Part 2 of the 2-part article. Click here to read Part 1.

Risk Analysis: A Crucial Step for Integrated and Attachable Lifting Points

A comprehensive risk analysis is mandatory before conducting a lift, whether utilising integrated or attachable lifting points. This analysis should consider the following key aspects regarding lifting points:

• The lifting point or lifting eye should not have any sharp edges.
• The lift point must be suitable for the hooks/shackles/slings being used.
• Wall thicknesses and edge distances must be assessed to ensure the load can be transferred appropriately into the structure.
• The product-specific marking must be provided.

Lifting Point Selection Criteria

Choosing the appropriate lifting point is crucial for ensuring the safety and efficiency of any lifting operation. Here are some key factors to consider during the selection process:

• Mass and Centre of Gravity: The payload's mass and centre of gravity are the primary determinants. Lifting points with a Working Load Limit (WLL) equal to or exceeding the load weight must be selected. Additionally, the centre of gravity will influence the number and placement of lifting points required for balanced lifting.
• Number of Lifting Points and Lifting Configuration: The number of lifting points depends on the number of legs in the lifting sling and the desired lifting configuration (single-leg, multi-leg). The chosen configuration will impact the overall WLL of the lifting system.
• Deduction Factors: External factors like tilt angle and temperature fluctuations can affect the WLL of a lifting point. Deduction factors specific to the anticipated lifting scenario should be considered during selection.
• Lifting Point Type and WLL: Based on the load weight, lifting configuration, and deduction factors, a lifting point with an appropriate WLL and suitable type (boltable, weldable, rigid, swivel) must be chosen.

Verification and Documentation

The selected lifting point should possess a valid test certificate conforming to the relevant standards. This certification verifies that the manufacturer adheres to stringent testing protocols, including proof load application, destructive tensile tests, and crack detection procedures.

Design and Calculation Resources

Providing engineers access to 2D/3D CAD design documents and calculation programs can significantly enhance the lifting point selection process. These resources allow engineers to incorporate lifting points directly into technical drawings while considering factors impacting WLL calculations, such as:

• The number of lifting strands/legs.
• Potential angle variations during the lift.
• The symmetry or asymmetry of the lifted object.

Simplified Lifting Point Inspection with RFID Technology

Regular inspection and maintenance of lifting points are essential for safe operation. RUD offers lifting points equipped with RFID transponders. These transponders contain unique identification numbers that a dedicated reader can scan to transmit data to cloud-based software. This technology simplifies inspection recordkeeping and allows for convenient access to vital lifting point information.

Click here to see the RUD ACP-TURNADO, the world’s first intelligent lifting point with RFID.

Lifting Point Purchasing Checklist

To streamline the selection process, consider this checklist when purchasing lifting points:

• Is the lifting point type specified in the project plan?
• How many lifting points are needed per component?
• What is the required WLL for the lifting point?
• Are there any specific design dimensions to consider?
• What are the anticipated loading directions for the lifting point?
• Are there any necessary approvals or certifications required for the lifting point?

By following these guidelines and utilising available resources, you can ensure the selection of the most suitable lifting points for your specific lifting applications, promoting a safe and efficient operation. RUD Australia has a team of experienced, CPEng-qualified engineers who can assist you in selecting the correct lifting points for your application.

Article copyright to RUD Group. This information is accurate at the time of publication, and RUD Australia takes no responsibility for any errors, inadvertent or otherwise. 

This is a 2 part article.

Lifting points are fundamental elements within any lifting system. They are the crucial connection between lifting equipment (cranes, hoists) and the load itself, facilitating lifting, rotating, and manoeuvring operations. Common lifting point examples include eyebolts, swivel load rings and pad eyes, which connect to lifting chains using hooks, shackles, or other dedicated connectors. Modern lifting points are engineered to ensure safe load handling and to prevent damage throughout the lifting and transportation process.

Integrating Lifting Points at the Design Stage

With over 140 years of experience, RUD recognises that lifting points are often overlooked during the initial design phase. This can lead to complications and potential safety hazards later in the project. Incorporating lifting points should be prioritised from the outset to prevent such issues. This includes considering lifting requirements throughout the product lifecycle, from production and internal transportation to delivery, installation, assembly, and even potential relocation or decommissioning. Implementing lifting points at each stage minimises risk and promotes smooth operation. During the design phase, collaboration between the engineering, production, logistics, and supply chain management teams ensures proper lifting point integration.

Evolution of Lifting Points: From Simple Eye Bolts to Modern Safety Standards

Over time, lifting point design has evolved to comply with changing regulations and safety requirements. Four decades ago, DIN 580 eyebolts were the most prevalent lifting point option. However, a series of accidents in German underground operations, attributed to eyebolt breakage, necessitated stricter standards. These types of incidents regarding the misuse of collared eyebolts led to the development of modern lifting points, offering significantly higher safety margins against breakage in all directions. As a result, collared eyebolts such as DIN 580 and AS 2317.1 eyebolts are no longer the preferred choice for lifting points.

The Role of Lifting Points in Conjunction with Lifting Equipment

Lifting points play a vital role when working with lifting equipment like cranes, crane trucks, and material-handling machinery. Lifting chains that connect the machine to the load rely on these critical components. In Australia, specific standards for lifting (e.g. AS 4991, AS 3775.2, AS 3776) set the requirements for various lifting gear, prioritising operator safety. This focus on safety emphasises the importance of selecting the most suitable lifting gear for each application.

Types of Lifting Points: Boltable vs. Weldable, Rigid vs. Swivel

Lifting points are generally categorised into two primary types: boltable and weldable. Boltable options are the most common due to their versatility, allowing for easy assembly and disassembly as needed. They are available for standard thread sizes, offering maximum flexibility. Conversely, weldable lifting points are permanently affixed to the load. Their primary advantage is eliminating accidental unscrewing or over-tightening during load rotation or turning. Beyond these classifications, lifting points can also be rigid or swivelling. Rigid variants, such as collared eyebolts or pad eyes, lack adjustability in the pulling direction. Swivel lifting points, on the other hand, offer greater flexibility. They are commonly employed in multi-strand lifting applications, as they can automatically align themselves with the lifting force during load handling.

Click for our full range of bolt-on and weld-on lifting points.

Advantages of Lifting Points with Swivel and Rotation Capabilities

Lifting points specifically designed for rotating and turning applications offer additional benefits, translating into increased value. These points often integrate ball bearings, enabling a full Working Load Limit (WLL) under rotation. This makes them ideal for scenarios requiring load manipulation during lifting. The ball bearings significantly reduce sudden and unwanted movements during rotation, a crucial safety feature. Achieving smooth, impact-free rotation under load is only possible with these bearings.

Click here for an example of a ball-bearing lifting point - The RUD VWBG Load Ring.

Understanding Working Load Limit (WLL)

WLL is a critical industry term indicating the working load a lifting point can be subject to. Selecting appropriate lifting points necessitates a thorough understanding of their WLLs. Several factors influence a lifting point's WLL, including its attachment method, positioning, load symmetry, and the number of lift points used.

To be continued ...

Article copyright to RUD Group. This information is accurate at the time of publication, and RUD Australia takes no responsibility for any errors, inadvertent or otherwise. 

Introduction:

Germany, with 34 million tons of cement production, is Europe's leading cement producer*. When TBA, a renowned concrete supplier needed assistance to lift the roof of a concrete silo used for an infrastructure project, they turned to RUD.

The Challenge:

The project required lifting and placing a roof on top of a silo located near Unterkochen.

The project presented several challenges for the lifting operation:

• Logistics: The circular silo roof was 10 meters in diameter, 3 meters in height and weighed 16 tonnes. Lifting such an object requires careful planning.
• Inclement Weather: The project location was known for inclement weather conditions from strong crosswinds and average temperatures of 2°C.
• Limited Lifting Space: The lift was done using a crane with double hooks. This required precise planning of the lifting equipment to maintain safe load capacity within the permissible range while ensuring sufficient chain length.

The Solution:

Due to the heavy lift and the lifting configuration, RUD engineers proposed that a 13mm, 2 x 2-strand ICE 120 chain was ideal for the operation. To maintain the chain's working load limit (WLL) within safe parameters, it was calculated that a minimum length of 6.402 meters was required for low sling angles.

However, there were only 2 x 7-metre 2-strand chains and 2 x 4-metre chains in stock. Instead of postponing the project to another date, we decided to use IH (ICE-H) Connectors to extend the 4-metre chains.

The I-H Connectors are a fast, simple, and cost-effective solution for converting ICE chains into endless configurations. They are compact, easier to manage than conventional chain connectors, and flexible enough to fit the ICE chain.

Once the chains were extended to the necessary length, ICE Star Hooks were attached to the chain ends. Due to their innovative skeletal design, ICE Star Hooks can be used in temperatures from -60°C to 300°C and are up to 25% lighter than Grade 80 hooks of the same WLL.

This solution enabled a safe and secure lift of the silo roof. The roof was lifted to its final height of 35 meters above ground for the final assembly.

Products used in the project:

• ICE 120 2-strand 13mm chains
• ICE H-Connectors
• ICE ISAK Masterlinks
• ICE IMVK Shortening Claws
• ICE Star Hooks

Conclusion:

This project demonstrates how RUD's innovative lifting solutions, such as the flexible ICE Chains, can solve complex lifting challenges. RUD is the innovator and sets standards for lifting technologies through expertise and flexible solutions to ensure safe and successful operation even in challenging conditions.

* The European Cement Association. Key Facts & Figures: Main World Producers in 2018; The European Cement Association: Brussels, Belgium, 2020

Article copyright to RUD Ketten and RUD Australia. This information is accurate at the time of publication, and RUD Australia takes no responsibility for any errors, inadvertent or otherwise. Some pictures are for illustration only.

Part 2 of the 2-part article. Click here to read Part 1.

Identifying Chain Grades:

Chains are stamped with their grade for easy identification. Grades 80 and 100 use the "(H)" stamp followed by the number (e.g., H8 for Grade 80, H10 for Grade 100). However, Grade 120 employs the "(D)" stamp. It is important to point out here that unlike lifting chains, hoist chains cannot be used for lifting and are stamped with letters to prevent potentially dangerous mix-ups.

Safety Certifications and Testing:

Safety is paramount. Always opt for chains approved by relevant regulatory bodies (e.g., DGUV in Germany). Traceability through batch codes and RFID chips (offered by RUD) is also recommended. Regular inspections and electromagnetic crack tests (every three years) are essential for safety assurance.

Choosing the Right Lifting Chain:

Selecting the right chain hinges on several factors.

RUD will help you with the best chain suspension for lifting based on the following:

• Load type and weight
• Attachment points
• The presence of sharp edges or rough surfaces
• Required WLL
• Load's centre of gravity
• Operating temperature range
• Ease of operational safety checks

Conclusion:

By understanding the types, grades, and applications of lifting chains, you can ensure safe and efficient lifting operations. Remember to prioritise safety by adhering to regulations, conducting proper inspections, and selecting the most suitable chain for your specific needs.

Click here to download our Lifting Points and Lifting Means Catalogues.

Article copyright to RUD Australia. This information is accurate at the time of publication, and RUD Australia takes no responsibility for any errors, inadvertent or otherwise. Some pictures are for illustration only.

This is a 2 part article.

The age-old proverb, "A chain is only as strong as its weakest link," first used in Thomas Reid’s “Essays on the Intellectual Powers of Man” in 1786, perfectly encapsulates the critical role of lifting chains in material handling. This article delves into the world of lifting chains, exploring their types, grades, uses, and essential safety considerations.

What are Lifting Chains?

Lifting chains are crucial connectors between a load and a lifting hook. They are typically secured to a designated lifting point on the load, ensuring safe and secure lifting. Lifting chains form part of chain suspensions, which, along with the chains, include a master link, end components like hooks, connecting or shortening components and balancers if required.

Evolution of Lifting Chains:

Modern lifting chains have significantly improved compared to their predecessors. While past chains suffered from low material strength and cumbersome weight, today's chains offer high strength, durability, and cost-effectiveness, making them the preferred choice for lifting and lashing applications. They also weigh considerably less for the same WLL (Working Load Limit), which is beneficial when lifting heavy loads.

Types of Lifting Equipment:

While wire rope and synthetic slings offer alternative lifting options, they have limitations, particularly in terms of adjustability, susceptibility to sharp edges, and performance under extreme temperatures.

Lifting chains stand out with their:

• Adjustability: Length can be easily modified using additional components.
• Sharp-edge resistance: They exhibit greater resilience against damage from sharp edges.
• Temperature tolerance: They perform well across a wider range of temperatures.

Choosing the Right Chain Grade:

Several chain grades (Grade 80, 100, 120) exist, each with its own WLL (Working Load Limit). Selecting the appropriate grade is crucial for safety and efficiency.

Grade 80: This has been in existence since 1970. It is very popular in some parts of the world because it offers affordability. However, it has a lower breaking force and weight limitation.

Tip: RUD was the first chain manufacturer, approved for Grade 80 in 1972

Grade 100: It has been in existence for the last 30 years and is popularly used by many operators. It is a step up over Grade 80 and provides a balance between cost and performance.

Tip: RUD launched Grade 100 as VIP (Verwechslungsfrei in Pink) in 2006, and it is still a popular product used in many lifting applications. Click here for more details on the RUD VIP Grade 100.

Grade 120: Grade 120 is the latest and strongest grade, offering lighter weight and higher breaking force than Grade 80. Exclusive to a few manufacturers (including RUD).

Tip: Grade 120 offers a 30% reduction in weight than Grade 80 because it uses less material. It also possesses a 60% higher breaking force than a Grade 80 chain, and it is extremely robust, tough, and resilient to sharp and rough edges.

What this means is that an ICE Grade 120 Lifting or Lashing Chain - no matter the nominal thickness - can replace a Grade 80 chain of a next-higher nominal thickness.

Click here for more details on RUD ICE 120 Chains.

To be continued ...

Article copyright to RUD Australia. This information is accurate at the time of publication, and RUD Australia takes no responsibility for any errors, inadvertent or otherwise. Some pictures are for illustration only.