How to Choose the Best Rigging Equipment for Your Project?

The use of rigging hardware and lifting equipment is more common than you might think. Many industries such as construction, shipping, warehousing, and oil and gas rely on rigging equipment to lift heavy loads. These industries use a wide range of equipment such as hooks, shackles, wire ropes, and pulleys.

Successful and safe load handling depends largely on choosing the right rigging hardware. However, choosing the right equipment is easier said than done. You have to choose from thousands of different rigging products. Even experienced fitters will find this a daunting task.

If you need lifting and rigging equipment but aren't sure how to start your search, the following tips may help. Let's explore what to keep in mind when looking for rigging hardware.

One of the most important things you need to remember is the Workload Limit (WLL). It is also called rated capacity. The WLL is simply the maximum weight that a rigging tool can safely lift or carry. Equipment manufacturers use permanently fixed and legible markings to indicate this rated capacity on the equipment.

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) also recommends against using rigging hardware that is loaded beyond its rated capacity. Adding weight beyond the device's workload limit is a huge safety risk. It can also damage the load, causing project delays.

Find the total weight of the load to be assembled. Once you know this weight, you can choose the right equipment. It is usually best to use rigging equipment with a rated capacity higher than the load weight.

Each type of rigging equipment, whether wire rope or hook, has specific working load limits. Even synthetic slings have different load ratings depending on their material and size. So, check each piece of equipment carefully to make sure you can use it safely.

The next important factor is the load in question. The type, size, and shape of the load/object will play a key role in determining the type of rigging equipment you can use. Therefore, a comprehensive assessment of the load is not negotiable.

For example, synthetic slings are not recommended when lifting objects with sharp edges. Sharp edges can easily pass through the sling, increasing the safety risk. Instead, you're better off using wire rope slings.

On the other hand, if the load is light, you don't want to use a wire rope. They can damage the load. Here, synthetic slings are the right choice, as they are made of soft materials like polyester or nylon. They have a significantly reduced risk of scratches or dents. But they are strong enough to move expensive and delicate heavy equipment.

In addition to this, you also need to consider:

The center of gravity of the load. 

Space available for lift. 

Depending on these factors, you may have to use specific rigging tools. Given the stakes here, only qualified personnel are allowed to conduct these assessments.

You also need to consider the overall lifting environment. Temperature is one of the key environmental factors that you cannot ignore. It affects each type of rigging and lifting equipment differently.

Steel chain slings are probably the strongest. They can withstand temperatures up to 600℉. However, synthetic slings cannot withstand extremely high or low temperatures. They work best in a temperature range below 180℉ and above – 40℉. You need to consider the average temperature of the lifting environment to choose the most suitable rigging hardware.

Another factor to watch out for is humidity or water. In saltwater environments, the risk of corrosion is very high. You are better off using stainless steel rigging tools in such an environment, as they are corrosion-resistant. If you want to use rigging equipment in bad weather, you need to consult the equipment manufacturer. They can tell you which piece of equipment is best for your project.

Rigging tools are often subjected to harsh working conditions. This means that you need tools that can last a long time without compromising performance. So you can't compromise on quality when choosing hardware.

Buy high-quality rigging equipment whenever possible. Upfront costs may be higher. However, given the importance of safety when lifting heavy loads, quality equipment will be worth the money in the long run.

Another key factor is the testing and inspection of equipment. It will ensure that no part of the rigging hardware components will be misaligned. If you find a defective part, you can replace it before it's too late. However, only qualified personnel should inspect the equipment.

Finally, make sure to source your equipment from a trusted supplier. A reliable supplier will also help you choose the right rigging equipment. In fact, you should talk to your supplier whenever you are in doubt.

So look for a rigging hardware supplier with a proven track record. Even better if they have experience serving your industry. Also, work with local suppliers. Not only does it save on shipping costs, but it also ensures timely delivery, especially for last-minute orders. Do your own research to find a supplier that meets your budget and needs.

The success of your project depends on choosing the right type of lifting and rigging equipment. However, choosing the right device can be a daunting task given the sheer number of options. Hopefully, these five tips will make this task easier. If you want to customize or purchase rigging hardware, please contact us.

Terada Hardware is a professional custom rigging accessories manufacturer. We offer a full range of hardware. Our accessories are widely used in shading structures, tensile structures, fabric stretching, wire railings, railing systems, railing systems, marine, lifting, and other industries.