Lifting heavy loads by hand in companies, construction sites, and workshops may be a challenge. Therefore, employers need to get lifting gear to help the employees with serious work. However, before you can purchase any lifting equipment, it is essential to understand the various types in the market.
There are two categories of lifting equipment: lifting appliances and lifting accessories. Lifting appliances move the load vertically while lifting accessories work between the load and the lifting device. Some of the equipment has adjustable features that make them ideal for domestic use. Here are different types of lifting gear.
The Chain Slings
Chain slings are flexible, strong, and temperature-resistant lifting gear that can support a wide range of loads. Chain sling comes in three classes: single-leg, double-leg, and multi-leg slings. Therefore, it is crucial to understand how each works.
First, as the name suggests, a single-leg sling has one leg supporting the load. Therefore, you have to apply an even weight distribution when using this lifting gear. A double leg sling has separate links of chain that support the lift. Some of this equipment is adjustable, while others have an endless double basket. A double leg sling can support more than 100,000 pounds weight.
Finally, the multi-leg sling has over three weight-supporting chains and is ideal for loads exceeding 180,000 pounds.
The Chain Slings
A lifting sling or wire rope sling connects the load and the lifting gear, and it has a variety of configurations to support various applications. The compositions include single and multi-leg part slings, grommets, multi-leg harnesses, and various fittings and attachments.
Lifting slings are ideal for use in the marine industry, shipyards, construction sites, and areas that deal with heavy weight lifting.
A Chain Block
A chain block is a mechanical device that lifts and lowers loads, objects, and equipment. There are two types: electric hoist and manual hoist. A chain block has lifting slings that support up to 5000kg of load. Therefore, it is ideal in manufacturing, production, electric power, construction, and mining industries.
The Eye Bolts
There are two categories of eye bolts. The heavy-duty eyebolt is ideal for an intensive weight-lifting environment, and smaller ones suitable for low-weight bearing applications.
In addition, eyebolts are corrosion-resistant, making them useful in the marine industry and outdoor weight lifting projects. Finally, several DIY activities require eyebolts daily.
Weight Lifting Shackles
A shackle is a u-shaped weight-bearing connecting device that works with a removable pin. The bonds work best with various rigging and load-securing applications to connect different lifting slings to an object or each other.
Just like lifting slings, shackles have several configurations to serve different purposes. Therefore, it would help to first consider your workload before purchasing shackles. For example, consider one that has a higher weight than the load.
Know Your Needs
If you plan to buy lifting gear for your firm, it is crucial to consider your needs. In addition, it is best to acquire equipment that can serve multiple purposes. Therefore, it would be good to research all the different types of lifting gear in the market to know their pros and cons. Another critical factor to consider is the skills to operate the equipment. Once you are sure that you have the necessary skills in your firm, go for the gear that suits you best.
