The Essence of Checking and Using Rigging Equipment Properly
February 20, 2023Cranes are crucial to the construction industry as they help carry heavy items to various points of a site. But to make sure that their operations can become successful, they must be accompanied by the right set of rigging equipment.
Rigging equipment pieces tools that can hold and distribute loads during crane operations. They serve as the bridge between the crane lifting components and the heavy loads, allowing the flawless movement of the latter around the construction site. The setup of rigging equipment pieces is often carried out by riggers, who are adept at selecting the right tools for the rigging process. They also handle the inspection and maintenance of the rigging components.
Primary Types of Rigging Hardware
To date, there are numerous types of rigging equipment and hardware that contractors can use during the lifting operations of heavy loads. Some of them are the following.
• Rigging Hook: A rigging hook utilises loop-shaped steel and a safety pin that allows a solid connection of the slings, chains, ropes, and other rigging equipment during crane operations. This rigging hardware can prevent heavy loads from slipping while they are being transported to their intended destinations.
• Sling: Sling is another rigging hardware that contractors can use. It is a lightweight tool that can be paired with wire ropes. The combination of these things allows the lifting of heavy loads around the project site without compromising balance and strength.
• Wire Rope: Wire rope is rigging hardware that can support the dimension and shape of the load whenever it is being lifted. It is normally mounted to the crane alongside shackles, swivels, and hooks. The strength of the wire rope often depends on its material, steel grade, wire finish, and rope diameter.
• Pulleys and Blocks: Pulleys and blocks are rigging hardware that can lift heavy loads without using too much force. The pulley would be wrapped with a rigging rope while an object is attached. As the load moves, the rope must be held by the block to keep it from falling. The block serves as the stabilising force of this rigging hardware.
Some more rigging equipment pieces operators can use include eye bolts, steel nuts, turnbuckles, spreader bars, and lifting beams.
Maintaining the Rigging Equipment
Maintaining the rigging hardware is vital to keep everyone safe. Without conducting any inspection and maintenance, the loads being suspended in the air might suddenly fall, which would only lead to casualties on-site. Failure to do these things may also lead to crane damages, generating more expenses for contractors.
When inspecting the rigging hardware and tools, riggers should check for bends, cracks, corrosion, and other signs of damage. Once issues have been spotted, they must be either serviced or replaced immediately.
To ensure the proper use of rigging equipment, riggers should make sure that they will be exposed to safe working temperatures. Their manufacturer’s specifications on the angle, load weight, centre of gravity, and others should also be followed to prevent overloading and other rigging problems. As for their maintenance, they should be stored in spaces free from moisture, heat, and dirt. They should also be free from sunlight and UV rays.
If you need help with crane and rigging operations, you can contact us at Allied Crane Hire Newcastle and Port Macquarie.
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