Skid chains

Logging chains adapted for forestry work are essential for efficient and safe logging. They must have high resistance, particularly with specific steels such as grade 80 or 10, and a high breaking load. Choosing the right accessories is equally crucial.

Logging Chain for Forestry Work

The logging chain is specifically designed to move logs and other heavy materials in the forest. It stands out for its robustness and its ability to withstand high stresses.

Short or long links depend on the type of work being performed. Short links provide greater resistance and limit the risk of snagging on the ground. Long links facilitate handling and quick attachment but have slightly lower resistance.

The finish of these chains also plays an important role. A galvanized chain is more resistant to corrosion and is well suited for humid environments. Raw steel chains are resistant but require regular maintenance to prevent rust.

What length to choose?
Everything depends on the average distance to be covered during logging. A common length is between 4 and 10 meters. Handling becomes difficult with chains that are too long.

Conversely, chains that are too short require repeated handling and increase the risk of accidents.

What is a Logging Chain Used For?

A logging chain is mainly used to pull logs or trunks to an accessible location. It is used for various tasks: felling, traditional or mechanized skidding, cleanup after felling.

The chain is attached directly to the log with suitable hooks. It then allows a winch or tractor to pull heavy loads without excessive effort. It is an effective and simple alternative to steel cables, which require more precautions in use.

In the forest, the chain can also be used to move or straighten fallen or dangerous trees. It offers the possibility of working remotely, thus avoiding direct risks for forestry workers.

In some cases, chains are used with accessories such as return pulleys. These accessories increase the pulling force while reducing stress on the chain itself.

Logging Chain for Tractor, Winch, Forestry Machine

Chains for tractors, winches, or forestry machines vary depending on the pulling capacity of the equipment.

For a classic forestry tractor, a chain capable of withstanding several tons is necessary. Generally, a chain with a diameter between 10 and 13 mm is perfectly suitable.

With a mechanical or hydraulic winch, the chain must withstand sudden and repeated tensions. Choosing a larger chain diameter ensures better resistance and increased safety. For intensive use, a chain with a diameter of 13 to 16 mm is recommended.

Modern forestry machines, such as forwarders or harvesters, require chains adapted to their high power. Here, reinforced chains made of grade 10 steel are often preferred because they offer superior resistance while remaining relatively light and manageable.

Also remember to adapt the hooks and rings to the chosen chains. An unsuitable hook weakens the assembly and increases the risk of breakage or accident.

Grade 10, Grade 80 Steel... Which Steel Grade to Choose?

Choose the right steel for your logging equipment to ensure the safety and efficiency of forestry work. The two main categories used in logging are grade 80 steel and grade 10.

Grade 80 steel has long been commonly used in logging. It has high breaking strength and good corrosion resistance. This grade is ideal for chains subjected to regular but moderate pulling. It is perfectly suited for light to medium logging. However, it is not recommended for very heavy loads.

Grade 10 steel is newer and more efficient. It is specially designed to withstand the most demanding working conditions. Its breaking strength is significantly higher, about 25% more compared to grade 80. This grade allows the use of smaller diameter chains while maintaining equal or even superior resistance. It also reduces the overall weight and facilitates handling.

High Breaking Load

The breaking load refers to the maximum capacity a chain can withstand before breaking.

The breaking load is directly related to the diameter and grade of steel used.
For example, a 10 mm diameter grade 80 chain generally has a breaking load of around 6 tons. A chain of the same diameter in grade 10 can reach nearly 8 tons.

Always choose a chain whose breaking load is much higher than the maximum intended pulling capacity. This is to prevent the risk of accidents and extend the life of the chain.

Essential Accessories for Logging

Safe and efficient logging requires appropriate accessories. Among the essentials are:

• Forestry hooks: Hooks specially designed to facilitate quick attachment and detachment of chains to logs.
• Shackles: Essential for securely connecting several chains together or for attaching a chain to another element such as a winch.
• Return pulleys: Very useful for changing the pulling direction or multiplying the pulling force while reducing chain wear.
• Tensioners: Allow precise adjustment of chain tension, thus facilitating the secure transport of loads.
• Swivels: Accessories that prevent chain twisting during long or complex pulls, extending its lifespan.

Chains and accessories must be regularly inspected and maintained. Regular visual inspection allows quick detection of signs of wear, corrosion, or deformation, thus ensuring optimal safety conditions.

You can also use textile cables and braids specially designed for logging.
We recommend products made of Dyneema, a highly technical textile fiber renowned for its high resistance to friction or breakage, as well as its excellent handling and durability.