Ropes vs. Ratchet Assemblies
A newer option in the industry, ratchet assemblies are designed to provide tight tension. They feature a ratchet buckle sewn into one end of a strap with a loop sewn into the other end. Users can pull the ratchet buckle to tighten the strap around their load, then lock it by pulling on the release handle.
The ratchet strap can be fitted with different end fittings to accommodate specific cargo anchor points. For example, J-hooks easily grab the reinforced D-rings typically found on flatbed trailers, while flat hooks fit right into crossbar slots on container trucks. Chain hooks are also available, allowing the ratchet strap to be hooked onto cargo chains that are commonly used to secure heavy equipment transport loads.
For more efficient load stabilization, ratchet assembly tie-downs are equipped with swivel fittings that allow 270 degrees of rotation. This allows them to distribute force across a wider area, adapting to real-time shifts during transport without compromising ratchet mechanism integrity. A recent project securing a 12-ton CNC lathe showed how this technique can reduce lateral movement by 42%.
UHMWPE vs. Polyethylene
The materials used to make tent frames are becoming increasingly diverse and sophisticated. Two of the most popular are ultra high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) and linear low-density polyethylene (LLDPE). Both are highly durable engineering plastics that can replace traditional metal components for their light material quality, affordability, and ease of processing.
UHMWPE has extremely long chains of molecules, which give it its exceptional strength and wear resistance. The long family tent chains also transfer load more effectively by strengthening intermolecular bonds. It is a semi-crystalline thermoplastic that can be processed through compression molding, sintering, ram extrusion, and gel spinning to yield sheet, rod, and strip form.
It is able to withstand very high temperatures, which makes it ideal for use in industrial applications like hydraulic seals and bearings. It can also be recycled for reuse, reducing waste and its environmental impact. It is also a less expensive alternative to aluminum for lightweight camp structures that need a lot of structural support. It is also being incorporated into the suspension lines of sport parachutes, supplanting Dacron. The lines are stronger and more resistant to abrasion, but they are not dimensionally stable when heated, which can cause problems in the canopy opening process. For this reason, Dacron is still being used in student and tandem systems.
Tents with Internal Frames vs. Tents with Guy Lines
The choice between an internal or external frame comes down to personal preference and how you plan on using your tent. If you are planning on a lot of hiking or camping in remote trail heads where access is difficult with your truck, an internal frame is the way to go as it packs down much more compactly and requires less space to transport.
Regardless of which style you choose, both will require guy lines to anchor the tent and keep it installed in harsh weather conditions or strong winds. These guy line tie downs either use rope or ratchet assemblies to create tension that holds the tent in place.
Ropes are the traditional guy line option and still the most common. They attach to pole or frame fitting locations and then connected to an anchor like stakes, rocks, or trees for maximum stability. A variety of different types of rope tie downs are available depending on the tent style and installer.
