What Is a Tow Strap?
A tow strap is a type of strap primarily used to tow immobilized cars or trucks for vehicle recovery purposes.
They are mainly made of nylon or polyester materials. Unlike metal hooks, they do not have protrusions, which is a key feature. Originally, tow straps and hooks were essential safety equipment required during circuit racing. Today, they are also used in regular vehicles for both fashion and functionality. Rather than being used only during towing, they are kept installed at all times and are used for towing during emergencies. They typically have a tensile strength ranging from 2 tons to 3 tons, providing sufficient strength for vehicle recovery. Due to different product specifications for specific vehicle types, caution is required. Additionally, when using them on public roads, it is crucial to comply with regulations and ensure proper installation for safe driving. Similarly, for racing events, adherence to specific regulations for each competition is necessary. They are also known as tow straps or towing straps.
Applications of Tow Straps
Tow straps are primarily used as essential safety equipment in racing cars. This is because during racing events, vehicles can become immobilized for various reasons, requiring towing by rescue vehicles.
They are also used in regular cars, 4WDs, trucks, etc. For instance, when a vehicle gets stuck in mud or experiences a breakdown, having a tow strap installed can facilitate vehicle recovery.
Apart from functionality, tow straps are also used in regular cars for their racing car-inspired designs. They come in various colors and patterns. However, it is essential to ensure compliance with regulations on public roads and adhere to competition rules for racing events when selecting colors or shapes.
Principle of Tow Straps
Tow Hooks vs. Tow Straps
Traditional ring-shaped steel tow hooks protrude from the bumper, posing safety issues such as:
- Damaging other cars upon contact with the protruding tow hook
- In accidents, the tow hook entering the vehicle’s body causing damage
In severe cases, not only the bumper but also parts like radiators and frames can be damaged. These accidents can also occur with foldable tow hooks.
On the other hand, tow straps, being fabric-based, do not protrude metal parts, reducing potential damage upon contact.
Materials of Tow Straps
Tow straps are mainly made of nylon or polyester. Nylon 6 tow straps have elasticity and stretchability, with a stretch ratio of over 20%. This allows them to absorb shocks during towing, and they offer excellent durability and corrosion resistance.
Polyester tow straps have low stretchability of less than 10% and are also used in seat belts. They often excel in durability and strength compared to nylon, making them suitable for towing trucks and large vehicles.
Types of Tow Straps
Tow straps come in various types, with nylon and polyester materials, and some are reinforced for higher strength. Breaking strengths vary between products, ranging from 4000kg to 15000kg or more. They typically have a tensile strength of over 2500kg.
The loop length of straps attached to the vehicle is around 10-20cm, but they are sold in longer units ranging from 3m to 20m. The width is usually around 5cm to 10cm.
They come in various colors such as red, orange, blue, black, pink, camouflage, etc., but compliance with regulations on public roads and adherence to competition rules for racing events are crucial considerations.