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US Cargo Control becomes Official Supplier of Straightpoint Load Monitoring Loadcells

Straightpoint, a Crosby owned company, has announced US Cargo Control, a leader in the lifting and rigging equipment sales industry, as an official supplier.

In addition to providing a large selection of essential lifting and rigging equipment, including wire rope slings, chain slings, polyester round slings, shackles, and more– the online retailer now offers complimentary load cell monitoring tools in a variety of styles and capabilities.

Load cells translate pressure into electrical signals that allow operators of various lifting and rigging applications to precisely measure and safely monitor the tension of loads involving wire rope, guy wire, synthetic rope, shackles, and more. They are commonly used in oil and gas, shipping, construction, renewable energies, lifting and cranes, mining, staging, test and inspection, and military applications. Load monitoring load cells not only help prolong the life of valuable lifting and rigging equipment, but they can also drastically improve safety on the job and prevent costly accidents.

“We understand that safety and reliability are of the utmost importance for industrial rigging and heavy lift jobs,” said Aaron Orsak, Business Development Manager for Load Monitoring at The Crosby Group. “These Straightpoint load cells allow operators to receive tension readouts from a safe distance, up to 3,280-feet away, and just because they’re electronic doesn’t mean they’ll break. These products are designed to be beaten up, tossed around, and still provide accurate readings.”

Through this partnership, US Cargo Control now offers the full line of popular Straightpoint products including tension load cells (Radiolink Plus and Wirelink Plus), compression load cells, clamp on line tensionmeters, running line dynamometers, shackle load cells, and digital crane scales. You can also rely on US Cargo Control to acquire and become educated on all the different Straightpoint software systems and handheld readers that these load cells are compatible with.

*Tim Sanders, Business Development Consultant, US Cargo Control*

“These Straightpoint loadcells offer unrivaled functionality and durability – nothing else on the market comes close. Whether you’re looking for state-of-the-art wireless load cells that send readouts to a computer or smartphone, or you need cabled load cells that are better equipped for subsea applications – Straightpoint products offer the superior tension measurement solutions you need, and they’re all available right here at USCC.”

About US Cargo Control

Founded in 2005, US Cargo Control is a trusted leader in the cargo control industry, specializing in professional rigging and lifting equipment, trucking and transportation tie downs, and moving supplies. With a superior online shopping experience, industry-experts available via phone, and a central Midwest location, USCC is dedicated to getting you “what you want, when you need it”. For more information visit www.uscargocontrol.com

About Crosby

Crosby is a leading manufacturer of premium accessories used in lifting, rigging and securement applications. Based in the US, the company has the reputation around the world for providing a broad range of products suitable for the most demanding of operating conditions with uncompromising quality. Products include wire rope clips, hooks, shackles, lifting clamps, hoist rings, overhaul balls, snatch blocks, crane blocks and sheaves. Crosby also provides a “world class” training program, focusing on the proper application of Crosby Products.

About Straightpoint

For 40 years Straightpoint has manufactured and supplied cabled and wireless telemetry loadlink, load shackles, load cells, digital dynamometers, compression loadcells, crane scales, running line tensiometers, and software solutions as well as a range of intrinsically safe load cells. Safety, reliability, and quality are paramount in the lifting and rigging industries and so Straightpoint designs and manufactures to the highest standards including ISO9001, DNV-GL Type Approval, ATEX, and IECEx, whilst holding other accreditations and active memberships in key associations such as LEEA, AWRF, SC&RA, and ASME. Straightpoint manufactures load cells from 1t to over 4000t and products offer dynamic load monitoring, weighing, or force measurement solutions and high accuracy with world-class specifications and lead times. Unlike other load cells and digital dynamometers available on the market, the high IP or NEMA rating of Straightpoint load cells means they are impervious to the harshest weather conditions and may be left in place during a lift just like any other item of rigging hardware. Our wireless technology allows antennae free data transmission to 700 meters or 2300 feet and can be connected to the latest Internet of Things (IOT) and industry 4.0 technology. Straightpoint load cells are used in many industries such as oil and gas, shipping, construction, renewable energies, lifting and cranes, topside and tie downs, mining, entertainment, water bag testing, breakbulk, utilities, and military applications. With locations in Hampshire and Aberdeen UK, California, Minneapolis, and Texas USA plus a global network of over 80 authorized distributors.

Do You Know How Much That Weighs? Straightpoint Load Cells Do

USCC now offers a full selection of superior Straightpoint load cell solutions.

If you’re a professional in the rigging and lifting industry, you know that close is never close enough. And guesstimating? Well, that’s just not a great option when you’re talking about lifting a multi-ton load.

Just ask these guys.

Courtesy of: WOOD THINGS!

There’s no question, whether it’s tension on a wire rope assembly or compression caused by a heavy structure, it pays to “know your load” at all times. Be it tons, pounds, or kilograms – just the slightest miscalculation is enough to cause an expensive and perhaps even life-threatening accident.

Luckily, there are load monitoring load cells. Commonly referred to as “tensiometers” or “dynamometers”, load cells use electrical signals to precisely measure the tension of rigged loads involving wire rope, guy wire, synthetic rope, shackles, and other types of rigging equipment.

water testing using straightpoint wireless load cells

What’s the benefit of load cells for lifting?

Safety is of the utmost importance when it comes to complex rigging and heavy lift jobs. Many modern load cells allow operators to receive tension readouts from a safe distance, sometimes several thousand feet away. This is extremely important for applications involving overhead cranes, offshore drilling, tug testing, water bag testing, overhead weighing, cable laying, vehicle recovery, or any type of heavy-lift projects. But not all load cells are created equal.

What’s the best load cell available?

Straightpoint, a Crosby owned company, offers unrivaled load cell tension measurement tools. Their quality and functionality are unsurpassed by any other load cell brand in existence.

sp load cells in use — courtesy of: weighing review

Now, US Cargo Control is proud to be an official supplier of Straightpoint’s intelligent line of load cell load monitoring solutions, including Straightpoint’s long-range wireless load cells and intelligent load cell software that brings your safety into the 21st century.

Don’t put your company and its priceless reputation in unnecessarily dangerous situations. Use Straightpoint Loadcells to take the weight off your shoulders and safety into the palm of your hand.

Types of load cells from Straightpoint

Wireless, Bluetooth-enabled, and classic cabled load cells are all available. Whether you need tension load cells, compression load cells, clamp-on line tensiometers, running line dynamometers, shackles load cells, or mini crane scales – USCC has you covered with a full selection of high-quality Straightpoint products.

Tension Load Cells

straightpoint load cells for tension readings

Tension load cells are great for a wide variety of applications. Radiolink Plus (wireless) and Wirelink Plus (cabled), can handle tension reading capacities up to 500-ton. Towcell is the perfect solution for vehicle load monitoring applications as it fits directly onto a 2” tow ball.

Compression Load Cells

Compression load cells are used to calculate the center of gravity. Straightpoint compression load cells can handle loads up to 1000-ton and you can read up to 100 wireless compression load cells from your computer or tablet and also create real-time test certificates on-site. Wired compression load cells are also available.

Clamp on Line Tensiometers

best tensiometer for measuring wire rope and guy wire tension wirelessly

Straightpoint’s line tensiometer, the COLT, is an industry-leading smartphone-enabled clamp-on line tensiometer. It’s a fast and accurate way to measure wire rope or guy wire tension.

Running Line Dynamometers

Straightpoint’s line of running line dynamometers are able to measure tension, line speed, and distance of wire rope, fiber optic cables, and synthetic rope. These dynamometers are very useful in situations where there is no anchor or dead end on the line.

Shackle Load Cells

wireless load shackle from Straightpoint

Loadshackles from Straightpoint provide the perfect solution to limited headroom or super heavy-lift projects. Wireless load shackles, Bluetooth-only, and cabled versions are all available. Straightpoint Loadshackles are made using Crosby brand shackles. All Loadshackles from Straightpoint have a load-centering bobbin and range in capacity from 3.25- ton to 400-ton.

Miniweigher Crane Scales

Straightpoint Miniweigher Plus crane scales are compact, safe, accurate, and suitable for a number of applications. These wireless crane scales are often mounted between a winch and a tripod, allowing for load monitoring and safe lowering and raising of equipment and personnel. They’re able to handle up to 5 ton.

Straightpoint Loadcell output options

When it comes to viewing tension readings and remotely controlling Straightpoint Loadcells, you have options. Choose wired or wireless handheld controllers, laptop computer/smart device output, or even a wireless LCD scoreboard display.

SW-HHP handheld load cell readout device

Remember, in addition to physical load cell equipment, US Cargo Control also offers compatible Straightpoint computer software and systems.

Expert answers to all your Straightpoint Loadcell questions

We have a team of lifting and rigging equipment specialists that understand Straightpoint Loadcell products in-and-out. Don’t hesitate to give them a call at 800-404-7068 for fast and friendly answers to all your load cell questions.

4 Customers Use US Cargo Control Products in Fun and Unexpected Ways

Check out 4 customers using US Cargo Control products in fun, creative, and unexpected ways!

Recently, some happy customers sent us photos of the different ways they used our products to make things easier…or more fun! Although our products are primarily designed for the industries we serve: trucking and transportation, lifting and rigging, and moving, we always enjoy seeing the creative and unexpected ways our products can be used in order to solve a problem and create something truly unique.

Cargo nets used for OCR Nation’s challenging obstacle course race

Typically, our cargo nets are used to safely secure cargo being hauled in enclosed trailers, vans, and truckbeds. Well, six USCC cargo nets were recently used for an entertaining yet challenging obstacle course that was created by OCR Nation. They hung the nets vertically so people could climb on them in order to hit the bells!

cargo net at an obstacle course race — Photo Courtesy: OCR Nation

one of the runners on the truck bed cargo net — Photo Courtesy: OCR Nation

guy climbing on us cargo control's truck cargo net — Photo Courtesy: OCR Nation

Wire rope used as railings for the beautiful Sapphire Creek Winery & Gardens

As a place for social events, special occasions, dining experiences, and more, Sapphire Creek Winery & Gardens used our large diameter wire rope as a railing for observation areas. Not only is it innovative, but it also seems to fit in with the scenery. What a match made in heaven!

a customer using wire rope sling — Photo Courtesy: Sapphire Creek Winery & Gardens

wire rope cable — Photo Courtesy: Sapphire Creek Winery & Gardens

D Rings used to cover a pool from falling leaves and winter weather

With falling leaves and winter snow approaching, pool owners need to tightly cover their pools to protect them from debris. This customer wanted something secure and trustworthy to cover her pool, besides just using a pool cover. In the pictures below, you can see she fixed recessed pan D-rings to her deck in order to keep the cover tight and secure.

d ring shackle to secure a pool cover — Close up of the D Ring application

can also be called a towing d ring — A full shot of the customer’s pool cover

More Cargo Nets Used for Military Boot Camp Obstacle Race

Last but not least, a nonprofit company, called Soldier Rush, used a customized cargo net that created by our manufacturing team. The net was used for their obstacle course, as the contenders were supposed to climb over it as part of their challenge. Notice how the colors match the theme of their race!

the cargo net, also known as the bungee net, was created for Solider Rush — Photo Courtesy: Soldier Rush

a bungee cargo net — Photo Courtesy: Soldier Rush

We love seeing our products being used in unique applications! If you have any photos or videos that you would like to share with us, send them our way! Send us an email at CustomerService@USCargoControl.com, or share with us on the US Cargo Control Facebook page.

Have a question? Need a custom item? Don’t hesitate to call us a call at 866-444-9990!

Wire Rope Basics

Understand the differences among different types of wire rope so you can buy with confidence.

Differences in Size, Construction, Lay, Core, Grade, Finish

Understanding the basics of wire rope will help guide you on how to choose the right wire rope for your job. Application, required strength, and environmental conditions all play a factor in determining the type of wire rope that is best for you.

But when it comes to buying wire rope, the various numbers and abbreviations that describe the different types of wire rope can be confusing. EIPS wire rope, 6X19 IWRC wire rope, and lang lay wire rope are just some of the many variations available. But what does it all mean?

These wire rope basics will help you understand the differences among types of wire so you can buy with confidence.

1. Size

Displayed as inch or fractional inch measurements, the size indicates the diameter of the rope. Industry standards measure the rope at its widest point. A wide range of sizes are available from 1/8” wire rope to 2-1/2” wire rope. Thicker sized wire rope has a higher break strength. For example, our 3/8” 6X19 IWRC Galvanized Wire Rope has a 15,100 lb. break strength while our 1-1/2” 6X19 IWRC Galvanized Wire Rope has a 228,000 lb. break strength.

2. Construction

Wire rope is composed of individual wires that are twisted to form strands. The strands are then twisted to form a rope construction.

7/16" stainless steel wire rope: 6 x 19 construction — 7/16″ stainless steel wire rope: 6 x 19 construction

The numbers indicate its construction. For example: in 6X19 wire rope, as shown at left, the first number is the number of strands (6); the second number is how many wires make up one strand (19).

Numbers may also be followed by a letter combination such as FW or WS which indicates how the outside layer is constructed.

FW= filler wire (same sizes throughout)

WS= Warrington Seale (combination of large and small)

3. Lay

Refers to the direction the wires and strands are twisted during the construction of the rope.

Regular lay

When it comes to wire rope, regular lay is also referred to as right lay or ordinary lay. This indicates that the strands pass from left to right across the rope and the wires in the rope are laid in opposite direction to the lay of the strands. This type of construction is the most common and offers the widest range of applications for the rope.

Lang lay

This term indicates that the wires are twisted in the same direction as the strands. These ropes are generally more flexible and have increased wearing surface per wire than right lay ropes. Because the outside wires lie at an angle to the rope’s axis, internal stress is reduced making it more resistant to fatigue from bending. This type of rope is often used in construction, excavating, and mining applications.

4. Core

Refers to what makes up the center of the wire rope.

FC= fiber core

Fiber cores are made of vegetable (sisal, etc.) or synthetic (polypropylene, etc.) fiber and offer more elasticity.

IWRC= independent wire rope core

Independent wire rope cores offer more support to the outer strands and have a higher resistance to crushing and heat. Independent wire rope core also has less stretch and more strength.

5. Grade

Refers to the grade of steel used. Classifications include:

IPS= improved plowed steel.

EIPS = extra improved plowed steel (approximately 10% stronger than IPS).

EEIPS= extra extra improved plowed steel (approximately 10% stronger than the EIPS).

GIPS= galvanized improved plowed steel; galvanized wires add corrosion resistance.

DGEIP= drawn galvanized improved plow steel; galvanized for corrosion resistance. Drawn wires generally have a higher break load than GIPS.

6 x 37 EIPS IWRC 3/8" galvanized wire rope — 6 x 37 EIPS IWRC 3/8″ galvanized wire rope

6. Finish

This last tip on wire rope basics refers to the protective coating on the wire rope.

Bright

Made with uncoated wires manufactured from high carbon steel.

Galvanized

Provides extra corrosion resistance.

Stainless Steel

Highly resistant to corrosion and is commonly used in marine applications.

8 x 19 EIPS IWRC bright 3/4" wire rope — 3/4″ bright wire rope: 8 x 19 EIPS IWRC

Many of our customers use our wire rope and our wire rope clips to create wire rope assemblies. Check out of video blog on How to Safely Apply Wire Rope Clips to Wire Rope Assemblies to learn more.

How to Safely Apply Wire Rope Clips to Wire Rope Assemblies

This video shows you how to safely apply wire rope clips to wire rope assemblies. Depending on the size of your assembly, two to three wire rope clips are generally required. See below for a full transcript of the video.

For more information on the differences among wire rope clips and how to choose the correct one, see our How to Use Wire Rope Clips post.

Safety Notes: Always inspect wire rope for wear and abuse before applying wire rope clips. Apply wire rope clips over bare wire rope only. Use wire rope thimbles to protect the eye from being crushed and to prevent wear and abrasion on the rope. Never use a wire rope clip to directly connect two straight lengths of wire rope.

An important phrase to remember when applying a wire rope clip is “Never Saddle a Dead Horse”. This means you should never apply the saddle side of the clip over the dead end of the rope – the live end should always rest in the saddle. See above video for a demonstration.

Step 1.

Turn back the specified amount of rope from the thimble. Apply first clip one base width from the dead end of the rope. Tighten nuts evenly, alternating from one nut to the other until reaching the recommended torque.

Step 2.

If only two clips are required, apply the second clip as near the loop or thimble as possible. Remember, U-Bolt over dead end. Tighten nuts evenly, alternating until reaching the recommended torque.

When applying more than two clips, apply the second clip as near the loop or thimble as possible, turn nuts on second clip firmly, but do not tighten.

Step 3.

Space additional clips equally between the first two. Apply tension and then tighten the nuts on each clip evenly, alternating from one nut to the other until reaching recommended torque.

Purchase Wire Rope Clips and more from US Cargo Control

From wire rope, wire rope clips, and wire rope thimbles, to chain hoists and material handling equipment, US Cargo Control has your rigging and lifting equipment needs covered. Visit US Cargo Control.com or call 866-444-9990. With teams of dedicated consultants, we make sure you get what you want, when you need it.

Why use a wire rope thimble?

Anytime a wire rope is bent so it can be attached to a hanging point, there is a risk that the eye could be crushed. The addition of a wire rope thimble to the eye protects the rope by guiding it into a natural curve and creating an extra layer of support.

Adding this protection not only provides a measure of safety, it also lengthens the working life of the wire rope. Wire rope thimbles are available in a range of strengths and materials:

8094-wire-rope-thimble-zinc-plated-standard-duty-3-32-1-8-25-pack_1_375 — Standard/light duty zinc plated thimble

Standard/Light Duty. Our line of standard to light duty thimbles are zinc plated and available in multi-packs.

Heavy Duty. Heavy duty wire rope thimbles are also zinc plated like standard or light duty thimbles, but are hot dip galvanized, which creates a thicker coating than on standard/light duty models.

Type 304. A type 304 indication mean the thimble is manufactured in stainless steel which offers resistance to corrosion on the surface.

Regular/Light Duty 316. Standard/light duty thimbles are sold in multi-packs, but offer a 316 stainless steel material to make them resistant to high moisture or corrosive environments, particularly in marine applications.

Heavy Duty 316. A corrosion-resistant 316 stainless steel combines with heavy duty design, great for tough applications in marine environments.

5090-stainless-steel-thimbles-extra-heavy-duty-type-304-5-8-10-pack_1_640 — Heavy duty Type 304 stainless steel thimble

Heavy Duty 304. Stainless steel offers corrosion resistance, ideal for general heavy duty uses where the thimble will be exposed to outdoor elements.

Extra Heavy Duty 304. While not as corrosion-resistant as type 316 stainless steel, these extra heavy duty stainless steel wire rope thimbles offer the highest strength.

To shop from our full selection of wire rope thimbles, shackles, turnbuckles, and more, check out our Rigging Supplies & Rigging Hardware category.

Customer Photos: Wire Rope in Military Vehicle Restoration

We were happy to hear from Bob in New York, when he let us know he received his order of 6×37 wire rope and was impressed with the product. But we were really intrigued when he told us he was going to be installing the wire rope on his 1953 M37 Military Vehicle he was restoring.

Bob belongs to the Military Vehicle Preservation Association (MVPA). The non-profit group was founded in 1976, to provide an organization for military vehicle enthusiasts, preservationists, collectors, and historians who are interested in acquiring, restoring, preserving, safe operation, and public education of historic military transport vehicles. Bob’s local unit, Empire State West, buys and restores military vehicles for display at parades, car shows, and other events to honor and support our troops and veterans.

Bob is from a military family and has been involved in military vehicle restoration for more than 20 years. Here’s what he told us:

What is the most difficult aspect of the process?

To understand military vehicles, you have to keep in mind that different eras- WWII, Korea, Vietnam, etc.- all used different vehicles . If you want a WWII jeep or CCKW (Deuce), you can spend months tracking down a suitable vehicle, and then arranging transport. Parts are found online, EBay, at Military Collector shows, or Military Vehicle parts dealers.

How long has it taken you to restore this particular vehicle?

About two years, but I did not work on it every day. The hunt for parts is a big part of the fun. Military vehicles always require some type of maintenance, so there is always a lot to do.

Do you have plans to restore another vehicle soon?

My restorations are what are called “Motor Pool” vehicles, which are MV’s that would have been used by GIs in the field. My interest is Vietnam-era military vehicles, all the vehicles I have were of that era. I am currently putting the finishing touches on my M274 Mule. However, vehicles are never really done; you are always picking up items to add to your ride.

Tell us more about your local MVPA group.

The MVPA is a national organization and there are local clubs all over the country. Our local group, Empire State West, has about 30 members. Some members are veterans, some are not, but all have an interest in military vehicles. All the vehicles are owned and maintained by our members, we receive NO funding, so we try to attend events that are not too far from our core members (about 20-25 miles). Also MVs don’t have a lot of creature comfort- no heat or AC, and most are open vehicles. A rain day is a no show for us!

If you’re in the Western New York area, the Empire State West group will be at the Soldiers through the Ages event on Memorial Day Weekend. You can find additional events in other states on the MVPA website: MV Events.

Interested in joining an MVPA? To find one in your area, visit the Find an Affiliate page.

Coated Cable

US Cargo Control offers 7×19 coated cable in stainless steel and galvanized finishes. These coated cables are composed of 7 strands with 19 wires per strand, producing a cable that offers flexibility and superior resistance to corrosion. As a coated cable, the protection intensifies, adding an extra layer to fend off dirt, grit, moisture and other abrasions. Coated cable also seals in lubrication, reducing wear on accessories. To shop coated cable and accessories, visit USCargoControl.com.

Stainless Steel Aircraft Cable

Stainless steel aircraft cable from US Cargo Control comes in an aircraft cable type 304 or type 316 stainless steel finish. Type 304 stainless steel aircraft cable is excellent at resisting corrosion. The 7×19 construction of the cable provides flexibility and strength. Type 316 cable provides the highest level of protection against corrosion. Commonly referred to as marine grade stainless steel, it is ideal in high moisture environments. For additional protection, vinyl coated stainless steel aircraft cable is also available. To shop all of our wire rope and accessories, visit USCargoControl.com.

Stainless Cable

US Cargo Control offers a wide variety of stainless cable to fit your application. Stainless cable can be found in the 6×19, 6×37 and 7×19 classes. Stainless cable consists of wires, strands, and a core formed into a spiral pattern, which creates a strong, durable rope. It’s excellent for outdoor use or harsh conditions due to its ability to not rust or corrode. For more information on stainless cable, or to shop our wire rope and accessories, visit USCargoControl.com.

IWRC Wire Rope

US Cargo Control carries a wide variety of wire rope for your application. IWRC wire rope or independent wire rope core refers to the construction of the core of a wire rope. When the outer strands of wire are wrapped around a steel core, it reduces stretch and increases the strength of the wire rope. This also provides a higher resistance to crushing. IWRC wire rope comes in bright wire, galvanized and stainless steel finishes. For more information on IWRC wire rope, visit USCargoControl.com.

7×19 Wire Rope

7×19 wire rope from US Cargo Control is an excellent general purpose steel cable. Also referred to as aircraft cable, the construction includes 7 strands with 19 wires per strand in galvanized steel, creating a smaller diameter cable that is flexible and resistant to corrosion. With many sizes and styles available, US Cargo Control is ready to help you with your 7×19 wire rope needs.