barts
Member
A 3,000 lb car traveling at 70 mph is producing 491,810 ftlb of energy
It has that much kinetic energy with respect to stationary objects due to the engine adding it as the car accelerated.
Note that nylon straps can absorb large amounts of energy by stretching; this is why sailors on boats will use often use chain and heavy nylon rope as ground tackle; the nylon absorbs some of the shock of waves lifting the boat instead of heavy jarring impacts which can break things.
If I had to arrest a heavy falling weight, I'd much rather do that with a long nylon rope or strap than a chain.
There are no absolutes here; so long as the materials used are sufficiently strong, many approaches are suitable. Combing straps with chain or cable to prevent damage to paint and finish is common when securing vehicles on tow vehicles.
- Bart