Shackles: A Hercules Hardware How-To
Emma Street
Reaching out to the best black tech professionals and propelling them forward
Shackles are typically used as connection points for lifting equipment in many securing and rigging applications.
The type of shackle you use will depend on the lifting operation—Each has a slightly different design to suit them to various functions. There are three main types of shackles typically used for lifting applications:
- Dee
- Bow (commonly known as an anchor shackle)
- Screw Pin (commonly known as a grab)
- D-Shackle
Dee Shackle
Screw pin shackle with cotter/split pin
Dee shackles are mostly used for single-point lifting.
Bow Shackle
Bow Shackle
Bow Shackles are designed to be used to carry out multi-point lifts.
Screw Pin/Grab Shackle
Screw Pin or Grab Shackles are used when the shackle is required to pass through an opening, like a pipe or over an object. It is designed with a countersunk pin to facilitate this.
- Used where a shackle is removed on a regular basis
- When fitted, the pin must engage with the shackle body and tighten fully
- Screw pins can be moussed in place for long-term applications, or when there’s a risk of the pin backing out due to vibration, etc. Confirm with your supervisor to make sure this is accepted on your worksite.
Bolt Types: Nut, Bolt and Cotter Pins
- The bolt type pin (bolt, nut or cotter) is used when a load is permanent or semi-permanent.
- This requires the rigger to insert a split pin, which captivates the nut on the pin.
- If fitted correctly, the pin will rotate freely within the shackle body.
Round Pins
The round pin is commonly use for tie-down, suspension, towing and straight line lifting only. Don’t use round pins with multiple slings or where side loading may occur.
Pin Sizing
- A shackle will be sized from the diameter of the bow, not pin.
- A pin of a shackle is usually one size larger than the bow to achieve the strength of the bow. Consider this when you order a shackle for specific jobs, like a lifting lug.
Pin Replacement
Never replace a shackle’s pin with:
- A bolt
- A differently branded pin
- An incorrect pin size
Angular Loading
- Do not exceed included angle of 120° when rigging with shackles and multiple slings.
- Apply reductions in WLL when you use shackles loaded at angles
Specialty Shackles
Round and web sling shackles that are used with synthetic slings look slightly different.
- Wide body shackles have a larger D/d ratio for the sling, and improve the life and efficiency of the sling.
- ROV or remotely operated vehicle shackles are painted bright yellow or white so they are visible in dark waters, the pin is also easier to access with a ROV.
- Web sling shackles are wider and bow out in the middle
- Round sling shackles are narrow and sometimes have tiny valleys in the bow of the shackle so the strands are better supported.
How-To: Your Pre-Use Check
Before you use your shackle, you must inspect the following on all shackles:
- Markings are present, correct and legible including: manufacturer, working load limit (WLL), size, grade/material type
- The correct pin is fitted
- No visible signs of damage to the body or pin like nicks, gouges, deformations, stretch, bends, corrosion, etc.
- No evidence of misuse
In addition to your pre-use check, be sure to avoid swing loading and shock loading, secure sling legs not in use, never leave a load suspended—or walk under it.
How it’s Made
Lifting shackles are manufactured using the drop-forge process.
The drop forge process involves a steel rod hammered with a large ‘drop’ hammer, and a die is fitted to it. This die has the upper impression of a shackle cut into it and this shape imprints on the steel rod. A fixed die has the lower impression of the shackle.
The forged shackle is heated then treated—this ensures a uniform structure and gives the shackle it’s desired uniform thickness.
Blogs
For more on shackles, check out our blogs below:
- Talking Shackles – Know your D from your Bow with our informative shackle guide
- Learn what means to Never Saddle a Dead Horse
- Discover what it’s like to inspect a shackle with Hercules SLR Inspector Heather Young
- Learn more about synthetic slings, their construction and applications here
Hercules SLR is part of the Hercules Group of Companies which offers a unique portfolio of businesses nationally with locations from coast to coast. Our companies provide an extensive coverage of products and services that support the success of a wide range of business sectors across Canada including the energy, oil & gas, manufacturing, construction, aerospace, infrastructure, utilities, oil and gas, mining and marine industries.
Hercules Group of Companies is comprised of: Hercules SLR, Hercules Machining & Millwright Services, Spartan Industrial Marine, Stellar Industrial Sales and Wire Rope Atlantic.
We have the ability to provide any solution your business or project will need. Call us today for more information. 1-877-461-4876. Don’t forget to follow us on Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn for more news and upcoming events.
SHARE THIS:
- Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window)
- 13
- Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)
- 13
- The Google+ service has shut down. This sharing button is not displayed to your visitors and should be removed.
Related
Crane Equipment: cranes, chains & automobiles
January 6, 2019
In “Blog”
Crosby Guest Blog: Shackle Inspection & Care
February 8, 2019
In “Blog”
Talking Shackles - Know your Bow from your D
November 2, 2018
In “Blog”
POSTED IN:
TAGGED:
Lifting Equipment Rigging rigging hardware Securing Shackles Synthetic Slings web slings Wire Rope Slings
Post navigation
PREVIOUS ENTRY:
Happy New Year from Hercules SLR
NEXT ENTRY: