Material technology has changed the world irreversibly in the last few
decades. Our clothes are now stronger, cheaper and more durable than ever before
and our gadgets smaller, more lightweight and more powerful than many born last
century would believe possible. The haulage industry is one of many institutions
who have benefited hugely from these advances in technology thanks to the
increased quality of load securing equipment it's now possible to transport much
greater loads safely and securely. Whereas in the old days securing cargo was a
complex and cumbersome business but with the involvement of new technology it's
now possible to achieve much quicker loading and unloading times.Ratchet straps
have played a particularly significant role in the improvements in the haulage
industry whereas previously they were made from basic materials , they're now
made from a weave of super strong fibres that can withstand huge levels of
pressure and strain. Coupled with a new breed of ratchet buckles, it's now never
been easier to secure large cargos speedily.
As a haulage business owner, if the
straps you're using are over a few years old, it's definitely worth considering
replacing them. Not only are new straps safer (and surprisingly cheap) you'll
also find that they can secure heavier loads and have a much greater lifespan.
When purchasing new ratchet straps, there are a few things you'll need to
consider. The first is the compatibility of your straps with your fasteners
ratchet straps come in three main widths, 25mm, 35mm and 50mm, so make sure that
you select straps that are compatible with your existing ratchets and hooks.
Aside from compatibility issues, the type of your cargo that you're transporting
should also have a bearing on the Ring
Bearings Manufacturers width of strap you choose. If you're transporting
cargo in wooden or metal crates then your choice of strap is less vital (just
make sure it can support the load) but if you're transporting more fragile goods
such as cardboard boxes, the wider the strap you use the better. A wide strap
will distribute pressure more equally, meaning it's less likely to bite into
packaging and potentially damage the goods within. Once you've selected the
width of strap you want, the next thing to consider is its load bearing
capacity.
Generally, the wider the strap, the greater the load it can support,
but nowadays even slender 25mm straps can support strains of 2000kgf. It's also
vitally important that you make sure strength of the both your end fittings and
the ratchet matches the load capacity of the straps themselves. It's no good
having a strap with a load capacity of 4000kgs securing a load of 1000kgs if the
hooks securing the strap can only take strains of 500kgs. There are a number of
companies online who can provide you with new load securing equipment, but one
of the best is a firm called GT Factors. Based in the UK, GTF offer a wide range
of load securing products, and their online brochure features detailed designs
and measurements of all their products to reduce the chances of compatibility
problems. Best of all, GTF can design and produce fittings to your exact
specifications in their Eastbourne-based factory.
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