Recently, many friends are consulted me about Twist Lock, as a practitioner for more than 20 years, today I will give you a specific introduction.
What is Container Chassis Twist Lock
Twist Lock is a common container securing device, mainly used to securely fasten containers to transportation platforms (e.g. container chassis, ships, railroad cars, etc.). Its basic working principle is very simple and efficient, mainly through the mechanical action of rotation to complete the locking and unlocking function.
Application
The twist locks on the container’s chassis are used to fix and secure the ISO containers to the chassis. Mostly there are 4 or 8 sets on one chassis and they sit on the corners of the trailer’s bed. There are two types of twist locks on the market–the retractable type and the non-retractable type. Panda uses the former type to facilitate the unloading process.
When working, the operator can twist the lock to the right or left, then retract the securing head below deck level. This will remove the obstacle on the platform and make the unloading smooth and easy. This is how Panda improves your working efficiency.
Though as a spare part, they are still made of high-tensile steel to prevent rust, torsion, and fracture. Before the shipment, Panda will fill them will grease, then you can use them as soon as you receive the container chassis.
Working Principle:
LOCKING PROCESS: When a container is placed on a transportation platform, the Twist Lock’s swivel pin is aligned with the locking slot on the bottom of the container. The operator or automated system ensures that the container will not move by rotating the lock so that the swivel pin is inserted into the locking slot. This rotation is usually accomplished by manual rotation, lever operation or mechanical actuation.
The pin rotates and snaps into the slot, allowing the container to be tightly attached to the chassis and the locking mechanism to be securely fastened.
UNLOCKING PROCESS: During unloading, the operator needs to reverse the rotation of the Twist Lock to release the pin from the locking slot. Typically, the unlocking action can be accomplished by pressing a button, rotating the lock, or other actions. After completing the unlocking, the container can be safely unloaded.
How Twist Lock Improves Transportation Security?
LOCKING EFFECTIVENESS: The Twist Lock is designed to ensure that containers are securely locked in place on chassis, ships or railroad cars. When the rotating pin of Twist Lock is precisely aligned with the locking holes on the bottom of the container, it holds the container firmly in place through the mechanical locking principle, preventing it from shifting or falling off during transportation.
Prevents sliding: Containers are subject to vibration and external forces during transportation. Twist Lock firmly combines the container with the transportation platform through the locking device, thus effectively preventing the container from sliding or tilting and ensuring the smoothness of the transportation process.
Enhanced Stability: Even at high speeds or during sharp turns, Twist Lock prevents containers from tilting or falling off, enhancing the stability and safety of transportation.
Adaptable to different sizes of containers: Some Twist Lock designs can be adjusted to fit different types and sizes of containers, ensuring that no matter what size the container is, it can be securely fastened, further improving safety.
How to secure a container to a chassis？
This is where the twist locks play their vital role.
The twist lock has a cone-shaped head that is inserted into the chassis corners. When the containers’ are down, the head can rotate 90° to lock the containers’ corners firmly. Some twist locks have levers or mechanisms in, while other types of twist locks need tools to achieve the function.
When securing the intermodal containers onto a chassis, we must ensure all the twist locks on the corners are firmly attached to the chassis first, then place the containers gently and precisely to secure safety.
How I maintain and check Twist Lock?
Here are a few things I check regularly to make sure the Twist Lock is in good condition:
- Visual Check 👀: I look at the Twist Lock to see if there are any cracks, rust, or damage on the body, rotating pin, or locking slots.
- Function Check 🔄: I rotate the Twist Lock to make sure it moves smoothly and locks and unlocks properly without any issues.
- Wear and Tear 🛠️: I check the rotating pin and locking slots to make sure they aren’t too worn down, cracked, or deformed.
- Lubrication 🧴: I make sure the rotating pin is well-lubricated so it moves easily and doesn’t wear out too quickly.
- Installation Check 🔒: I check if the Twist Lock is securely installed on the platform, making sure it’s not loose or uneven.
