08-20-2025, 09:20 PM
Importance of Chains
Chains play a critical role in safely securing dump trailers during towing. They act as secondary safety devices to ensure trailer attachment if the primary hitch fails, as well as helping to stabilize the load during transport.
Chain Grades and Strength
Chains come in various grades, each with distinct strength ratings and intended applications:
Selecting the right chain for dump trailer safety involves understanding load requirements and chain grades. Grade 70 chains are common and effective for most towing needs, while heavier-duty applications demand alloy chains like Grade 80 or higher. Proper installation with crossed chains, correct slack, and secure connections is essential to preserving load security and road safety. Regular inspection and maintenance of chains prevent accidents caused by worn or damaged components. Prioritizing safety chain standards ensures confidence and compliance in hauling operations.
Chains play a critical role in safely securing dump trailers during towing. They act as secondary safety devices to ensure trailer attachment if the primary hitch fails, as well as helping to stabilize the load during transport.
Chain Grades and Strength
Chains come in various grades, each with distinct strength ratings and intended applications:
- Grade 30: General-purpose carbon steel chains with a working load limit (WLL) ranging from about 1,300 to 6,900 pounds. These chains are ideal for light-duty applications like agriculture and household use, but often not strong enough for heavy towing.
- Grade 43: Heat-treated carbon steel chains offering greater durability and strength than Grade 30, with WLL from 2,600 to 13,000 pounds. Commonly used in general towing and utility chain applications; however, not recommended for overhead lifting.
- Grade 70: Also known as transport or trucker chain, Grade 70 features a yellow chromate finish for corrosion resistance and DOT recognition. Their WLL ranges roughly between 3,150 to 15,800 pounds. This grade is popular for flatbed hauling, load securement, and demanding towing jobs.
- Grade 80: Alloy steel chains suitable for overhead lifting and heavy-duty towing with WLL from about 3,500 to 18,100 pounds. These chains are stronger still and have a sleek black finish.
- Grade 100: Stronger than Grade 80, Grade 100 alloy chains are rated for WLLs up to 22,600 pounds, used in high-demand applications including rigging and heavy lifting.
- Grade 120: The newest and strongest chains on the market, with WLLs up to 27,500 pounds. Recognizable by a bright blue coating and rectangular links, these chains meet the toughest security requirements.
- Working Load Limit (WLL) is the maximum weight a chain can safely handle under normal use.
- Breaking Strength is the load at which a chain fails.
- Safety regulations require that each safety chain used on a trailer must have a breaking strength at least equal to the full trailer weight (Gross Vehicle Weight Rating - GVWR). When two chains are used, they share the load, providing a fail-safe mechanism.
- Chains should be attached securely to the trailer frame or hitch assembly at points designed to withstand load.
- The chains must be crossed under the trailer tongue to form a cradle, helping to catch the tongue if the trailer detaches.
- There should be minimal slack—just enough to allow proper turning—to reduce chain drag and abrasion.
- Chains and hooks should be rated for the trailer’s GVWR, and their condition inspected regularly.
- Avoid using chains with unmarked or unknown grade links and low-strength hooks (e.g., soft metal S-hooks).
- For a trailer rated at 7,000 lbs GVWR, use at least two Grade 70 chains with a combined working load limits exceeding the GVWR.
- Use hooks and attachments (e.g., clevis hooks, grab hooks) of matching grade and strength.
- Choose chain lengths allowing proper slack for curve negotiation without excess.
- Store chains properly to avoid corrosion or damage; inspect before each use.
- Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR): Maximum operating weight of a trailer including cargo.
- Safety Chain: Secondary chain used to prevent trailer separation from towing vehicle.
- Clevis Hook: U-shaped hook with a clevis pin for secure attachment.
- Working Load Limit (WLL): Maximum load a chain or component can safely carry.
- Breaking Strength: Load at which a chain permanently fails.
- DOT: Department of Transportation regulations covering trailer safety.
Selecting the right chain for dump trailer safety involves understanding load requirements and chain grades. Grade 70 chains are common and effective for most towing needs, while heavier-duty applications demand alloy chains like Grade 80 or higher. Proper installation with crossed chains, correct slack, and secure connections is essential to preserving load security and road safety. Regular inspection and maintenance of chains prevent accidents caused by worn or damaged components. Prioritizing safety chain standards ensures confidence and compliance in hauling operations.
