A common problem with using wire rope is rotation. Comcoming this issue requires that rotation resistant wire ropes be employed. Standard cable can twist and turn when handling a load, and so special considerations must be made when constructing rotation resistant wire ropes. These ropes are Contra-helically laid, and they are designed to lessen the […]
Basic Properties of Wire Rope
Wire ropes come in different styles and materials to allow them to operate in various applications. Regardless of the characteristics desired for specific wire ropes, all types have the same fundamental properties. The basics of wire rope make them highly desirable in a wide range of industries. Wire rope is strong. Generally speaking, wire rope […]
Understanding Wire Rope Materials
Wire rope is a steel cord that is flexible and extremely strong. Typically, these types of cables are used for hoisting, anchoring heavy loads, towing, and running gondolas. One of the most critical parts of the rope is the core, but that does not mean that the outside material is not essential. When shopping for […]
Difference Between Shackle Types
Choosing the right rigging supplies for your applications can mean the difference between success and failure. For instance, shackles are manufactured to serve different functions, which is why they come in a variety of styles, sizes, fabrications, materials, and types. Considering the number of options for shackles on the market, it is no wonder why […]
Diagnostic Guide for Wire Rope Degradation
Taking care of rigging supplies is essential for the safety of employees and businesses. Problems with rigging supplies can create a bad name for a company, and so safety should be a high priority when operating. Training employees in understanding wire rope degradation can help them to spot issues more clearly and to address them […]
Wire Rope Inspections
The primary purpose of inspecting wire ropes is to ensure that they will not break while being used. Inspections allow for repairs and replacements. Consider replacing any wire rope that has: Variations in diameter Broken wire Deformed Strands Changes in normal appearance Replacing ropes when in doubt of their structural integrity is safe and smart. […]
Using Lifting Slings
Lifting slings are used in conjunction with lifting devices (hoist, crane, pulley) to safely and efficiently lift and move objects. Slings are commonly made of several materials, which include metal, rope, and webbing. These materials are combined with metal devices, such as shackles, links, hooks or rings. Slings are constructed in different ways to perform […]
Choosing Wire Rope
Wire rope is frequently used because of the many advantages it provides its users. Wire ropes are designed to meet specific functions while maintaining a lifespan that far exceeds fiber wound rope. The main benefit associated with wire braided rope is a high tensile strength. Tensile strengthen can be defined as the amount of force […]
OSHA Tips for Sling Safety
Nothing should be more critical to a business than safety. This is especially the case for companies in the material handling businesses. Using hoists, cranes, and rigging supplies can be dangerous if not used and maintained correctly. The United States Department of Labor, with OSHA, put out a report on sling safety that is intended […]
Important Words and Definitions
There is a lot of words and terms that are essential to know when working in the material handling business. Understanding the terminology being used will help you shop, operate, maintain, and repair systems. Below, we have compiled a small list of the critical terms that all material handlers should know. WLL (working load limit) […]