When it comes to securing loads, two popular options often come to mind: ratchet straps and cam buckle straps. Although they are both used for the purpose of securing items in place, cam buckle straps have become extremely popular. So here we’ll break down the key differences between these two types of straps and give you tangible benefits and rundowns of both.
As mentioned, cam buckle straps are quite popular for several reasons, and it’s quite clear to see why. These straps are designed with a simple yet very effective system that provides the best results in terms of support and comfort. Here's what makes them stand out:
Quick and Easy Operation: This buckle has a cam lock that can be easily tightened and released, making it suitable for applications where the loads must be secured and then released.
User-Friendly Design: Cam buckle straps are easy to use, and therefore even those who are new to the job of load-securing will be able to use the straps easily without any training.
Gentle on Cargo: The controlled tension (which is one of the main features of cam buckles) minimises the chances of over straining - which is ideal in holding fragile objects.
Compact and Lightweight: Cam buckle straps are usually smaller in size than ratchet straps, and this makes them easy to store as well as transport.
Versatility: Cam buckle straps can be used anywhere from the securing of luggage on a roof rack to tying down equipment in a van.
While cam buckle straps excel in many areas, ratchet straps have their place in the world of load securing as well:
Higher Load Capacity: Ratchet straps are mostly stronger than other types of straps and therefore ideal for use in handling much weight.
Precise Tensioning: Due to the ratchet mechanism, it is possible to achieve a very high and precise tension of the strap.
Locking Mechanism: Once the ratchet is squeezed to tighten the strap, it locks into position, to prevent slippage during the transportation of the load.
One of the key differences between these two types of straps is their strength:
Cam Buckle Straps: • They are normally available for load capacities up to 750kg
• Ideal to use for securing goods when in transit in the back of a van or on the roof of a car or for general use when doing DIY tasks. • Recommended for use in cases whereby over tightening can lead to damage of the cargo.
Ratchet Straps: • Can secure loads of up to 5000kg • This type of function is more suitable for use in construction and large-scale transports.
The usability factor is where cam buckle straps truly shine:
Cam Buckle Straps: • User-friendly and easy to learn even without prior knowledge of how to use the application. • Very easy to engage and disengage making it suitable for frequent changes of loads • It also avoids the over-tightening, which is likely to damage some delicate items which may be in the house besides the screws.
Ratchet Straps: • It has some learning curve to use it properly • When mounted, they can be closed with substantial force on the ring, which is good but also dangerous. • May be excessive for basic load straining Durability and Longevity
Both types of straps have their pros and cons when it comes to lifespan:
Cam Buckle Straps: • It is also very easy to clean and maintain, which is something very important for any product.
Ratchet Straps: • A ratchet mechanism may degrade with time especially if it is subjected to much stress.
At Lifting Gear Direct, we have noticed that most of our customers opt for cam buckle straps since these are relatively easy to use and very convenient. They're an excellent choice for:
- Everyday Use: It is very useful in holding items in vehicles, and in trailers. - DIY Projects: Great for the home improvement projects and any other small construction work - Outdoor Activities: It is perfect for camping, kayaking and any other recreational activity. - Light Commercial Use: Ideal to impart information for several small business purposes. However, for very heavy loads - the ratchet straps could be preferable. Though both are widely used for load securing, cam buckle straps have gained much demand in the market. These are easy to use, very versatile, and are very careful with the cargo that they are handling, hence suitable for use in many applications.
Whether you are attaching a kayak on top of your car, fastening items in a work van or organising stock in a small storeroom, cam buckle straps are a simple and effective way of doing so. The reason for this is that they have a quick-release mechanism and are less likely to over-tighten loads which make them ideal where loads are to be secured and released regularly.
Note that regardless of the type of strap that you are using, ensure that you use it within the recommended working load limit and with the appropriate safety measures. That is why at Lifting Gear Direct we are always here to assist you in selecting the right load securing solution that you may require from our cam buckle straps to any other lifting and securing equipment.
