What are Grade 70 Chains?

There are several grades of chains available.  From Grade 30 to Grade 120.  The grades are based on the chains ultimate breaking strength, measured in N/mm^2. The higher the grade the higher the breaking strength.

Example:  Grade 70 chain is rated at 700 Newton per millimeter squared (101,526 Pound-force per square inch) while Grade 80 is rated at 800 Newton per millimeter squared )116,030 Pound-force per square inch).  

Grade 70 chains, also known as transport chain or trucker’s chain, are designed as load securement.  Used in towing, trucking, logging, construction, agriculture, and other industries or applications that require load binding.
The most recognizable feature of these chains is the golden color they have due to their yellow chromate coating.

G70 chains are made from a higher strength, heat-treated carbon steel  and have a load rating approximately 20 percent higher than Grade 43.  The gold chromate coating offers them more resistance to rust and corrosion.  These chains have become the most common grade of chain used on flatbeds.  Truckers have dubbed these chains, trucker chains, binder chains, load chains, and binding chains.

G70 chains come in several sizes from 1/4” to 5/8”, but the most popular sizes are 5/16”, 3/8”, and 1/2”.  

5/16” has a working strength of 4,700 LBS & a Breaking Strength of 18,800 LBS
3/8” has a working strength of 46,600 LBS & a Breaking Strength of 26,400 LBS
1/2” has a working strength of 11,300 LBS & a Breaking Strength of 45,200 LBS

At Baremotion we supply Grade 70  in a variety of lengths as well as custom lengths.  All chains meet NACM (National Association of Chain Manufacturers) & ASTM Standards (American Society for Testing and Materials) as well as DOT (Department of Transportation) regulations.

We offer chains in bulk with no hook attachments or individual chains with several hook options, the most popular one being clevis grab hooks on each end.  These hooks also have a yellow zinc chromate finish and are meant to be used with grade 70 transport chains. The hook options are Grab Hooks, Slip Hooks, and towing hooks since grade 70 is widely used in the towing industry.

Grab Hook or Clevis Grab Hook:  These hooks are designed with a narrow throat that is used to shorten the chains.  The chain link is passed through the throat for non-slip handling.
Slip Hook:  Has the same function as the grab hook but is designed with a wider throat
Towing Hooks:  Grade 70 Towing chains come with a variety of hooks.  They can come with Long J-Hooks, short J-Hooks, cluster RTJ hooks, Mini-J hooks, and more.  The style required will depend on the vehicle you are towing.

We also offer binder options.  Load Binders, also known as Chain Binders, are a ratcheting device used to tighten transport chain and secure tie-down cargo. There are two common types of binders:  Ratchet Binder & Lever Binder.

Ratchet Binders: Have a ratchet handle and two tension hooks on each end.  They use a ratcheting mechanism.  These binders are known to be the safer option since the handle is less likely to snap back at you.



Lever Binders: These binders have a simpler design but use a lever to tighten the chain.   They are easier to use but require more strength than ratchet binders and have a higher risk of accidental recoil.

When using any chains, no matter the grade, there are always precautions you must take.  Most importantly never exceed the working load limit!

When transporting cargo it's important to know its dimensions and weight - length, weight and cargo type.  This will insure you use the correct number of tie-downs  to secure your load. For more information check out the Cargo Securement Rules at the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA).

Chain Safety

• It’s vital to regularly inspect chains and their hook attachments for any damage.  If you have any kind of uncertainty, do not use the chain.  Either discard it or if possible send it to a rigging house for inspection.  
• Any crack or wear can affect the chain working load and it’s ability to function properly.
• Chains should also be checked after use in any work environment that exposes them to acids or corrosive liquids as these elements can change the chain’s effectiveness.
• Grade 70 chains should NEVER be used for overhead lifting.

*Not recommended for overhead lifting applications.  See Grade 100 Chains if chain will be used for overhead lifting.

At Baremotion, we  have partnered up with major rigging houses in the industry allowing us to provide our customers with top quality product.  For a quote on assemblies please email us at Sales@Baremotion.com

All gear should be thoroughly inspected before each and every use. Worn or unsafe rigging and safety gear should never be used.  Products should be used in strict accordance with all industry and OSHA standards (Occupational Safety & Health Administration) .