Rigging Hand Signals
Rigging equipment can be dangerous, but with proper instruction and training, accidents can be avoided. Knowing basic rigging hand signals can help reduce stress on the machinery, and help extend its lifespan.
When purchasing rigging hardware, be sure to check its working load limit (WLL). It is also helpful to work with a local supplier.
Chain Shackles
Shackles are simple pieces of hardware that can make complicated rigging tasks much easier. There are many different types of shackles, and each has its own advantages and disadvantages in particular applications. The shape of a shackle’s body and the pin type both play a role in determining how it can be used.
Chain shackles, also known as Dee shackles, have straight-legged bodies that are optimized for bi-directional loads. They should never be side loaded, as this can place significant strain on the bolt-side of the shackle and cause it to fail prematurely. Bow shackles (also known as anchor shackles) have a rounded body that can take many directional loads without developing significant side load. This makes them ideal for connecting multiple sling legs to the same shackle or for attaching shackles to load rings.
Always inspect shackles for signs of wear or damage before use, and always select one with a higher working load limit than the maximum expected load. Remember that a shackle’s working load limit (WLL) is determined by its Rigging Hardware body section diameter, not its pin size, so always refer to manufacturers’ tables for safe working capacities.
Eye Bolts
There are some tools whose proper selection and use go beyond making your job faster and easier; they can actually affect workplace safety. Eye bolts are a key example. These fasteners are essential in rigging applications because they create strong, secure attachment points for slings and other rig hardware.
There are many different kinds of eye bolts available, each with its own specific set of features designed for a particular application. For instance, those that need to withstand angled forces must have a shoulder on the bolt’s head that helps maintain alignment under such loads. Those that must be used in hoist operations must adhere to load charts and be rated for such use.
When selecting eye bolts, verify that their rated capacity (WLL) exceeds the heaviest load you plan to lift. Then, make sure the threads of the bolt and its mating nut or hole match in size, diameter, and pitch. If you need to make adjustments, use washers as shims, when possible, to help align the bolt’s eye correctly. Finally, inspect your eye bolts regularly to look for nicks and gauges, heavy wear, and other signs of damage.
Steel Nuts
Stainless steel nuts are crucial components for a variety of industrial settings and applications. They have great strength and durability, allowing them to withstand harsh environments and heavy loads. They can be found in a number of industries including automotive, construction, and furniture manufacturing.
Different types of stainless steel nuts include lock nuts, stamped nuts, acorn nuts, and more. They all have their own unique characteristics that set them apart from other fasteners. For example, lock nuts feature an enlarged base that Rigging Hardware spans the bolt holes and provides a greater bearing stress to clamp force ratio. This design helps prevent vibrational loosening of the nut and avoids galling screw threads.
When selecting a stainless steel nut, it is important to consider factors such as load capacity, grade, and size. It is also important to consult with professionals and suppliers who can help you determine the best hardware for your application or project. Ensure that you select a nut with a working load limit (WLL) that matches or exceeds the WLL of your wire rope or chain. Regular inspections and lubrication are also essential for ensuring proper performance.
Clevis Rod Ends
The clevis rod end offers a more versatile solution for attaching a hook to a lever or bell crank. A U-shaped clevis with a base and holes for bolts or pins, clevis rod ends can accept shearing loads and are often used in industrial applications.
A clevis pin is usually stronger than a bolt, as it can bear lateral stress and shearing forces. Clevis pins are available in different shapes and sizes, so it’s important to choose the right one for your application.
When selecting a clevis rod end, consider the clevis number, finish, diameter of tap, thread direction, and grip. Also, if you’re using a galvanized clevis rod, make sure the pin is tapped oversize to match the threads of the hot-dip galvanized rod. Also, remember that the WLL listed for rigging hardware applies only when it’s properly used under its specified rating. Check for signs of stretching or deformation, as this can indicate overstressing. If you notice these signs, it’s a good idea to replace the rigging. Additionally, use corrosion-resistant coatings and anti-corrosion treatments to extend the lifespan of your rig.
Adjustable Yoke End Fasteners
Yoke end fasteners, also called clevis yoke ends or yoke clevises, are metal U-shaped fittings that allow you to connect levers, hooks, chain, and rope to rods and other threaded hardware. At Murphy Lift, you can choose from yoke end fasteners made of different materials, including stainless steel and carbon steel. Both are strong and durable, but stainless steel offers an extra level of protection against corrosion so you can use them in moist or humid environments.
Yoke ends are often used in conjunction with a cable or rod to lift objects. They’re also useful for creating mounting points. Without a mounting point, you could cause damage when you try to lift an object from the wrong place. Yoke ends minimize the risk of this by providing a mounting point that’s easy to install. These fasteners are available in a variety of sizes, and most include the clevis and clotter pin that you’ll need to connect them to a rod or cable. However, you can purchase these components separately from some stores. Yoke ends can be found online or in stores that specialize in rigging supplies.