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Lever Binders and Ratchet Binders: What are the Safety Benefits?

When researching the benefits of lever binders and ratchet binders, people often ask "what can I do with a lever binder?" or "how to use a ratchet binder?" It can be scary operating these binders because of the injury risk it may bring.

Read the differences of each chain binder and how to operate them safely.

What is a Chain Binder?

A chain binder is a tool used to tighten chain to secure cargo for transport. When shopping for chain binders, there are commonly two styles: the ratchet binder and the lever binder.

How to Use Chain Binders?

Ratchet Binders

a ratchet binder, also known as a load binder chain
A ratchet binder, or a ratchet chain binder, includes a ratcheting mechanism to create tension in the chain in order to safely secure the load. It has a handle, two tension hooks, and a cam and prawl mechanism to create a smooth, ratcheting action.

 

When you are using a ratchet binder, the lever and screw will work together to increase the force applied to the tie-down assembly. This will provide the least amount of work to bind the chain tightly to secure the load. Also, its handle takes much less pulling force than you would need with a lever binder.

Lever Binders

 

the other type of chain binders, the lever load binder
A lever binder, or lever chain binder, is the easiest to unbind quickly to unload your cargo. The lever binder has a lever and tension hook on each end, and the lever can increase the force when applying to a tie-down.

 

The lever binder will require more pulling force because it stores energy in the handle. With added tension, this can make it harder to tighten because it requires more strength.

The lever binder is viewed as the least safe option because of the lever's built-up tension when you release it. Recently, we added a new type of lever binder called the Recoilless Cam Action Lever Binder.

This is one of the safest lever binders on the market today. This is because its unique design eliminates the whiplash that occurs when you release the chain tension.

If you are seeking a lever binder but want to add safety to it, this is the perfect choice for you. To learn more about this new product we added, check out our blog post on New Products Alert: Recoil-less Cam Action Lever Binder and Ratchet Chain Binder.

So, Which Binder is Best for Your Haul?

chain and binder set

Although the lever binder can unbind quickly to unload your cargo, the ratchet binder is considered the safest option. With less built-up tension, this reduces the risk of the bar snapping back on you.

At the end of the day, the chain binders are only as safe as how you are using them. If you don't use it correctly, it will become a danger to you. If you wish to learn more about our chain binders, give our team a call so we can get you the information that you need to keep you going.

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At US Cargo Control, we care about your safety. When you’re ready to use chain binders, go to US Cargo Control or give our sales team a call at (866) 444-9990 or email customerservice@uscargocontrol.com.

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