Types of Rigging Hardware
Rigging hardware helps support and move heavy loads. These pieces can be cast or forged, with each process using heated metal to shape it.
Eye bolts act as anchor points for looping cables in rigging applications. They include shoulder eye bolts used for angular connections, straight eye bolts for straight line applications, and screw eye bolts and U-bolts of various sizes to accommodate different load weights.
Eye Bolts
Eye bolts are one of the most common types of rigging hardware used for lifting and suspending machinery. Like sling hooks and shackles, they’re available in many different sizes and designs to accommodate a wide range of applications. Like other rigging equipment, eye bolts should be inspected regularly for signs of wear or damage. Failure to do so can increase the risk of eye bolt or shackle failure, leading to dangerous accidents and equipment damage.
The most commonly used type of eye bolt is the regular threaded eye bolt. It features a circular eye at one end and a threaded shank to allow secure attachment to a variety of materials. The shank can also be threaded into a pre-drilled or existing hole or nut for quick installation. When installing an eye bolt, it’s important to verify that the threads match those of the hole or nut – insufficient thread engagement can lead to instability and failure. It’s also important to check the eye bolt’s rated capacity or working load limit (WLL) and ensure that it is not exceeded during application.
When selecting an eye bolt, it’s crucial to choose based on its shoulder type. The shoulder is where the eye and shank converge, and it bears most of the pulling forces in rigging applications. Shoulder eye bolts are designed to withstand angular loading, while non-shoulder eye bolts should only be used in vertical applications.
Steel Nuts
Steel nuts are used in conjunction with eye bolts to hold a load. These nuts Rigging Hardware come in a variety of shapes and sizes depending on the weight, shape and specifications of the load. The type of nut that is chosen should also be based on the angle loading factor that will be experienced by the load.
Hex finish nuts are the standard nut used in most applications. They have a smooth, shiny appearance and are typically tapped slightly larger to allow for the insertion of a cotter pin. A heavy hex nut has a larger profile and grips the workpiece with greater force than a light hex nut. These are often used in applications where the nut is exposed to vibration. An all metal prevailing torque lock nut has a round collar that is segmented with opposite slots cut into it above each corner of the hex base. The prevailing torque causes the collar to expand and grip the workpiece, resisting loosening by shock or vibration.
Stainless steel nuts are designed to be resistant to high temperatures, pressure and corrosion. They are typically made from a combination of metals such as iron, chromium and nickel to increase their strength and durability. Some of these nuts are coated with zinc (also known as galvanized) or hot dipped in zinc to help protect them from harsh environments.
Pulleys & Blocks
Rigging blocks and pulleys play a critical role in managing working loads and facilitating rope and wire movement up and down trees. The hardware can help reduce reliance on manual strength and speed up rigging tasks. There are many different types of rigging blocks, each designed to serve a specific purpose. Some are better suited to handling dynamic forces, such as arborist blocks and impact blocks, while others excel in increasing mechanical advantage. QSD is proud to represent some of the best rigging block brands, including ISC and Harken.
The basic component of a rigging block is a grooved wheel mounted with an axle. A rope can wrap around the wheel and create friction, allowing it to transmit force and torque. This arrangement can be used alone or in conjunction with other components of a pulley system, which can include a movable pulley that allows redirection of both the direction of applied force and total workload.
When paired together, the two blocks are known as a block and tackle. The block with the fixed surface is called a standing block while the one attached to the load is referred to as the travelling block. The movable pulley is attached to the travelling block via a multi-looped line, which provides a purchase system that can be used to apply large amounts of force. The block and tackle also helps distribute the forces evenly across faces of the two blocks, reducing risk of deformation and damage.
Turnbuckles
Turnbuckles are an essential piece of rigging hardware used to adjust the tension of wire ropes and cables. They are usually made from galvanized or stainless steel and can feature a pipe casing to protect the internal Rigging Hardware threads. They can be purchased in a variety of styles, end fittings, and sizes depending on the application.
Whether you need to keep fence wires taut so livestock can’t escape or hold up a steel cell tower, turnbuckles help to create strong connections and maintain proper tension. They can be easily tightened by hand, screw driver, or wrench to increase or decrease the tension of the rig. It is important to understand the working load limit of your turnbuckle so that you know if it can safely handle the weight of the equipment and cargo that it will be carrying.
When selecting a turnbuckle, consider the type of end fittings you will be using and if the device will be permanent or temporary. The type of end fitting you choose will also influence the take up length of your rigging setup. A jaw end fitting consists of a jaw and bolt secured together with a pin or nut. It is used to connect to points that cannot be opened, such as an eye bolt. An eye end fitting consists of an open loop that can be connected to components like a shackle or quick link.