What Is a Load Binder? Understanding Its Purpose and Uses

Load binders, also known as chain binders, are instruments used to tighten a chain while fastening a cargo for transportation. There are two types of chain binders: lever binders and ratchet binders. Compare the two; it all comes down to how you tighten.

Lever Binders

A lever load binder consists of a basic machine with a lever and a tension hook on either end. The lever increases the force of tie-down actions. The lever is hinged and takes up slack by pushing on one end of the tension hook, then locks after a 180-degree revolution around the hinge. 

Ratchet Binders

A ratchet binder consists of two types of basic machines, two tension hooks on either end and a handle. The handle again functions as a lever, and there is a screw thread. Both small devices might enhance the force used manually to assemble tie-downs.

When employing a ratchet binder, the lever and screw work together to maximize the force provided to the tie-down assembly. As a result, applying tension requires far less pulling power on the handle than using a lever load binder.

Ratchets also allow for slower, more consistent loading and unloading of forces. It may alleviate any excess tension or pressure on your body. Ratchet binders, which are made consisting of a gear, handle, pawl, and end fittings, do not retain as much energy in the handle as lever binders.

Ratchet binders also provide the benefit of safer take-up. Ratchet binders generally have a take-up distance of eight to ten inches, which is double that of lever binders. Although using a ratchet binder takes a few additional minutes, it is more regulated and, as a result, safer.

The Purpose of a Load Binder

Binders are very important in the processing of metal injection molded components. A binder is often made up of a core component and a variety of additives such as dispersants, stabilizers, and plasticizers. The basic purpose of a binder is to help in the shaping of the component during injection molding and to provide strength to the formed component. 

Binders operate as a medium for shaping and keeping metal particles together until sintering occurs. The binders are combined with metal powders to create feedstocks, which are then utilized as the starting ingredients for injection molding. Binders are removed after molding but before the component is sintered.

Common Uses of a Load Binder

Load binders are used to secure big goods during transportation via road, rail, air, or ship. Here are applications of binders:

Trucking: They are used to load trucks and trailers. 

Shipping & Logistics: Used to secure cargo containers during shipping:

Construction: Used to secure raw materials on construction sites. 

Conclusion

Lever binders and ratchet load binders perform similarly and should be chosen based on the operator’s choice. As with any sort of load securement equipment, safe measures must be followed, including:

Never put cheater bars on the handle to enhance tie-down tension. Cheater bars can provide excessive force to the tie down. This force may be sufficient to damage or even shatter the tie down. This energy can be enhanced further by changing loads. The accumulated energy from this force may hurt you or someone nearby.

Ensure that the lever binder is completely secured and that the load does not move when it is applied. Avoid releasing lever binders near the handle to prevent backlash. Do not hurry the ratcheting process while using ratchet binders.