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What are Lifting Shackles Used For?

In basic terms, a shackle is a strong connecting device that can be opened and closed, thus installed and removed easily.

Lifting shackles are used in many different lifting applications and rigging tasks. Typically for connecting two pieces of other lifting gear. They are frequently used with lifting slings.    Whether to connect the two ends together or to connect one end or the sling to something else. They are also used to fit the sling to a suitable anchor point on a load. Or to a lifting hoist load hook, whether a manual hoist or an electric hoist.

Different types of Lifting Shackle

A lifting shackles consists of two key components, the body and the pin. The body comes in various shapes and styles, with the most popular being bow shackles and 'D' or Dee shackles. The pin also comes in various styles, commonly a standard screw pin or a safety bolt type.

Each style of shackle is suited to particular tasks, therefore a little research may be required in order to find the best one for your specific lifting task.

Basically a D shackles is used for simple, in-line vertical lifts only, whereas a bow shackle can be used for angles lifting tasks. When it comes to the pin type a screw pin is quick to install and remove, thus great when needed for multiple tasks. A safety pin shackle incorporates a bolt with a split pin or cotter pin. They are a little more tricky to install and remove, however they are perfect when it needs to remain in place for some time.

Find out more details for each type on the relevant product pages above.

Using a Shackle Safely

Always ensure you are using your shackle correctly, never lift on the pin.

Lifting Shackle Safety

Like all forms of lifting gear your shackles should be checked frequently and thoroughly inspected half yearly according to LOLER specifications. This is due to the fact that they are handling heavy loads and failure could cause injuries.

When checking over your shackle before each use you should look out for things that could impact its safety. Check for bent and/or stretched components, distorted pins, pins that do not screw in and engage securely (loose fitting). Ensure the pin's collar sits flush to the surface of the shackle body. Also look pout for nicks, gouges, cracks and corrosion. All of the above can have a detrimental effect on the safety of the shackle. So if you notice any of these issues, please do not use the shackle.

Things you should NEVER do to a shackle include replacing the pin, modify it in any way, try to repair it, weld it, heat it up or try to bend it. Most importantly, never overload it, stick well within the stated safe working load.