Southampton, UK based Dynamic Load Monitoring (DLM), a leading load cell and monitoring specialist, is experiencing a surge in demand for its telemetry shackles designed for towing and pulling applications in North America. This increased demand is being effectively met through the company's collaboration with Chant Engineering Co., based in New Britain, Pennsylvania, who serves as a trusted distributor.
The telemetry shackle offered by DLM is a robust, marine-grade wireless load cell that incorporates a high-tensile stainless steel load pin. Notably, these shackles have the capability to transmit data to multiple handheld displays, with an impressive line-of-sight range of 800m (2,625 ft.). Crafted from durable stainless steel, these shackles deliver exceptional performance and reliability.
DLM and Chant have established a longstanding partnership, with Chant distributing a wide range of DLM's load cells, load monitoring systems, and cable working equipment to various industries. DLM specialises in the design, manufacture, repair, and calibration of load cells, load monitoring solutions, and cable working equipment, catering to sectors such as offshore, renewable energy, marine, subsea, and lifting and rigging.
Chant, also of British heritage, offers diversified engineering solutions, including the design, manufacturing, servicing, and calibration of testing machines, systems, and related accessories for industrial and military clients.
Chant has been stocking and distributing DLM's standard tensile load links (SL-3.0) with capacities up to 50 tons, as well as handheld displays (TW-3.0-S), in the United States since 2015. It has further expanded its reach through a sub-distribution network. While the towing industry primarily relies on hydraulic systems to lift and transport vehicles, other sectors, such as lifting and marine work, involve more intricate machinery like cranes and hoists.
According to DLM, shackle load cells and load links are becoming increasingly indispensable in the towing industry. Over the past three years, Chant has witnessed a doubling of sales for load links and shackles in the towing sector, and this growth trend continues. Tow truck operators often encounter emergency situations where they need to swiftly and securely recover vehicles. Shackle load cells and load links provide a dependable connection between the tow truck and the vehicle being recovered, making them essential tools for the job.
In an industry as competitive as towing, operators who can deliver fast, efficient, and safe recovery services often command higher prices for their expertise. The utilisation of high-quality shackle load cells and load links allows operators to differentiate themselves from competitors and attract more business.
Chant recently showcased the product range at a prominent exhibition in the United States, providing valuable exposure. Chris Scrutton, technical director at DLM, noted that load cells are relatively new technology for many stakeholders in the sector. However, they recognise the significant safety enhancements that can be achieved through the combination of this technology and robust hardware.
Scrutton added, "Certain equipment can be claimed back on insurance for recovery vehicles in the US, meaning that recovery firms can improve the safety of their operations while also getting their investment back, creating a win-win situation."
In towing and pulling applications, the use of shackles to connect equipment is a standard practice. Shackles are widely employed in the tow truck industry to secure vehicles during transportation. They are crucial for towing various vehicle types, including cars, trucks, SUVs, and vans. The appropriate shackle size and strength depend on the size and weight of the vehicle being towed or recovered. However, it is vital to approach the rigging process with caution and expertise to prevent equipment damage and ensure safety. Careful selection of the right shackle size and weight capacity for each application is essential, and regular inspections for defects or damage are necessary before use.
