Chains are one of several multipurpose pieces of equipment used in the industrial setting. An industrial chain's role on the job site includes security, equipment protection, transport and much more. Your company may need chains regularly or occasionally, like a tire protection chain in snowy weather. Whatever the case, time must be spent determining the use and type before you buy industrial chains.

Chain manufacturers offer a wide range of accessories such as chain links, hooks, tightening tools and fasteners as well. Thus, it's important to know the type of chain your project needs.

1. Establish the specific and primary use for the industrial chain.

2. Determine the size (length, weight and strength) of the chain needed.

3. Find a supplier that specializes in your particular industrial chain needs.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Establish the specific and primary use for the industrial chain before ordering

Ask yourself, is the chain for logging, trucking, farming or use on a passenger vehicle? The answer guides the retail or wholesale chain manufacturers to the right product for you like towing chains, tire chains, or steel or heavy-duty chains that are wear and weather resistant in severe weather.

I recommend: Industrial Chain & Cable, a division of Wallingford's Inc., offers many types of chains and accessories for industrial or heavy-duty use. Peerless has a complete catalog detailing the need and name for each part.

Determine the appropriate size of industrial chain for your project

You must have the right size chain for the project. Failing to do so increases the risk of an industrial accident. Select chains of the appropriate strength, length and weight to serve your purposes.

I recommend: RUD Chain offers detailed descriptions of products from vehicle and equipment chains to lifting and conveyor system chains, including potential sizes, weight and strengths available. Use HK Chain USA's online tool to input the exact specifications you need. In return, the system provides a list of industrial chains for sale.

Find a supplier that specializes in your particular industrial chain needs

Specialty chain suppliers offer a product geared toward your particular industry. Although some uses, such as towing, may be universal, the equipment needed to tow or do the towing may vary across industries. After determining you chain needs, look for a supplier that specializes in your field.

I recommend: A chain manufacturer does gear products toward specific industries. CM Complete Lifting Systems, an online connection to Columbus McKinnon products, is a supplier of marine chain and heavy-duty industrial chains for construction, including hoisting chains. Potter Webster's online catalogue offers industrial chain solutions for the trucking industry.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  The integrity of equipment you use has a promising effect on clients. Inadequate chains result in lost time due to breakdowns and accidents. Spend time choosing quality industrial chains to prevent such occurrences.