1) Iron chains – Some are steel chains. This type of chain is widely used and is the most common and classic. Its advantages and disadvantages are obvious: it's inexpensive and durable. Disadvantages include high noise levels, difficulty in installation and disassembly, and its weight. Most importantly, it causes significant tire wear. Because the chain, besides being secured to the tire on both sides by steel wires, moves freely back and forth on the tire surface. During anti-skid operation, the movement between the chain, the ground, and the tire causes considerable damage; some describe it as scraping the tire like a file. These chains come in simple trapezoidal and diamond shapes. The former is mostly used for trucks, while the latter for cars. Diamond-shaped chains are more effective than trapezoidal chains because they have more fixing points, resulting in less tire wear.
2) Rubber chains – This is a chemical mixture of PVC, PP, and PT, and is a relatively modern vehicle anti-skid device developed recently. 1) **Snow Chains:** These chains, when opened, resemble a scarf with several diamond patterns in the center and numerous steel studs. Installation is simple: lay the snow chains flat on the ground, slowly drive the car onto them, and then secure them to the drive wheels.
2) Rubber Chains – These chains are similar in shape to rubber chains, but use high-quality rubber with strong tensile strength. They also incorporate tensile-resistant nylon threads within the rubber. Similar to tire manufacturing, the nylon threads provide tensile strength and reinforcement, while the steel studs on the rubber provide anti-slip properties. Although similar in appearance to rubber chains, their overall thickness and mesh are significantly greater.
3) Steel Wire Rope Snow Chains –These are snow chains that have only been sold in China in the last 1-2 years. Their advantages include no need for a jack, quick installation in three minutes, a lifespan three times that of other snow chains, and the use of manganese alloy. They are rationally designed and suitable for high, medium, and low-end sedans and SUVs.