Chains, Cables & Cable Locks

Chains, Cables & Cable Locks

Chains, steel cables, and cable locks serve a wide range of securing, lifting, and restraint applications in workshops, on worksites, and in logistics operations. The right product for the job depends on the load, the environment, and whether strength, flexibility, or security is the primary requirement. AIMS Industrial supplies chains, wire rope, and cable locks for industrial and trade use across Australia.

Transport and Securing Chain

Grade 43 and Grade 70 high-tensile steel chain is used for load restraint in transport and logistics — securing loads on truck trays and trailers in compliance with the Load Restraint Guide. Grade 70 (gold chromate finish) is the standard for transport load restraint — its higher working load limit and compliance with Australian transport regulation makes it the correct choice for securing cargo on public roads. Chain must be used with appropriate load binders (lever-type or ratchet-type) that are rated to the same or greater working load limit as the chain.

Lifting Chain (Grade 80 and Grade 100)

Lifting slings and assemblies require Grade 80 (alloy steel) or Grade 100 chain rated for overhead lifting use. These are manufactured to AS 3776 and stamped with the WLL for single-leg and multi-leg configurations. Grade 43 and Grade 70 transport chain must never be used for overhead lifting — they are not rated for dynamic lifting loads and can fail without warning. If you are lifting with chain, confirm the chain is Grade 80 or Grade 100 and is accompanied by a current certification and inspection record.

Wire Rope and Steel Cable

Steel wire rope (commonly called steel cable) offers high strength, flexibility, and resistance to abrasion where rigid chain would be impractical. Common configurations include 6×19 (more flexible, moderate abrasion resistance) and 6×7 (stiffer, better abrasion resistance) constructions in ungalvanised and galvanised finishes. Galvanised wire rope is specified for outdoor and marine applications where corrosion resistance is needed. Wire rope is used in winching, crane applications, cable barrier systems, and architectural applications.

Cable Locks

Cable locks use a looped or straight section of flexible steel cable with an integral or padlock-secured locking mechanism. Common security applications include securing equipment, machinery, vehicles, and assets in the field where a fixed anchor is available. Cable locks are not a high-security solution for determined attack but are effective against opportunistic theft. For higher security requirements, a hardened shackle security chain with a quality padlock provides significantly more resistance to cutting tools.

Fittings and Accessories

Chain and cable fittings — D-shackles, grab hooks, sling hooks, turnbuckles, thimbles, ferrules, and rope clips — are available to suit most standard chain and wire rope sizes. All fittings used in lifting or load restraint must be rated to at least the same WLL as the chain or cable they are attached to.

Order from AIMS Industrial

AIMS Industrial stocks transport chain, lifting chain, wire rope, cable locks, and associated fittings. For WLL calculations or compliance questions, contact our team.