Proposed changes to chain test standards will include fatigue resistance.
The chains used on forklift truck masts will have to demonstrate a high level of fatigue resistant under proposed changes to ISO 4347 – the international standard governing the manufacture of that type of leaf chain.
Currently, manufacturers only have to demonstrate that their products comply with breaking load guidelines.
The changes are expected to be adopted within the next 12 months.
“Anyone tasked with acquiring new leaf chain should ensure that what they are buying has been thoroughly tested for both breaking load and fatigue resistance,” said Jim Cameron, technical director of FB Chain and a member of the International Standards committee tasked with overhauling the current guidelines.
