The wide-strap version of Sapphire LoadFix is designed for insulation, foam, paper and other crushable loads that could be damaged by a conventional narrow restraint strap. It uses the standard LoadFix roof-mounted bungee suspension system but incorporates a much wider flexible section where the restraint assembly passes over the load.
Why use a wider restraint strap?
A standard 50mm strap concentrates its restraint force across a relatively narrow area. On soft or damage-sensitive products, this may crush the material or leave indentations that affect the condition of the delivered load.
The wide-strap LoadFix assembly distributes the restraint force over a larger contact area. This reduces localised pressure on the product while retaining the rated performance of the EN 12195-2 restraint assembly.
Reducing the tension of a standard strap may leave the load insufficiently restrained. Increasing the contact area provides a way to protect the product without changing the required restraint force.
Flexible PVC load-contact section
The portion of the assembly that passes over the load is typically manufactured from flexible PVC material. This section follows the shape of the load and avoids creating a narrow pressure point across its upper surface.
The sections connecting the wide PVC restraint to the side raves are standard 50mm webbing straps. The complete loose strap assembly, including its main strap and tail, is labelled by Sapphire in accordance with EN 12195-2 and is tensioned using a ratchet mechanism.
Widths to suit the load
The width of the flexible load-contact section can be selected according to how sensitive the product is to pressure. Typical widths range from approximately 100mm to 600mm, with wider sections providing a larger contact area over particularly delicate loads.
The gallery shows examples of different wide-strap configurations manufactured to suit particular products and operating requirements.
Typical applications
Wide-Strap LoadFix is commonly specified by operators carrying crushable or easily marked products, including insulation materials, foam and paper. More solid loads that are not susceptible to pressure damage would normally only require the standard 50mm LoadFix restraint strap.
Uses the standard LoadFix suspension system
The wide restraint assembly is suspended from the same roof-mounted bungee and roller system used by standard LoadFix. It remains above the loading area while goods are positioned and is pulled down over the load when required.
When released, the bungee cord retracts the assembly into the dead roof space. The suspension system does not change the restraint rating of the EN 12195-2 strap assembly.
