Hear our product manager, Torben Wiberg, tell you what to look out for when choosing a new lashing in this short video:
What is a ratchet lashing strap?
Ratchet lashing straps have many names. Ratchet lashing straps are available in an incredible number of models, but the common feature is that they are used to secure goods. Ratchet lashing straps are available in many different widths, in different lengths, with many different end fittings and in many different colors. All the properties of the lashing therefore have an impact on the strength.
All our ratchet lashing straps are manufactured and marked in accordance with applicable regulations and, of course, manufactured and marked in accordance with DIN EN12195-2. The mandatory information on the label for the lashing is: The standard according to which the lashing is produced, manufacturer, length, lashing capacity (LC = LashingCapacity), tension force (STF = StandardTensionForce) / Standard Force (SHF = StandardHandForce), Material: Blue label = PES – Polyester , Green label = PA – Polyamide and Brown label = PP – Polypropylene. Traceability code, production date, warning that the lashing must not be used for lifting, extension at stated lashing capacity (LC).
Why are the vast majority of ratchet lashing straps made of polyester?
We would like to believe that over 90% of all ratchet lashing straps are made with webbing of polyester (abbreviated PES). This is because the material has a very good abrasion resistance, has good properties against acid and, not least, that the material hardly absorbs water - this is useful when used in, for example, rainy weather.
Can ratchet lashing straps get too old?
The short answer is no. There is no maximum lifespan for ratchet lashing straps, but if they are damaged, they should be replaced immediately – you should also be aware that sunlight can damage / break down polyester. We do not recommend that lashings are older than 10 years.
What are ratchet lashing straps made of?
Ratchet lashing straps are most often made of polyester webbing. Another widely used material is steel chain which is seen on chain lashings. Steel chain is available in different dimensions and steel qualities - chain lashings are often used for larger lashing tasks on e.g. truck trailers, SPMT's etc. For larger and smaller lashing tasks, it is also possible to replace the steel chain with a chain made of HMPE fiber, this type of chain can be made of HMPE fiber or with Dyneema®. HMPE has the same advantages as when it is used for lifting gear, namely the chain is up to 80% lighter than a similar steel chain with the same breaking strength - at the same time it is soft, easy to handle and the chain does not rust.
Which ratchet lashing straps should I choose?
25 mm ratchet lashing strap:
This type of lashing is available in both 2-part variants with hooks and in endless versions. Variants with this webbing width are often ideal for lashing smaller goods such as e.g. building materials or smaller objects. They are often used on car trailers, inside and outside vans but can be used almost anywhere.
35 mm ratchet lashing strap:
The type is available both in 2-part variants with hooks, in endless versions and with different end fittings etc. Ratchet lashing straps with this webbing width are often used for slightly larger lashing tasks, e.g. for lashing goods on machine trailers as well as on smaller trucks etc.
50 mm ratchet lashing straps:
This width is the one we sell by far the most. The most used is a 2-part variant, but lashings with 50 mm webbing width are also available in endless versions and with a lot of different end fittings. This webbing wisth is used in a wide range of professions for an incredible variety of tasks. It is also the webbing width you most often see on trucks etc.
75-100 mm ratchet lashing strap:
This webbing width is for the really big jobs when heavy goods need to be secured. This webbing width is most often delivered in 2 parts with hooks but is also available in endless variants.
Should I choose a two-piece ratchet lashing strap or endless lashing strap?
Advantages of an endless lashing straps
Endless lashings straps are ideal if they are to be used all the way around the item being transported. This is because one end of the lashing strap, which is not attached to the ratchet, is led around the loas and into the buckle or ratchet. An endless lashing straps therefore forms a loop that can be tightened via the buckles or ratchet.
Advantages of a 2-part ratchet lashing straps
This is mostly used on trucks etc. this is because a 2-part lashing is designed for e.g. to hold solid, non-deformable items in place.
How many ratchet lashing straps should I use?
There are an enormous number of factors that influence the choice of the model you use - there is even no upper limit to how heavy loads / goods you can secure with ratchet lashing straps - it is only the number of ratchet lashing straps and the type that defines this. BUT there are many factors that come into play, e.g. weight of the goods, friction, mode of transport etc.
In principle, there is no upper limit to how much goods ratchet lashing straps can hold, and it is only the amount and type of ratchet lashing straps that defines this.
Do you want good advice on choosing ratchet lashing straps?
Regardless of what you call them - you are always welcome to contact our team on 70 15 20 15 or fku@fku.dk! We are always ready to help with guidance and perhaps good advice for your ratchet lashing straps! Contact us here!
