Rigging equipment is an umbrella term covering all hardware that is used to lift or move heavy materials. As you can see, different types of rigging equipment are commonly used on construction sites, in manufacturing, or in marine applications.
Since rigging equipment is responsible for safely securing and moving extremely heavy loads, each piece of rigging hardware needs to be incredibly durable. All of the parts must also work together to create rigging equipment setups designed to secure loads of various shapes and sizes.
Elite Sales is a proud rigging equipment distributor that carries a wide variety of industrial hardware solutions. When it comes to finding the right rigging hardware, we know it can be overwhelming. There are lots of parts and pieces within rigging equipment that have special purposes.
Let’s break down all of the different types of rigging equipment pieces and what they are used for.
1. Wire Ropes and Chains
One of the key pieces to a rigging setup is the wire rope or chain that connects the load to the lifting machinery. These are designed to be incredibly durable and strong. This rigging hardware is available in varying sizes, lengths, and strengths depending on the application.
Wire ropes are made from steel strands that are woven together to create a flexible yet strong piece of equipment. Most wire ropes have an internal core, which is made from synthetic fibers or steel wires. This provides additional support so the rope does not get crushed or bent.
Wire ropes can be purchased in bright, galvanized, or stainless-steel finishes. The ropes are categorized based on the number of strands and number of wires within a strand, like this:
- 6X19
- 6X26
- 6X36
- 8X25
- 19X19
Industrial chains are designed for heavy-duty lifting and are available in a variety of grades that indicate strength. Grades range from 30 to 100 and get stronger with each grade increase. Different types of chains are designed for specific applications, such as proof coil for tie-downs and windlass for marine purposes.
Both wire ropes and chains are extremely strong, but wire ropes tend to have higher weight load limits. However, chains are more durable and can withstand more wear and tear.
2. Rigging Hooks
Hooks are the types of rigging equipment that connect the item being lifted to the chain or wire rope. There are various styles of hooks that are designed for specific points of connection.
1. Clevis Hook
Clevis hooks connect to a bracket or chain in a rigging equipment setup through a clevis pin. This is a U-shaped piece at the end of the hook with a pin or bolt threaded through the cross-holes. It has an open hook to connect to the load.
2. Eye Hook
An eye hook has a permanent connection point that is welded or fitted onto a sling. It also has an open hook on the end to connect to the load.
3. Swivel Hook
Swivel hooks provide flexibility as it provides a 360° rotation. This is not ideal for overhead lifting, but it can be used for other types of rigging purposes for securement.
4. S Hooks
S Hooks are commonly used as points of connection between two chain links. They are not intended for overhead lifting and are not rated for heavy-duty purposes.
5. Slip Hook
A slip hook has a latch that closes the hook opening. This can only be opened by pushing down, so it will hold the connection link in place.
Shackles
Shackles are used to connect links, especially for extremely heavy items. They are designed to connect slings, chains, lifting devices, and other items in rigging equipment. Again, there are various styles designed for specific applications.
3. Bolt Type Vs Screw Pin
Bolt-type shackles (also known as bow shackles) use a nut and bolt to hold the pin in place. These are used for side-loading or sling-leg connections.
As the name implies, screw pin shackles are secured through a pin that screws into the shackle. This makes it best for temporary securements as it is easier to un-do than bolt types.
4. Anchor Shackle Vs Chain Shackle
Anchor shackles are made for rigging equipment fittings like slings, hoists, ropes, and cables. They are highly durable and rated for overhead lifting purposes.
Chain shackles (also called D or U-shackles) are made for straight-line pulls or overhead lifts. This creates a secure connection that can be removed as needed.
5. Eyebolts and Steel Nuts
Eyebolts help to secure and anchor different types of rigging equipment applications. The end is screwed in and the eye-opening at the end can be connected to a link or hook. There are three styles of bolts: shoulder nut, shoulder-type machinery, and regular nut. These styles refer to the length between the screw and the eye-opening at the top.
Steel bolts are used to support and hold eye bolts in place.
6. Lifting Slings
Sometimes slings are used to wrap around items for better support during lifting. These come in a wide variety of sizes, shapes, and materials depending on the weight and size of the load.
Round or web slings are commonly made from synthetic materials like nylon. These are best for lifting items that may be scratched by materials like metal. This sling style can also fit around odd shapes.
Chain slings connect to a load with hooks on either end. The chain can be wrapped around the load and secured through the end hooks. This is ideal for extremely heavy items. Slings can also be made from wire ropes or wire mesh.
7. Pulleys and Blocks
To lift and move objects, these types of rigging equipment are often used with pulleys and blocks. Blocks swivel and have a rotating attachment point at the end for securement, which allows you to change the direction of the pulling force as needed. Snatch blocks can have either a hook or shackle at the end which will attach to chains, wire ropes, cables, or other rigging hardware pieces.
Contact a Reliable Rigging Equipment Supplier
When it comes to rigging equipment, each piece plays an important role. You must have all of the right rigging hardware and accessories to create an assembly that will safely hold and moves your load. This goes for all your projects, whether big or small. That’s why you need to rope in a reliable and experienced rigging equipment supplier. Moreover, you need to consider your hardware needs, application requirements, and even on-site conditions when buying rigging equipment. This simple step will help you make an informed decision. It will also allow your rigging equipment supplier to serve you better.
Are you looking for a trusted hardware supplier? If you need wire ropes, chains, hooks, or any other type of industrial hardware, make Elite Sales your primary rigging equipment supplier. Browse through our online catalog or contact our team today to place an order.