. Proper StorageWhen not in use, store rigging devices in a clean, dry environment. Avoid exposure to harsh weather conditions to prevent accelerated wear and corrosion.

At Sail Rigging, we understand that efficient rigging helps you transport safely and profitably. That’s why we not only offer high-quality ratchet rigging, lever rigging, and indirect rigging, but we also provide customized rigging to meet your needs. We offer load tie-downs in a variety of sizes and configurations to meet your needs. We not only provide high-quality rigging products, but we’re also always available to provide expert guidance to help you choose the right rigging for you. Contact Sail Rigging if you have any question.