
Confused about lifting eyebolt standards? You’re in the right place!
In this blog, we’re breaking down what a lifting eyebolt is, as well as the governing standards for eyebolts used in rigging operations.
What is a rigging & lifting eyebolt?
A rigging lifting eyebolt is a vital piece of hardware in lifting and rigging operations. It is essentially a metal bolt with a circular loop, known as an “eye,” at one end. This loop serves as a secure anchor point for attaching lifting slings, chains, or other rigging components, making it an essential component in industrial lifting applications.
Key Features and Uses of Lifting Eyebolts:
- Function:
Lifting eyebolts provide a fixed attachment point to connect lifting equipment to a load, enabling hoisting, pulling, or securing tasks. - Design:
They feature a threaded shank that screws into a surface and an “eye” loop at the other end for attaching rigging hardware. - Applications:
Commonly used in hoisting machinery, pulling heavy objects, and securing loads for transport across a variety of industries. - Types:
Eyebolts come in different designs, such as welded or unwelded, and may include shoulders for added support in angular lifting scenarios. - Load Capacity:
Always ensure the eyebolt’s rated load capacity matches or exceeds the weight of the object being lifted. - Installation Tips:
Proper installation is critical. The eyebolt should be securely fastened into a compatible surface and correctly aligned to prevent accidents during lifting.
By understanding these key points, you can ensure the safe and effective use of lifting eyebolts in your operations.
History & standards
When ANSI first published the B18.15 standard on forged eyebolts in 1960, they stated as a disclaimer that “it would be impossible to develop an ANSI standard which would agree with even a small percentage of the products (eyebolts) being produced.” Regardless, B18.15 serves as ANSI’s attempt to come as close as possible to an average value for all forged eyebolts.
In addition to B18.15, there is one other standard that covers eyebolts – ASME B30.26.
ASME B30.26 (2015) “Hardware” covers identification, ductility, design factor, and proof load and temperature requirements for forged eyebolts and other rigging hardware.
ASME B18.15 “Forged Eyebolts” covers dimensions and capacities for threaded eye bolts intended primarily for lifting applications.
In case you’re wondering, OSHA does not provide regulations to cover eyebolt capacities. However, most companies will defer to ANSI/ASME standards in addition to any OSHA requirements that may exist anyway. Unfortunately, in the case of eyebolts, this can create confusion since there are two conflicting ANSI/ASME standards.
B18.15 has a capacity table with reductions for 0°, 30°, 60°, and 90° angular loads, as shown in the illustration below.
B30.26 does not list eyebolt capacities but does require angular load reductions, as demonstrated in the illustration above.
The issue is if we use the guidance from B18.15 for eyebolts used at 90°, their rated capacity will be significantly higher in value than what B30.26 recommends. So how do you know which standard to follow?
The safest way to determine eyebolt capacity is to ask the eyebolt manufacturer.
This should always be the first choice.
Be cautioned that manufacturer guidance trumps ASME’s recommended capacities. For example, if the manufacturer states that you cannot use their eyebolt at 60° and you decide to follow the ASME standards anyway, and the eyebolt fails, then you will be considered at fault for not following the manufacturer’s instructions.
The bottom line? It’s safe practice to always verify working load limits with the equipment manufacturer before use. However, if that information is not available for some reason, your next safest practice is to go with the capacity reductions listed in ASME B30.26. You can find a more in-depth explanation of this reasoning in Shackles, Swivel Hoist Rings and Eyebolts. What to Use and When.
For more information on this blog post, or details on our products & services, contact LGH by email or give us a call at 800-878-7305 today!
Source Citation
Klinke, Jerry. Rigging Handbook. 5th ed., ACRA Enterprises, Inc., 2016.
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