5 Most Important Rigging Hardware Used In Cranes

Whether you are building a bridge or extracting crude oil, cranes and other rigging hardware is indispensable. This equipment plays a crucial role in many industries, where lifting and moving heavy objects is a common task. Cranes are perhaps the most essential lifting equipment you need, especially when lifting and moving heavy loads.

Just how important are cranes?
In 2021, the global cranes market was worth $36.36 billion in 2021. And thanks to the ever-increasing demand for crane rigging equipment, this market will reach $49.64 billion in 2028 at a CAGR of 4.5% in the forecast period, 2021-2028.

However, it is impossible to use cranes without proper hardware. The quality and strength of rigging hardware directly impact the safety and success of your rigging operations. Crane hardware often refers to the various components used to secure, lift, and move objects, including slings, shackles, hooks, and chains.

Types of Crane Hardware or Rigging Hardware Used in Cranes

Crane hardware often consists of several components depending on the application. But there are a few components that you will need for every lift, small or big. Here are the five most important types of rigging hardware used in cranes.

1. Shackles

Shackles are essential rigging equipment used in cranes for lifting and securing loads. Usually, loads exceeding 6,000 lbs require shackles for a secure lift.

Shackles are typically U-shaped with a removable pin, allowing for easy attachment and detachment of loads. They come in various sizes (3/16″ to 2 ½”), materials (steel alloy), and load capacities (up to 11000 lbs). The most common shackles include screw pins, round pins, safety-type anchors, and chain shackles.

When selecting this rigging hardware, consider their working load limit, which refers to the maximum weight they can safely lift. Also, regularly inspect shackles should for wear and damage.

2. Wire Rope Slings

Wire rope slings are steel wires braided into strands and twisted into a rope, forming a flexible and durable sling. Wire rope slings come in various configurations, including single-leg, multi-leg, and endless slings, and can be customized to suit your specific lifting needs.

You will need wire rope slings to move large and heavy loads. But when selecting this crane hardware, consider their capacity and working load limit, as well as their construction and flexibility. Wire rope slings can last long. However, ensure proper care and maintenance, including regular inspections and cleaning, to prolong their lifespan.

3. Spreader Bars

Spreader bars serve as a critical piece of rigging equipment in cranes. As you can imagine, they consist of a long metal bar with multiple attachment points for wire rope slings or chains, usually on opposing ends. Spreader bars are either square or round tubes because the loads are placed axially.

Spreader bars for cranes come in various sizes and load capacities. The most popular are adjustable spreader bars, where you can adjust the length of the pipe. So, the biggest advantage of this rigging hardware is it allows you to use a single crane to lift loads from multiple locations.

You can use this rigging equipment to lift loads likely to get damaged from angled slings. They are very durable and, with proper maintenance, can last for years. The most common application of the spreader bars includes moving concrete slabs and pipes on construction sites.

4. Turnbuckles

Turnbuckles are used on cranes to adjust the tension and reduce slack in wire rope slings, cables, chains, or similar rigging equipment assemblies. They are commonly used in aviation, maritime transport, and construction industry.

Turnbuckles consist of two threaded eye bolts connected by a threaded metal rod, which you can adjust to increase or decrease tension in the rigging. They are classified based on the end-fittings, including jaw and jaw, eye and jaw, eye and eye, hook and hook, and hook and eye. Also, this rigging hardware comes in different materials, including steel, stainless steel, and aluminum. Be sure to consider the turnbuckle end-fittings depending on your rigging and lifting application.

This rigging equipment is designed to be durable. Regular inspections, cleaning, and lubrication can help prevent accidents and prolong the lifespan of turnbuckles. Also, make sure to inspect them before each use.

5. Synthetic Slings

Synthetic slings are rigging equipment constructed from synthetic fibers, usually polyester or nylon. They are probably the most versatile rigging hardware you will come across. You can easily conform them to irregular-shaped loads. Plus, they are ideal for securing easily damaged loads. They are also lightweight, easy to handle, and require low maintenance.

They are corrosion-resistant and can be customized to meet specific lifting needs. They are classified based on their shape, materials, and end-fittings. The three main types of synthetic slings used on cranes include - round slings, web slings, and endless slings. You can choose a sling that best fits your rigging hardware assembly.

Find a Trusted Crane Hardware Supplier

If you want to ensure safe rigging and lifting operations, you will need to get your hands on the best quality rigging equipment. That's where a clever, reliable, experienced hardware supplier comes in. Only they can ensure a steady and timely rigging hardware supply.

Here's what you should look for:

• Find a reputed supplier. Ask for recommendations from other industry professionals, or check online reviews and ratings.
• Make sure your rigging hardware supply is of high quality. So, be sure the supplier has proper certifications and adheres to industry standards.
• Ensure the supplier has a wide selection of rigging hardware to meet your specific needs. You don't your rigging hardware supply to run dry in the middle of a project.
• And, of course, the prices need to be as competitive as possible.

Go with the supplier who ticks all these boxes. They can keep your projects functional, safe, and profitable.

Get Your Rigging Hardware Supply in Line

The right rigging hardware helps you complete your lifting operations safely and efficiently. These include five pieces of equipment that you can miss. They are shackles, wire rope slings, spreader bars, turnbuckles, and synthetic slings. Knowing about these five rigging elements can help you plan safe lifting operations.

If you are looking for high-quality crane hardware, look no further than Holloway. We can ensure a steady rigging hardware supply that meets all your business needs. Call us today to learn more about our products, or browse our inventory now.