A Complete Guide for Safe Use of D-shackles

D-shackles can be used effectively for different rigging and load securing applications to manage heavy loads. It is available in either galvanized or stainless steel composition to be used in varied environment.

Lifting shackles are one of the major lifting devices that are extensively used to handle tough loads and different places that demands load securement. A D-shaped shackle design is narrower than an anchor shackle and consists of a threaded pin or pin close. The small loop in the design allows heavy loads to put primarily in line while side and racking loads gets twisted or bend into a D-shaped shackle.

The shackles come with different pin options where pin works best for any job by locking your shackle type. Several design options available with the shackle pins are screw pins, loose pins, round pins, bolt type pins and captive pins. Screw pin shackles are the easiest to connect and disconnect.

Similarly, captive pin shackles contain pin type that is perfect in marine applications and cannot be removed from shackle’s bow. Another type, called bolt type shackle, is engrossed with a rare combination of nut/bolt/cotter pin and is most popular for heavy-duty securing applications.

How to Use D-shackles Safely

• Storing and handling of lifting shackles must be appropriate.
• Proper inspection must be carried out before each use and prior placing them into storage.
• Correct pattern type of pin and shackle should be selected for every application.
• Pin needs to be completely tightened.
• It is necessary to inspect that the load must act through the shackle’s center line with spacers.
• It is not a good habit to replace pin with a bolt.
• Avoid to fit pins with moving parts as it can lose or unscrew them.

Discard Your D-shackle if Any of the Below Factor Persists

• If any part of the shackle is worn more than 10%, it is obvious that it is not safe to use as the specified load cannot be handled well.
• Excessive pitting or corrosion in a shackle decreases its strength and durability and raises stress on the device.
• In case, load bearing components are cracked or distorted, it is an alarming situation that shackle is not safe to use.
• Heat damage is also a deteriorating factor that can result in blue or straw discoloration of the material of shackle.
• Working with the devices from the reliable manufacturers with the genuine trademark is a performance indicator for a D-shackle that is visible on the outer layer of shackle.
• If the load pins are found bent, there are more chances of load dropping which can result in injuries to the people and property damage.
• Damaged threads can also result in failure of a shackle due to the incomplete engagement of pin with the shackle.

The D shackles are considered to be perfect at the times when a chain or wire rope is affixed to the anchor points or any other fittings. They possess stainless steel composition and not suited for load bearing applications.

Garret Henry is a skilled writer working at Bishop Lifting Services, a leading lifting equipment store, with a vast experience in articles and blog writing.