In-line strainer with tension control mechanisms for use on high tensile wire

摘要

An in-line strainer for placement within a span of wire fence to apply tension thereto is provided. The in-line strainer includes a reel having a hollow central hub for receiving a torque limiting mechanism. The torque limiting mechanism includes a central axle and a spring mechanism. As the axle is manually rotated, the reel is also rotated through its engagement with the torque limiting mechanism until a target tension on the wire is reached. Once the target tension has been reached, the torque limiting mechanism disengages, allowing the axle to “slip” relative to the reel, preventing further rotation of the reel and, consequently, further tensioning of the wire. In addition, the in-line strainer includes a failure mechanism which ensures that, when the load threshold on the fence is exceeded, the in-line strainer will automatically release tension on the wire wound thereon in a predictable and safe manner.