Shackles - lifting devices used to connect lifting equipment and load

Shackles

According to the Machinery Directive 2006/42/EC and the supplementary Directive 98/37/EC, shackles, as well as eye hooks, rings, and eye bolts, are lifting slings and thus load-bearing devices used to form or utilize a sling. A shackle, also colloquially known as a "cow's mouth" or "shackle hook," is U-shaped with a bolt as a lockable loop. The bolt is often secured with a nut. They are usually made of steel or stainless steel. Shackles consist of two separate parts and serve as lifting slings. They connect the load to the lifting device, which is why they must be very robust, as heavy weights are moved by this small connecting piece. They can be quickly removed, saving considerable time during lifting operations. When moving heavy loads, the right lifting equipment and slings are crucial. Without robust slings, fast and trouble-free lifting would not be possible.

The European standard for shackles as lifting devices

Lifting and transporting heavy loads poses numerous risks in everyday operations, not only for loading personnel but also for the environment and road traffic. For this reason, standards and regulations have been established that precisely define which tools and aids may be used in logistics and how they may be used. The most important standard governing the use of these load securing aids is the European standard DIN EN 13889 "Forged shackles for general lifting purposes." This standard details the requirements that these shackles must meet regarding material and manufacturing quality, as well as the hazards posed by substandard products.

German standards

Shackles are generally distinguished by their design and dimensions. The German standard DIN 82101 applies to straight shackles and subdivides them into three different designs: Type A with an eye bolt, Type B with a slotted bolt, and Type C with a bolt, nut, and cotter pin. The German standard DIN 82016 applies to the curved shackle, which is further subdivided into two designs: Type A with a bolt screwed into the shackle eye and Type B with a bolt and nut. The curved shackle is also differentiated by its design, the material from which it is made, and its dimensions.

The safe and proper use of shackles

In addition to the proper production of these tools, the correct selection of materials, high manufacturing quality, and continuous inspection of the manufactured products, their proper use is crucial for operational safety. Therefore, well-trained and trustworthy personnel must be employed in lifting and load securing, who are familiar with and adhere to the standards, guidelines, and operating instructions for the products. Used shackles must be inspected by a qualified person at least every six months, with a visual inspection being carried out before each use. It is important to ensure that neither the bolt nor the shackle body is twisted, bent, or excessively worn, and that both components are free of nicks or cracks. Only original bolts should be used. Both internal and external threads must be undamaged. All markings and inscriptions must be clearly visible. During use, it is also essential to ensure that the bolts are screwed in correctly. The bolt collar and nut should be flush with the shackle eye, and the nut should be secured with the cotter pin. If threaded bolts are used, the thread must completely fill the threaded hole.

Sizes and materials

Shackles differ primarily in their design, nominal size, and material. These differences, in turn, determine the areas in which they may be used. For example, our high-strength versions, which are made of high-strength steel, hot-dip galvanized, and painted, can achieve high load capacities despite their smaller size and lighter weight. In our shop, you can even purchase high-strength versions with a working load limit (WLL) of up to 55,000 kilograms. Stainless steel versions are particularly suitable for outdoor use because they do not rust. Unlike metal shackles, rope shackles are made of synthetic fiber rope. Using a special splicing and knotting technique, versions can be produced that are up to 12 times stronger than steel at the same weight. These soft shackles are usually made of Dyneema, a polyethylene fiber. Swivel shackles consist of two offset components connected by a swivel joint. This type of shackle is needed when, for example, the load needs to be rotated during the lifting process.

Shackles in our shop

Our straight shackle hook (parallel shackle) with eye bolt is available with working load limits (WLL) from 1 to 55 tons. Both the shackle and the bolt are made of high-strength steel. Both components are also galvanically zinc-plated and painted. The working load limit and nominal size are permanently marked, preventing mix-ups in everyday logistics. These shackle hooks can be used in temperatures ranging from -20°C to +200°C, although it should be noted that the operating temperature has a significant impact on the working load capacity. The curved version, also known as an omega shackle, is available with working load capacities from 750 kilograms to 55 tons. The material and specifications are identical to the straight version. Both versions comply with the Machinery Directive 2006/42/EC as well as all European and German standards. They are also available with a through bolt, nut, and cotter pin upon request. Please contact our service hotline for exact dimensions. Purchase curved or straight versions, bolt shackles, snap shackles, or shackle hooks, depending on the application. For extremely heavy loads, there are particularly robust versions. And for outdoor use, stainless steel shackles are ideal, as they are rustproof and weatherproof.

Products for industry and logistics in this online shop

When lifting, choosing the right lifting equipment is crucial. Therefore, you should always select your lifting equipment and accessories carefully. Without high-quality accessories, accidents can quickly happen, potentially causing significant damage. In our online shop, you'll find many more products in the areas of load securing, lifting aids, and slings. Excellent quality is a given for us, and all our products are manufactured according to the relevant DIN standards. We offer lifting straps, round slings, and shackle hooks for all applications in logistics, transport, and industry. Our round slings have excellent elongation properties and meet all modern safety requirements. For securing your load, we also offer anti-slip mats, pads, and rollers, lashing and tensioning straps, lashing systems, securing nets, and tarpaulins. You'll also find equipment for fall protection and traffic control here. The entire world of logistics and load securing – order with confidence from us!

Best service for our customers: Fast delivery, convenient payment and expert advice.

We make online ordering convenient and easy. Simply select the right product from our wide range of load securing and logistics equipment, and we'll ship it to you within 2-3 business days. With us, you can always be confident in the quality. We don't offer inferior or cheap goods, but only highly professional products that meet all DIN standards, VDI guidelines, and safety requirements. Our products are also certified by leading testing institutes such as DEKRA, TÜV, and TUL-LOG. We offer all common and trusted payment methods. Pay conveniently by invoice, PayPal, prepayment, Amazon Payments, or instant bank transfer. Unsure which product is best for your needs? We're always available to answer your questions and provide free advice. Contact us via our contact form, email, or simply call our service hotline. Our qualified staff will be happy to assist you.

Best service for our customers: Fast delivery, convenient payment and expert advice.

We make online ordering convenient and easy. Simply select the right product from our wide range of load securing and logistics equipment, and we'll ship it to you within 2-3 business days. With us, you can always be confident in the quality. We don't offer inferior or cheap goods, but only highly professional products that meet all DIN standards, VDI guidelines, and safety requirements. Our products are also certified by leading testing institutes such as DEKRA, TÜV, and TUL-LOG. We offer all common and trusted payment methods. Pay conveniently by invoice, PayPal, prepayment, Amazon Payments, or instant bank transfer. Unsure which product is best for your needs? We're always available to answer your questions and provide free advice. Contact us via our contact form, email, or simply call our service hotline. Our qualified staff will be happy to assist you.