Which Eyebolt?

At present you'll find well over 200 varying types of lifting points that fall into the eyebolt category, including eyenuts and bownuts. Eyebolts screw into a solid structure to create a fixing position for varying lifting or lashing apparatus such as web slings to permit safe lifting of a load. Numerous kinds of eyebolts which aren't screwed into a structure but are permanently welded on, which provides the supreme secure lifting point. Amongst the varied varieties of eyebolts, there are some that are fixed, some can swivel, some swivel through 360 degrees with the addition of a load ring pivot point with 180 degree pivoting. Some eyebolts comprise a hook with safety latch to allow fixing of rings and slings etc. Eyebolts also come in various shapes, round, egg and star shaped, which suit different uses.
Probably by far the most adaptable eyebolt is the innovative star/hexagonal shape, this is since it not only rotates 360 degrees but additionally pivots from side to side, when fitted correctly with its special fitting tool, this allows this eyebolt to be loaded from every direction including side loading, unlike standard eyebolts. These star shaped lifting points are also obtainable in the eyenut form.
Several eyebolts are intended for in-line loading only, whilst others may be loaded in any direction, some with full and some with reduced working load limits. Most eyebolts are manufactured from high tensile, drop forged steel, making them exceptionally tough, standard types are usually finished in its self colour, electro-galvanised or hot dipped galvanised; you can find however some eyebolts which can be formed from stainless-steel which provides an appropriate fixing point for locations with high chlorine concentrations and sea water . At the premium end of the vast array of eyebolts are those with a special finish where the initial colour noticeably changes when the temperature increases, enabling the working load limit to be lowered at certain temperatures, which is of vital consequence.
Eyebolts, eyenuts and bownuts are used as an anchor point for lifting and lashing any object which can't be lifted by hand or by the use of a fork lift truck, they may be employed one at a time for a straight lift or in multiples, but they need to be symetrically positioned around the centre of gravity of the load. There's lots of factors to consider when deciding on the design of eyebolts, and should be selected to suit the undertaking it is intended for.
The weight of the load which is required to be lifted is of vital importance when determining which sort of eyebolt to use as the working load limit of the eyebolt will need to be over this limit for safety reasons. The angle of inclination of the slings used must be also considered, and based upon the dimensions and weight of the load, you must use an adequate amount of lifting points to ensure a safe and steady load when lifted, the structure to which the eyebolts are fixed must in addition have the ability to take the weight of the load, and that it can hold the eyebolt firmly in place.
The eyebolts should be placed in a way so that the sling system as well as the structure will permit a smooth and safe lifting procedure. The eyebolts should be chosen so that each sling system with hook or ring attachments as well as web slings can be used without the necessity for further manipulations, which are often not secure (i.e. bolting shackles.) The safe working load limits which are marked on the standard eyebolt is meant for an in-line pull , unless specified otherwise.
When using any version of eyebolt numerous basic procedures which must always be adopted, they must always be inspected prior to use to make sure that; all markings are readable; they are free from cracks, corrosion and gouges etc; the thread is undamaged; and they are screwed in tightly, and seated correctly; eyebolts which rotate should do so smoothly. Always check installation points are suitable. Single points should always be directly in line with the centre of gravity, multiple anchor points need to be arranged evenly / symmetrically about the centre of gravity and every point needs to be in exactly the same lifting plane.
If bolted (not welded) eyebolts are to be used where shock loading, twisting or vibrations might take place then it is possible and recommended to further secure the bolts by the use of an appropriate securing adhesive or use crown nuts with a key or counter nut etc. You must never cut, grind, or machine eyebolts, nor should they be heat treated.
It is compulsory that eyebolts are inspected and tested at frequent intervals, by a professional person; usually six monthly, this is because these products could be affected by wear, misuse and overloading etc. This should be done all the more regularly if the eyebolts are utilized in severe operating conditions.
In conclusion, it is imperative to always follow manufacturers usage and inspection instructions, failure to do so could have serious consequences. Should you be uncertain about the type of eyebolt which will suit your requirements best, then it's advisable to consult an experienced lifting equipment company, manufacturer or supplier, who are able to advise you.

Article Source: http://www.newsarticlessite.com

Lifting Gear Direct has been providing trade and industry with eyebolts, eyebolt for many years and also offer a full repair service. For more information please visit our web sites for more lifting equipment products. Or lifting gearproducts.

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