Which type of shackle is significantly stronger than a comparably sized carbon steel shackle?

Alloy steel shackles are engineered to provide superior strength compared to carbon steel shackles of the same size. The key reason for this increased strength lies in the composition and treatment of the alloy steel. By integrating elements such as nickel, chromium, or molybdenum into the steel composition, the resulting material gains enhanced hardness and tensile strength. This difference makes alloy steel shackles more resistant to deformation and failure under heavy loads.

While stainless steel is known for its corrosion resistance and may offer decent strength, it does not typically match the strength of alloy steel. Forged steel is stronger than regular carbon steel but not to the same extent as alloy steel. Plastic, on the other hand, lacks the load-bearing capacity required for heavy-duty applications and does not compare in strength to either carbon steel or alloy steel.

Therefore, the significant strength advantage of alloy steel shackles makes them a preferred choice in applications requiring high-load capacities and durability.