What Are Lifting and Rigging?
Lifting and rigging can be an essential part of various industrial projects. It is the process of using mechanical advantage to maneuver objects such as heavy machinery, containers, and other loads that are difficult or impossible to move without specialized equipment. Using lifting & rigging equipment requires precise planning and execution to ensure safety for both personnel and the environment.
All rigging and machinery moving operations are highly regulated and need trained professionals to ensure everything goes smoothly.
Lifting & Rigging Equipment
Lifting & rigging equipment is used to move heavy loads safely. Types of lifting and rigging equipment types that you use can include jacks, dollies, slings, straps, shackles, wire rope clamps, spreaders, turnbuckles, and other specialized tools. Depending on the load being lifted or rigged, it may also be necessary to use a crane or other hoisting mechanism. Lifting & rigging equipment must be correctly used to safely move the load without causing damage, injury, or environmental problems. Consequently, safety is essential when it comes to using lifting & rigging equipment. Personnel should be trained and certified on properly using all equipment before they are used. When working with lifting & rigging equipment, it is also essential for industrial rigging transport services always to use the appropriate safety gear, such as gloves, eye protection, harnesses, and hard hats. Additionally, all rigging and lifting heavy equipment should be regularly inspected and maintained to ensure they are in the best possible condition.
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Shackles
Shackles are one of the most common pieces of lifting & rigging equipment. They help to secure items during hoisting and moving operations by attaching cables, chains, or ropes. Shackles come in various sizes and types, including straight pin shackles, screw pin shackles, and safety bolt shackles–all with varying load ratings. When using shackles in rigging and lifting heavy equipment, select the right shackle for the job and use proper techniques when connecting them. Make it a point to regularly inspect and maintain shackles to ensure they are not damaged or worn.
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Capstan Hoists
Capstan hoists are widely used in rigging applications and offer great control over the lifting process. They feature a motorized drum or spool that winds the rope around it as it moves up or down. By operating the capstan hoist manually with a lever, you can easily regulate how quickly and smoothly loads move while avoiding jerking. However, always use the appropriate shackles and connectors when using a capstan hoist for lifting and rigging oversize loads. This includes only using shackles with a load rating that can accommodate the weight of the lifted load. Additionally, ensure all shackles are correctly connected and checked for any signs of wear or damage before rigging and machinery moving work.
Pulling Rope
When industrial rigging transport services use a capstan hoist, they always use the specifically designed pulling rope for the application. This is because the diameter of the rope affects how much power and torque is applied to the load, which in turn affects its ability to be lifted or lowered safely. This is crucial when rigging oversize loads.
Different ropes can also be used depending on whether you lift or pull loads, including synthetic, natural fiber, and steel. What’s more, check the condition of any ropes before use, as fraying or wear can weaken the rope’s tensile strength.
Safety Harnesses
When lifting and rigging oversize loads, you must always use safety harnesses because they are designed to keep the user safe by helping them stay balanced and secure while lifting or moving heavy items. They provide a secure way of connecting the user to the load, allowing them to move without the danger of falling or dropping it. Choose a safety harness that is suited for the job being done.
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Double Braid Rope
The double-braid rope is a type of rope that is made with two strands of rope. It is used in rigging and lifting heavy equipment applications, providing more strength and flexibility than single-stranded ropes. Double braid ropes are designed to hold up under conditions regarding rigging oversize loads, making them ideal for lifting objects such as furniture or large equipment. They also provide increased safety, as the two strands of rope form a criss-cross pattern, making it more difficult for the rope to slip or come loose when rigging oversize loads.
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Rope Care
Proper care for the rope is essential when rigging and lifting heavy equipment. The rope must be inspected before and after each use to ensure no visible signs of wear or damage that could lead to failure. Additionally, the rope should not be exposed to direct sunlight for long periods, as this can cause the fibers to become brittle and weaken the rope’s strength. The rope should be stored in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Finally, knots in the rope must be carefully tied to ensure they will not loosen or slip during use.
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Rope Inspection
Inspecting the rope before and after each use is key to ensuring its longevity. Look for signs of wear, such as fraying, cuts, or other damage that could weaken the rope’s strength. Additionally, check for any knots in the rope that may have come loose during use, as this can make it more difficult for the rope to hold its strength. If any signs of wear or damage are found, the rope should be discarded and replaced with a new one to ensure the safety of anyone working with rigging and lifting heavy equipment.
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Inspection Log
Creating an inspection log for the rope is a great way to keep track of its condition and ensure it is always in good working order. The log should contain information such as the date of purchase, the rope’s length and diameter, the type of material used, any previous inspections that have been done, and any repairs or modifications made. Create an inspection log to record all rope inspections. Every time the rope is used, check for any signs of wear or damage and note down the results in the log. In addition, document any knots tied in the rope during use and whether they had to be adjusted or retightened afterward. This reduces any potential risks caused by weakened or damaged equipment identified immediately, and the necessary repairs can be made.
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Mechanical Advantage
When using a rope for lifting, industrial rigging transport services understand the principles of mechanical advantage. This technique allows you to increase the force exerted on an object by using multiple ropes in tandem. You can reduce the effort needed to lift even large weights by running a pulley system and attaching several ropes. Knowing how to use mechanical advantage when rigging and moving machinery moving helps you work more efficiently and safely.
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Snatch Blocks
Snatch blocks are movable pulley systems used to increase mechanical advantage. They come in two types: single and double. Single snatch blocks have one primary sheave, while double snatch blocks contain two. Both types can rotate around the rope, so the load is evenly distributed across multiple ropes. This prevents straining or breaking of the rope.
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Slings
Slings are used to secure an object in place, usually attached to a rope. There are two types of slings: single and multiple legs. Single-leg slings create an anchor point for the load, whereas multiple legs provide increased stability when lifting large objects. They should be inspected regularly for any signs of wear or damage that could lead to a severe accident.
FAQ
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How to ship industrial rigging?
Industrial rigging should be shipped in a suitable container to prevent damage from occurring during transit. It is essential to fasten items securely, so they do not move or become detached during transport. Additionally, wrap items individually and label them with their weight, size, and/or contents for easy identification upon delivery. Lastly, make developing rigging and machinery moving expertise a priority to ensure that it is always handled correctly and without incident.
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What is the difference between lifting and rigging equipment?
Lifting equipment is a device used to lift, lower and move heavy items. Examples include winches, hoists, and cranes. Rigging equipment, on the other hand, is used to secure or support suspended loads. This includes slings, shackles, and chains designed for specific rigging and machinery moving purposes and can be used in tandem with lifting.
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What are the three types of rigging?
The three types of rigging are temporary, permanent, and semi-permanent. Temporary rigging is used when a load needs to be moved quickly or repeatedly. Permanent rigging is designed for long-term use and must be inspected regularly. Semi-permanent rigging is installed as a permanent solution but can still be moved if necessary. When engaged in rigging and machinery moving operations, it is crucial to use the right type of rigging for the job. The wrong type may fail and lead to accidents or injuries.
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What are the two types of rigging?
The two types of rigging are static and dynamic. Static rigging is used to lift, lower, or stably move heavy loads. This rigging requires careful planning and an experienced professional to set it up properly. Dynamic rigging is used for rapid lifting and moving applications. It involves using ropes, slings, cables, or other mechanical means to move large and heavy objects with minimal effort quickly. Dynamic rigging is best used when speed and agility are of the utmost importance, as it requires a higher skill level than static rigging. No matter what rigging is used, safety must always be considered.
Do You Need Industrial Rigging Transport Services?
Heavy Equipment Shipper can help you if you need industrial rigging transport services. We specialize in rigging and lifting heavy equipment, such as cranes, forklifts, hoists, lifting slings, shackles, and more. Our team of experienced haulers is prepared to handle any rigging and machinery moving job, including rigging oversize loads. Contact us today at +1 866-411-1173 or fill out our online quote form for more information regarding our industrial rigging transport services.