If you are looking for a reliable and efficient way to secure your heavy loads, you may want to consider using a ratchet chain binder. A ratchet chain binder is a type of binding device that uses a ratcheting mechanism to tighten and lock a chain around your cargo. Ratchet chain binders are commonly used in conjunction with chains or straps, and they are ideal for applications where a high degree of tension is required.
In this article, we will explain what a ratchet chain binder is, how it works, what are its benefits and drawbacks, and how to use it safely and effectively. We will also answer some frequently asked questions about this product. By the end of this article, you will have a better understanding of ratchet chain binders and how they can help you secure your heavy loads.
What is a Ratchet Chain Binder?
A ratchet chain binder is a device that consists of two tension hooks on each end, a handle, and a ratcheting mechanism. The ratcheting mechanism is composed of a barrel, a screw thread, a gear, and a pawl. The barrel is the part that rotates around the screw thread, and the gear and the pawl are the parts that control the direction and the locking of the rotation.
The ratchet chain binder works by attaching the tension hooks to the chain links on both sides of the load. Then, the handle is used to rotate the barrel, which in turn tightens the chain around the load. The gear and the pawl prevent the barrel from rotating back, thus locking the chain in place. The handle can also be used to release the tension and unlock the chain when needed.
What are the Benefits of Using a Ratchet Chain Binder?
There are several benefits of using a ratchet chain binder over other types of binders, such as lever binders or cam binders. Some of these benefits are:
- Safety: A ratchet chain binder is safer to use than a lever binder, because it stores less energy in the handle, reducing the risk of recoil or snapback. A ratchet chain binder also allows for more precise and controlled tensioning, avoiding over-tightening or under-tightening the chain. Additionally, a ratchet chain binder has a built-in locking mechanism, which prevents the chain from loosening or slipping during transport.
- Ease of Use: A ratchet chain binder is easier to use than a cam binder, because it does not require manual locking or unlocking of the cam. A ratchet chain binder also does not require much physical force to operate, as the ratcheting mechanism does most of the work. A ratchet chain binder can also be used with one hand, leaving the other hand free to hold the chain or the load.
- Versatility: A ratchet chain binder is versatile, as it can be used with different sizes and grades of chains, as long as they match the working load limit and the hook size of the binder. A ratchet chain binder can also be used for various types of loads, such as machinery, vehicles, lumber, steel, or concrete.
What are the Drawbacks of Using a Ratchet Chain Binder?
Despite the many benefits of using a ratchet chain binder, there are also some drawbacks that should be considered. Some of these drawbacks are:
- Cost: A ratchet chain binder is more expensive than a lever binder or a cam binder, as it has more moving parts and a more complex mechanism. A ratchet chain binder also requires more maintenance and lubrication, as it is more prone to wear and tear and corrosion.
- Weight: A ratchet chain binder is heavier than a lever binder or a cam binder, as it has more metal components and a larger handle. A ratchet chain binder also adds more weight to the load, which may affect the fuel efficiency and the handling of the vehicle.
- Speed: A ratchet chain binder is slower to operate than a lever binder or a cam binder, as it requires more rotations of the handle to tighten or loosen the chain. A ratchet chain binder also has more steps to follow, such as releasing the pawl, reversing the direction, and locking the pawl again.
How to Use a Ratchet Chain Binder Safely and Effectively?
To use a ratchet chain binder safely and effectively, you should follow these steps:
- Step 1: Inspect the ratchet chain binder, the chain, and the load before use. Make sure that the binder, the chain, and the load are in good condition, free of cracks, bends, rust, or damage. Also, make sure that the binder, the chain, and the load have the same or higher working load limit than the weight of the load.
- Step 2: Attach the tension hooks of the ratchet chain binder to the chain links on both sides of the load. Make sure that the hooks are fully engaged and that the chain is not twisted or kinked. Also, make sure that the chain is not too loose or too tight around the load, as this may affect the tensioning and the security of the load.
- Step 3: Rotate the handle of the ratchet chain binder clockwise to tighten the chain around the load. Make sure that the pawl is engaged and that the barrel is rotating in the right direction. Also, make sure that the handle is positioned against the floor or another solid surface, to prevent it from spinning freely or hitting you.
- Step 4: Apply enough tension to the chain until the load is secure and stable. Do not over-tighten or under-tighten the chain, as this may cause damage to the binder, the chain, or the load. Also, do not exceed the working load limit of the binder, the chain, or the load, as this may cause failure or breakage of the components.
- Step 5: Check the tension and the alignment of the chain and the binder periodically during transport. Make sure that the chain and the binder are not loose, twisted, or damaged. Also, make sure that the load is not shifting or sliding on the vehicle.
- Step 6: To release the tension and unlock the chain, rotate the handle of the ratchet chain binder counterclockwise. Make sure that the pawl is disengaged and that the barrel is rotating in the opposite direction. Also, make sure that the handle is positioned away from your body, to avoid injury from the recoil or snapback of the chain.
- Step 7: Detach the tension hooks of the ratchet chain binder from the chain links on both sides of the load. Make sure that the hooks are fully disengaged and that the chain is not tangled or caught on the load. Also, make sure that the load is supported by another means, such as a jack or a crane, before removing the chain.
- Step 8: Store the ratchet chain binder and the chain in a dry and clean place. Make sure that the binder and the chain are not exposed to moisture, dirt, or chemicals, as this may cause corrosion or deterioration. Also, make sure that the binder and the chain are not subjected to excessive heat, cold, or pressure, as this may cause deformation or damage.
Frequently Asked Questions about Ratchet Chain Binders
Here are some of the most common questions and answers about ratchet chain binders:
What is the difference between a ratchet chain binder and a lever chain binder?
A ratchet chain binder and a lever chain binder are both types of binding devices that use a chain to secure a load. However, they have different mechanisms and characteristics. A ratchet chain binder uses a ratcheting mechanism to tighten and lock the chain, while a lever chain binder uses a lever and a tension hook to tighten and lock the chain. A ratchet chain binder is safer, easier, and more versatile than a lever chain binder, but it is also more expensive, heavier, and slower than a lever chain binder.
How do I choose the right size and grade of chain for my ratchet chain binder?
To choose the right size and grade of chain for your ratchet chain binder, you should consider the following factors:
- The working load limit of the chain, the binder, and the load. The working load limit is the maximum weight that the chain, the binder, and the load can safely support. You should choose a chain, a binder, and a load that have the same or higher working load limit than the weight of the load.
- The diameter of the chain and the hook. The diameter of the chain and the hook determines the strength and the durability of the chain and the binder. You should choose a chain and a hook that have a suitable diameter for the load and the binder. Generally, the larger the diameter, the stronger and the heavier the chain and the hook.
- The grade of the chain. The grade of the chain indicates the quality and the performance of the chain. You should choose a chain that has a suitable grade for the load and the binder. Generally, the higher the grade, the stronger and the more resistant the chain.
What are the best brands of ratchet chain binders?
There are many brands of ratchet chain binders available on the market, but some of the most reputable and popular ones are:
- Ancra: Ancra is a leading manufacturer of cargo control products, including ratchet chain binders, chains, straps, winches, and more. Ancra’s ratchet chain binders are made of high-quality steel and feature a forged handle, a forged barrel, and a forged hook. Ancra’s ratchet chain binders are also designed with safety and convenience in mind, as they have a self-locking mechanism, a tamper-resistant pawl, and a vinyl-coated handle.
- Peerless: Peerless is a global leader in chain and industrial fittings, offering a wide range of products for various industries and applications. Peerless’s ratchet chain binders are made of heat-treated alloy steel and feature a drop-forged handle, a drop-forged barrel, and a drop-forged hook. Peerless’s ratchet chain binders are also designed with durability and performance in mind, as they have a corrosion-resistant finish, a smooth ratcheting action, and a heavy-duty spring.
- US Cargo Control: US Cargo Control is a trusted supplier of cargo control products, including ratchet chain binders, chains, straps, tarps, and more. US Cargo Control’s ratchet chain binders are made of grade 70 steel and feature a cast steel handle, a cast steel barrel, and a forged hook. US Cargo Control’s ratchet chain binders are also designed with ease of use and versatility in mind, as they have a quick-release lever, a 360-degree swivel, and an adjustable length.
How do I maintain and care for my ratchet chain binder?
To maintain and care for your ratchet chain binder, you should follow these tips:
- Clean your ratchet chain binder regularly, using a mild detergent and water. Remove any dirt, grease, or debris that may affect the operation or the appearance of the binder.
- Lubricate your ratchet chain binder periodically, using a light oil or grease. Apply the lubricant to the moving parts of the binder, such as the barrel, the screw thread, the gear, and the pawl. This will prevent rust, friction, and wear and tear of the binder.
- Inspect your ratchet chain binder before and after each use, looking for any signs of damage, wear, or malfunction. Check the hooks, the handle, the barrel, the screw thread, the gear, and the pawl for any cracks, bends, breaks, or loose parts. If you find any defects, do not use the binder and replace it immediately.
- Store your ratchet chain binder in a dry and cool place, away from direct sunlight, heat, moisture, or chemicals. This will prevent corrosion, deformation, or deterioration of the binder.