Upgrade Mining Gear with Grade 120 Chains

Chain failure brings mining operations to their knees faster than any other equipment breakdown.

Unplanned downtime is a big part of this. When equipment breaks down, mining companies can lose an average of $187,500 per hour! And in today’s mines, stricter safety rules and higher equipment expectations make every operation more challenging.

We at RUD Chains have specialised in mining chain solutions for over 140 years, developing patented Grade 120 technology specifically for demanding industrial applications.

As the strongest lifting standard available, they ensure your equipment performs at its best. And we’re here to help you get the most from your equipment with these Grade 120 chains.

This article will walk you through why Grade 120 chains are essential for modern mining teams looking to boost safety and productivity.

Why Mining Companies Choose Grade 120 Chains

Think of Grade 120 chains as the ultimate workhorses of the mining world used by specialists like Duncan Wanblad. These chains use advanced alloy steel with a unique square-link design that makes them incredibly strong.

What makes them special is their ICE grade quality, which makes them handle extreme heat and cold, from -60°C to +300°C, without breaking down. They’re also built to resist cracking, even in the toughest conditions.

Here’s what makes Grade 120 chains stand out in other ways:

Performance Stats vs. Grade 80 and Grade 100 Chains

We found from our research that Grade 120 chains can lift 50% more weight than Grade 80 chains of the same size. When you compare them to Grade 100 chains, they’re still 25% stronger.

The breaking point is even more impressive. These chains can handle 60% more force than Grade 80 options thanks to their square-link shape, which spreads the load across each link.

How 50% More Strength at Smaller Diameter Reduces Weight

The smart design of these chains means you can use a thinner chain for the same job. This is because the square links distribute weight so well, you don’t need as much material (cutting total weight by over 30%!).

So your crew can install them faster and with less strain. Plus, you save money on transport costs when your equipment weighs less.

Use Cases

Mining companies pick these chains for the hard jobs, where regular chains just can’t keep up or wear out too fast. For example:

Heavy lifting jobs that push equipment to its limits
Long shifts in harsh conditions where reliability matters most
Rough terrain where sharp rocks and impacts damage regular chains

These chains are also great for slings, drag systems, and lifting gear on mining sites, and they keep performing even under constant stress.

Because of this reliability, upgrading your chains can have a big impact on both safety and productivity.

How Chain Upgrades Improve Safety and Productivity

Lower-grade chains trap you in an expensive cycle that never ends. So, let’s look at how upgrading your chain systems can transform your entire operation’s safety record and productivity levels.

Real-world Benefits

When you upgrade your chains, the improvements show up immediately in your daily operations. Your team will notice the difference right away, and so will your bottom line.

Fewer chain inspections: Grade 120 chains fight off wear and damage so much better than other grades that your crew doesn’t need to check them as often. This frees up your team to handle other important tasks around the site.

Less frequent replacements: Replacements happen far less often with upgraded chains. The superior materials and construction mean you’re not constantly ordering new equipment or dealing with supply chain delays.

Better load balance and lift confidence: Better load balance gives operators more confidence during lifts. The weight spreads more evenly, so you don’t get that dangerous swaying and instability that can lead to accidents or dropped loads.

Safety Improvements

These upgrades make your worksite much safer, too. The new chains handle stress from repeated use far better than the old ones. In mining, where machines work around the clock with heavy loads, this can’t be overlooked.

But the best part is that these chains can absorb shocks without breaking, which keeps both your workers and equipment safe when unexpected forces happen.

Compatibility and Retrofitting

Now, you might be wondering if your current equipment will be compatible with these new chains. But good news! Most mining equipment handles Grade 120 chains just fine without big changes. So you don’t have to buy completely new lifting systems to get these benefits.

But sometimes you need a few extra pieces to connect everything properly. Things like special links or connectors can help new chains work with your existing hooks (and they don’t cost much).

Your trucks and other mobile equipment get an extra benefit, too. Since stronger chains can be thinner and lighter, your machines use less fuel. They also don’t have to work as hard, which means less wear on engines and hydraulic parts.

Now you can see how much chain upgrades really help your operation. The next step is figuring out the best way to start making these changes.

Choose the Right Chain Slings and Suppliers

Making the switch to better chains requires asking the right questions upfront. Here are some good questions to consider asking:

Is it ICE grade certified?
Does it meet your load and safety requirements?
Can it be customised or locally supported?

Now, when choosing suppliers, we’ve got an essential checklist for you as well:

First, verify they comply with Australian mining standards and safety regulations.
Second, make sure they offer proper engineering support to help design your upgrade.
Finally, check that they maintain good inventory levels and can supply spare parts quickly.

And we’re proud to say our RUD Chains tick all these boxes. Our team provides certified Grade 120 solutions, engineering expertise, and reliable local support across Australia.

So if you’re ready to upgrade your operation with stronger, safer chains, contact us today to discuss your lifting solutions and get a personalised quote for your mining equipment needs.