When you’re hauling, you need to be prepared for anything. Equipment and components of all shapes and sizes need to be shipped from coast to coast, safely and securely. With every unique shape imaginable needing to be hauled, there is a massive need for rigging equipment that is up to the task — load binders, in particular. There are load binders on barges and trucks all over the country at this very moment, allowing for the safe transportation of implements. While all load binders achieve the same goal, rigging them can be vastly different. Here we will discuss the main differences between the types of load binders available.
Lever Binders
Lever binders can come in a few different variations that all operate essentially the same. With a hook at each end, the rigger applies force to the lever in order to take up slack before locking after moving 180 degrees around the hinge to secure the load. Along with the standard lever setup, there is a snubbing lever binder that uses a spring to absorb shock against the load as well as walking lever binder that are great to use as a come-along for short take ups on chains. These simple binders are very simple to set up, but require a great deal of force in order to lock. Not only does this require a great deal of strength on the part of the rigger, but it also puts them at risk. Before the binder is locked, there is a great deal of energy built up throughout the mechanism. Should it slip or the rigger become distracted, the lever can kick back. This will injure the rigger and put the load in jeopardy.
Ratchet Binders
Ratchet binders are a more complicated mechanism, but are able to avoid some of the drawbacks of lever binders. The basic concept remains the same, except with ratchet binders, riggers are able to incrementally take up slack. This is both less strenuous and safer while securing the load. Ratchet binders have two main variations: the standard ratchet and the coffing ratchet. The standard version takes up slack with each crank of the handle, while the coffing version uses a double chain system to allow for more finite control of the take up, ensuring the chain is not over tensioned.
Secure Your Load Safely
No matter what style of load binder you need, Paducah Rigging has you covered. We offer a great selection of lever and ratchet binders that will allow you to safely and securely transport your load.
You can shop online or if you have any questions, reach out to us today!