Protection Chains
Protection chains, also known as safety chains or security chains, are devices used to enhance the safety and security of various equipment, particularly trailers, towing systems, and heavy machinery. Protection chains are typically made of strong, durable materials such as steel or high-strength alloys. Here, we will explore the ABCs of protection chains, specifically protection chains for wheeled heavy machinery and how these chains have got your back.
The ABCs of protection chains: Exploring different types you can find
The primary purpose of a protection chain is to prevent accidents or damage that could occur. They are designed to withstand heavy loads and resist damage caused by tension, abrasion, or impacts. The chains are usually equipped with hooks or couplings.
Mining Equipment Chains:
Mining equipment chains are specialized chains used in the mining industry to enhance the safety and stability of wheeled heavy machinery. These chains are designed to prevent tire detachment or failure in mining vehicles, such as haul trucks, wheel loaders, and bulldozers. They are built with high-strength materials to withstand the extreme forces and conditions encountered in mining operations.
Snow Chains:
Snow chains, also known as tire chains, are used in snowy and icy conditions to improve traction and your vehicle control. They consist of chains that are wrapped around the tires to provide enhanced grip on slippery surfaces. You can use snow chains in areas with heavy snowfall, such as mountainous regions or during winter driving conditions.
Lifting Chains:
Lifting chains, also referred to as chain slings, are used in material handling and lifting operations. They are designed to lift and secure heavy loads, providing a strong and reliable connection between the load and the lifting equipment.
Logging Chains:
Logging chains are heavy-duty chains specifically designed for the logging industry. They are used to secure logs and prevent them from rolling or shifting during transport.
Trailer Safety Chains:
These chains are used for towing applications, particularly for trailers and recreational vehicles. They are designed to prevent trailer detachment in case the primary hitch fails or becomes disconnected from the towing vehicle. Trailer safety chains typically have hooks or couplings on both ends for secure attachment.
By incorporating protection chains, you can significantly reduce the risk of accidents, property damage, and injuries. They are a valuable feature for your safety, provide you peace of mind and add security while towing or operating heavy machinery.
Protection chains for wheeled heavy machinery
These chains are typically used on equipment such as haul trucks, wheel loaders, bulldozers, and other large mining vehicles to provide an additional layer of protection against tire detachment or failure.
Usually, when using off-the-road tires (OTR) in challenging environments like mining, fatigue damage tends to occur in your tires. Protection chains can provide you an extra layer of security, particularly in rugged mining terrains where equipment is subjected to high loads, rough surfaces, and potentially hazardous conditions.
Key aspects of protection chains for wheeled heavy machinery in mining
Purpose: The primary purpose of these chains is to prevent catastrophic accidents and minimize the potential risks associated with tire detachment or blowouts on mining equipment. In the event of a tire failure, these protection chains will help to retain the tire on the wheel, preventing it from dislodging and causing you a loss of control or damage.
Construction: Protection chains for mining machinery are engineered to be durable, resistant to wear and tear, and capable of withstanding high tension. They are designed to withstand the extreme forces encountered in mining operations, including heavy loads, rough terrain, and abrasive conditions.
Attachment: The chains are securely fastened around the circumference of the tire and attached to the wheel rim. They are typically equipped with tensioning devices, such as tensioners or ratchets, to ensure a tight and secure fit.
Compatibility: You can find protection chains in different sizes and configurations to accommodate your tire dimensions and your vehicle type. It is essential you select chains that are compatible with your specific tire size and your vehicle model to ensure proper fitment and functionality.
Maintenance and Inspection: You should do regular maintenance and inspection of your protection chains to maintain optimal chain performance and prolong their service life. Mining companies typically have maintenance protocols in place to monitor and replace chains as needed, considering factors such as wear, damage, or fatigue. Please check the protocols in your workplace!
Protection chains provide you an extra layer of security, particularly in rugged mining terrains where equipment is subjected to high loads, rough surfaces, and potentially hazardous conditions. By employing these chains, mining companies can mitigate the risks associated with tire failures and enhance the safety of their operations.
How protection chains have got your back? Let’s take a closer look
What if your tire fails but you are using protection chains? In the event of a tire failure, such as a blowout or sudden deflation, protection chains play a critical role in retaining the tire on your vehicle’s wheel, preventing it from completely dislodging. This could help you to mitigate the potential consequences that can arise from tire detachment, including loss of control and damage. Here’s a more detailed explanation of how protection chains assist in this regard:
Containment of Tire: When a tire failure occurs, the protection chains tightly encircle the tire’s circumference. The chains create a secure barrier around the tire, acting as a secondary support system to prevent it from detaching or coming completely off the wheel.
Chain Engagement: The chains interlock with the tire, exerting tension and pressure on its surface. This engagement helps to hold the tire in place and restrict its movement, even during sudden deflation or significant damage.
Restricting Tire Movement: The chains limit the mobility of the damaged tire, preventing it from bouncing, rolling, or shifting excessively.
Reduction of Secondary Hazards: When a tire detaches or dislodges, it can pose serious risks, such as striking other equipment, structures, or personnel. The utilization of protection chains minimizes the likelihood of these secondary hazards by effectively retaining the tire on the wheel, preventing it from becoming a loose and uncontrolled object.
By retaining the tire on the wheel, protection chains allow the mining vehicle operator to maintain a higher level of control over their equipment, facilitating safer operation even in the event of a tire failure. This control can be crucial in mitigating the risk of accidents, minimizing damage to the vehicle, surrounding infrastructure, and ensuring the safety of the operators and other personnel.
Protection chains are the heroes in the mining industry. These chains provide an extra layer of safety and security for your wheeled heavy machinery. It is built with strength and resilience, playing a crucial role in preventing tire detachment or failure, safeguarding you against accidents and damage. You can find various types available, such as mining equipment chains and snow chains, protection chains that offer specialized features for different applications.
