FAQs: General Purpose Chain and Fittings

General purpose chain is more commonly referred to as Proof Coil Chain. It is made in a variety of link sizes for a wide range of industrial and agricultural non-lifting purposes e.g., fences, barriers, roof supports, etc. Proof Coil Chain comes in two link formations; regular and long. It does not have a stamping every 0.5m.

A chain is calibrated when each link is pulled to an exact length and pitch. This is necessary when it is used within a sprocket wheel. Calibrated chain is fitted to devices such as hoists and chain blocks so it aligns with the internal gears and runs smoothly. Calibrated hand chain is also used to operate manual chain blocks, manual geared trolleys, roller doors etc.

Grade L & P are chains that are designed for lifting. Grade L chain is more commonly used as anchor chain and lifting chain in galvanising factories due to the environment in which they are used the lower grade steel that make this chain holds up better in these corrosive environments.

5mm long link calibrated hand chain which is electro zinc plated is best suited for roller door type applications.

Chain is manufactured in a continuous length on automated chain making machines which do not allow individual links to be manufactured. If individual links are required, you must purchase double the amount of links needed and cut every second link.

Yes, Ranger supply stainless steel chain for a whole range of applications, please contact your nearest branch and speak with one of our technical sales team to advise what product would suit.

Flail Chain is used to remove bark from timber. It is specifically hardened to wear well in an abrasive environment.

Trailer Safety Chain, unlike Proof Coil Chain must go through extra processes and testing to ensure it complies with the requirements of Australian Standard 4177.4 – ‘Caravan and light trailer towing components Part 4: Safety chains up to 3500kg capacity’.

Liability could be possible in the event of an accident if any components do not comply with Australian Design rule 62/01 – Mechanical connections between vehicles, liability and lawsuits are possible.

Trailers above 3.5 tonnes Aggregate Trailer Mass are subject to comply with other regulations and may incorporate chain from Australian Standard, AS 2321 for ‘Short Link Chain for Lifting Purposes’ which encompasses a range of Grade 80 chain. There are minimal practical applications for the 6mm size. It also difficult to stamp, which is a requirement of Australian Standard 4177.4. The most common ‘box-trailers’ up to 3.5 tonnes utilise the 8mm, 10mm & 13mm Trailer Safety Chain in accordance with the appropriate Australian Design Rules.

Trailer Safety Chain is designed in sizes according to the capacities required on the Aggregate Trailer Mass (ATM). 8mm is for trailers up to 1.6 tonnes ATM (Stamped ‘PWB 4177-16’). 10mm is for trailers up to 2.5 tonnes ATM (Stamped ‘PWB 4177-25’). 13mm is for trailers up to 3.5 tonnes ATM (stamped ‘PWB 4177-35’).

Self- colour (natural steel finish) chain can be welded directly on to the drawbar and the trailer may then be painted or galvanised. Hot-dip Galvanising is a process designed to prevent oxidation (rust) and deterioration of the product. Galvanised TSC cannot be welded easily.

Trailer Safety Chain is not suitable for industrial lifting purposes.