Winter presents a unique set of challenges for rigging operations, with cold temperatures, ice and snow affecting both equipment and working conditions. Ensuring safety during these months requires meticulous planning, understanding of the environment, and adherence to safety protocols.
Inspect Equipment Thoroughly
Before the first cold snap, do a thorough inspection of your rigging equipment. The changing temperatures can cause metal to deform or become brittle. Look for any cracks, deformities or signs of wear that would jeopardize the safety of your rigging operation. Replace suspect components before you get to work.
Prepare for Wind, Snow and Ice
Even if you’re used to mild winters, you can still encounter challenges from severe weather events, like the North Texas Blizzard of 2022.
High winds can catch suspended loads and make them difficult to control, while ice buildup on your equipment can create slip-and-fall hazards for your crew. Monitor weather forecasts closely, store equipment appropriately and have a plan to safely pause operations if the weather is too hazardous.
Account for Reduced Lifting Capabilities
Warm up equipment before operating to prevent malfunctions, check surfaces around cranes for slush and ice, cover your equipment with a weather-resistant tarp and store hardware and wire rope in climate-controlled areas.
Consult manufacturer guidelines and have a backup plan if you need to pause your operations. It is better to be overly prepared than not prepared enough.
Protect Your Crew
Verify your workers have cold-weather PPE, such as gloves, hats, insulated coveralls and waterproof boots. Provide warm areas for them to take breaks and rotate crews so that no one is working out in the cold for too long.
Without the proper protection, colds and illnesses are more likely to spread among your crew. Having too many people out sick can significantly delay your operations. Reduce this risk by establishing a winter action plan.
Demand More from Your Rigging This Winter
Don’t let the winter weather catch you off guard. Prep your rigging, protect your crew and get more done with professional rigging products from Southwest Wire Rope.
Even the sturdiest wire rope has a lifespan. However, just because old wire rope is no longer suitable for an intense rigging operation does not mean it cannot be reused.
Here are some creative ways to repurpose rope that still maximize safety.
Landscaping
Old wire rope is not dependable if it is being used to hoist heavy objects, but can still be used for many on-the-ground applications such as landscaping.
From hanging comparatively lighter objects such as planters or creating garden borders, wire rope is a cost-effective solution to building complex structures or erecting a fence. It also creates an eye-catching, utilitarian look in your yard that is still functional.
Marine Applications
Wire rope can be repurposed in aquatic environments in ways that cause less wear and tear. Examples include mooring lines, dock access ladders or even decorative elements on sailboats.
Remember that wire rope is more likely to corrode in a marine environment, so no matter how you decide to repurpose it, continue to lubricate and perform other corrosion prevention measures. Inspection services can help you identify signs of fatigue and whether it is time to swap your rope out entirely.
Home Goods
Wire rope can be repurposed for your home. It can be used for indoor wall hangings, such as rope bookshelves, plant hangers and baskets.
Wire rope is also used for outdoor decorations. String up a hammock, build a rope chair swing or incorporate it into a wind chime or bird feeder. If you have a fire pit or outdoor fireplace, transform sections of wire rope into grates to create sturdy, long-lasting surfaces.
Farm Equipment
Wire rope that is no longer good for industrial rigging operations can still be used on a farm. For example, sections of wire rope make excellent chains for towing heavy loads and equipment. It can also be fashioned into animal enclosures, fencing and pulley systems.
While farming equipment may not be as heavy as what you lifted on your rigging site, it can still put a lot of strain on your wire rope. Perform load testing to ensure your rope can handle the load before beginning your work.
Get More Out of Your Wire Rope
Wire rope has a lifespan beyond rigging operations. As long as you are following best safety practices, repurposing wire rope is a sustainable, cost-effective way to get the most out of your rigging equipment.
When it’s time to restock your wire rope, Southwest Wire Rope has you covered. We provide industry-leading rigging gear and on-site inspection services to keep your operation moving.
Have questions or need custom products? Reach out to us today.
Rigging inspections are crucial for keeping your job site safe and compliant. Regular inspections help to identify hazards and prevent accidents – but what happens on the day of the inspection, exactly?
Here is a comprehensive review of what you can expect during your rigging inspection.
Pre-Inspection Prep
It’s important to have maintenance records, equipment manuals and other relevant documents ready before the inspector arrives. Make sure they are complete, up to date and legible.
Additionally, remove any debris from your work site and place all of your equipment back in its proper position. An organized job site plays more of a role in safety than most realize, and creates less of a red flag for inspectors when they arrive.
Visual Inspection
Inspections typically begin with a visual assessment of your rigging equipment. The inspector will examine your crane, wire rope, slings, tags, cables, chains, hooks, shackles and other rigging components for signs of wear and tear.
Common examples of wear on rigging equipment include corrosion, kinks and abrasion on wire rope, cranes with improper fluid levels or tire pressure and visibly warped or deformed equipment. Debris, spills and errant equipment on your work site will also be noted, along with improperly-labeled tags.
Load Testing
Load testing is exactly what it sounds like, and is a crucial part of any rigging inspection. It involves subjecting the lifting equipment to a load to ensure it can handle that load safely.
These tests are performed through a variety of methods, including weights and hydraulic equipment. After planning and setup, the inspector will apply a predetermined load in increments while measuring data such as strain and deflection.
Inspectors will also observe how your equipment handles its maximum load capacity in what is known as a peak load test.
Final Verdict
The data your inspector gathers is analyzed to determine which of your equipment needs to be repaired or swapped out. The inspector may also determine the need for operator training to ensure a safe and compliant work site. Promptly address recommendations from inspection services and schedule follow-up inspections for continued safety.
Get Prepared With Southwest Wire Rope
By understanding what goes on during a rigging inspection, you can better prepare your site for the visit and ensure safer lifting operations. Southwest Wire Rope offers on-site field inspection services, load testing and more to ensure work-site safety.
The advice of a qualified expert can help you ace your rigging inspection with flying colors. Contact Southwest Wire Rope today to learn more.
Safety is critical during rigging operations. The right rigging hardware can mean the difference between success and failure on your work site. Here is some of the best rigging hardware for keeping your site safe and secure.
Shackles
When selecting shackles for a critical lift, consider load capacity, material and type. For example, if you work on a marine application, you may need a more corrosion-resistant material, such as stainless steel. For more dangerous lifts, look into safety shackles. It is always better to be too cautious than not cautious enough.
Spreader Bars
Sometimes you need custom rigging hardware to keep your job site safe, compliant and on track. One piece of hardware that is easy to customize is spreader bars. The length of these bars can be adjusted to get the best load distribution. Specialized connectors and fittings can also be added.
Round and Web Slings
If you need versatile lifting equipment, use both round and web slings. They are strong, durable, flexible and lightweight, which helps when you need to secure material around awkward angles. Round slings are more flexible and durable than web slings, and web slings are best for wider or finished pieces.
Hoists
Factors like the weight of the load and the angle of the lift are important to consider when choosing hoists for your operation. These can determine whether you go with a manual or powered hoist.
Plate Clamps
Plate clamps do double duty. They are used to both secure and lift loads with the help of a lifting machine. Most plate clamps are easy to use and feature a locking mechanism.
Eye Bolts
These are some of the most versatile pieces of rigging hardware. They can be used as a connection point for anchoring, pushing and pulling during your project. Make sure you have the best eye bolts for your operation – for example, galvanized eye bolts are great when you do not have to worry about moisture.
Sturdy Rigging Hardware for Your Job Site
Your rigging hardware has a significant impact on how smoothly your rigging project goes and how safe your workers are. There is no room for error on a critical lift, so choose the right hardware now to avoid problems later.
Southwest Wire Rope can help you find the right gear for a safe and secure rigging site. Whether you need stainless steel shackles, a manual hoist, powerful plate clamps or something else, we are here to help. Contact us today to get started.
Wire rope is valued in the rigging industry because of its incredible strength and flexibility. However, not all wire rope is the same – it comes in many different grades, and some grades are better suited to your project than others.
How do you know which wire rope grade you need? Let’s find out.
What Are Wire Rope Grades?
The two main parameters used to measure wire rope grades are tensile strength and breaking strength. Tensile strength is the measure of a wire rope’s ability to withstand pulling forces without breaking. Breaking strength measures the maximum load a wire rope can bear before failure.
Wire rope grades are often represented by numbers such as 6×19 or 8×25. The first number represents the number of strands in the wire rope, while the second number indicates the number of wires in each strand. These designations provide insight into the wire rope’s flexibility, strength and abrasion resistance. Generally, wire ropes with a higher number of strands and wires exhibit greater flexibility and resistance to wear.
How Do I Choose the Right Wire Rope Strength?
Choosing the right wire rope for your project depends on many factors, such as intended application and load requirements. Consider the following when making your decision:
Working Load – How much of a load will the wire rope be subject to during rigging operations? Consider both static and dynamic loads, as well as potential vibrations or shock loads.
Safety – Industry standards recommend applying a safety factor of 5:1, which means the wire rope’s breaking strength should be at least five times the anticipated working load.
Environmental Factors – Consider the temperature at your rigging site, as well as exposure to chemicals, corrosive substances and moisture levels. Choose ropes with proper coatings to withstand these conditions.
Seek Guidance – Rigging equipment and wire rope manufacturers are available to help when you need them. Ask for advice about wire rope grades, constructions and strengths for your rigging project – they will be happy to assist.
Find the Best Wire Rope for Your Project
Choosing the right strength wire rope is crucial for a safe and compliant rigging site, but it is not an intuitive decision for everyone.
Southwest Wire Rope is happy to clarify wire rope grades and offer guidance so you can make informed choices. We supply high-quality rigging equipment and offer testing and various on-site services to keep your work site safe and successful.
Contact us today to learn more and to optimize your wire rope’s performance.
While wire rope is known for its strength and durability, it is not indestructible. Core failure is one of the most common hazards, posing a potential safety hazard to those on your job site. Thankfully, there are ways to increase the lifespan of your rope and keep your project running smoothly. Keep reading to discover the best wire rope maintenance tips.
Store Wire Rope Properly
Safely and intentionally storing your wire rope extends its working life. The best way to do this is on a reel, which helps the rope maintain its shape and function by not getting tangled or kinked. Reels also make wire rope easier to store and transport.
When storing wire rope, be sure to keep it in a cool, dry, covered and ventilated area. Make sure the rope is stored at least several inches of the ground – water damage from flooding can corrode the rope and cause its lubricant to wear off.
Clean and Lubricate Rope Regularly
The importance of wire rope lubricants cannot be overstated. They reduce friction when individual wires move over each other, and have corrosion control properties. Make sure excess grease is removed after lubricating, as lack of proper cleaning may cause dirt and water to stick to the lubricated rope. Remove any buildup of mud, salt, rocks, dirt and other debris you notice as well.
Thoroughly Inspect Rope for Wear and Tear
OSHA and ASME have strict regulations when it comes to wire rope quality. Inspect your rope for any of the following: broken wires, corrosion, heat damage, bent hooks, kinks, a shrinking diameter, rust and permanent bends.
If the rope appears damaged or deviates from the norm in any way, pull it for inspection. It’s always better to be overly cautious than to risk injury or accident later. Establishing regular inspection services before and after each use are crucial for keeping your job site safe.
Make Sure the Rope is Strong Enough
When wire rope is not the correct size, type or cannot withstand the weight you are loading, it is a recipe for disaster. Veer on the side of caution and only lift loads you know the rope can support. Review the minimum and collective breaking strengths your rope can withhold to prevent snapping, fraying and breakages.
Wire Rope Inspection Services
Southwest Wire Rope supplies rope in various diameters and strengths and provides on-site spooling and inspection services to keep your job site safe, compliant and running smoothly.
Contact us today to schedule services or request custom lifting and mooring products. We look forward to working with you.
One of the best ways to boost performance on your rigging site is by customizing your wire rope and hardware. Not only do custom solutions help operations run smoothly and efficiently, they also keep workers safe and compliant. Does your job site have the custom equipment it needs to succeed?
Tailored Wire Rope
Quality custom wire rope can mean the difference between a successful project and a failed one. Rope can be customized through a number of factors, including strand configuration, core type, wire size and specialized coatings or fittings. Consider the needs of your project – how flexible, corrosion-resistant or able to withstand the elements does your rope need to be?
The environment you are working in can also affect how you customize your wire rope. For example, in marine applications, weight plays a critical role, which means that rope used in this environment should be incredibly durable and able to withstand underwater conditions. Galvanized aircraft cable (GAC) wire rope needs to be both strong and flexible for industrial lifting projects; factors such as diameter, length and the number of strands in the rope can affect this to varying degrees. If you are unsure about which wire rope would best suit your project, reach out to a rigging expert today.
Tailored Hardware
Like wire rope, rigging hardware that is not tailored to your project can make your site dangerous, inefficient and substantially delay projects. Hardware such as hooks, swivels, shackles and hoists can be engineered to handle load distribution, lifting heights, load capacities and environmental conditions to keep your site performing optimally.
Again, consider your project before customizing your rigging hardware. For work that requires precise alignment, a hook or swivel can provide the needed rotational freedom. If you have to lift an extremely heavy load to a great height, hoists can be customized with amplified safety features. The length of a spreader bar can be tailored for optimal load distribution, and attachment points can be modified by integrating specialized connectors or fittings, such as custom swivel hooks, eye bolts or lugs.
Custom Inspection and Maintenance
The last thing you want to do is reduce your equipment’s lifespan after putting in the effort to tailor it to your project. That’s why it’s so important to perform regular maintenance and inspections on custom wire rope and hardware, just as you would a standard piece of equipment.
Implement a comprehensive inspection schedule and always remember to follow manufacturer guidelines while maintaining your hardware and rope. When in doubt, reach out to your rigging equipment’s manufacturer – they know it better than anyone.
Straightforward Custom Rigging Solutions
You have a lot of work to do, which means high-performing, efficient, safe and reliable rigging equipment is a necessity for your job site. By requesting custom solutions, you can ensure all of these things, and more.
Southwest Wire Rope is here to get your project off the ground. We supply wire rope, fittings, slings, chains and more in a variety of strengths and sizes. Our on-site inspection services can help you identify which custom equipment would most benefit your site.
Contact us now to learn more about our professional rigging services.
Wire rope is an invention that we take for granted today, but its impact on America’s major industries can’t be overstated. Its textured history has led to a more innovative, productive and efficient country. Let’s explore how wire rope became such a behemoth here in our country.
The Origin of Rope
It is impossible to talk about wire rope in America without first understanding the rich, layered history of rope in early civilizations. The oldest ropes date back to approximately 12000 BC, and remnants of old rope have been found in Finland and Egypt, dating back 4000+ years.
Since its creation, rope has allowed us to pull and lift incredible loads that would otherwise be impossible. In 1586, the builder Frederico Fontana supervised the erection of an obelisk in Rome that took 900 men, 75 horses and many reeving systems to lift, but only through the power of rope.
Wire Rope’s Invention in Germany
In the early 19th century, the German mining official, Wilhelm Albert, developed the modern wire rope as we know it. His goal was to create a rope that was superior to hemp rope, and improve transportation within mines. When Albert’s rope was tested in 1834, it had six times the load capacity of hemp rope. Wire rope’s quality was further refined and its popularity quickly spread to Europe and North America.
Wire Rope in America
The most notable early use of wire rope in America came in 1841, when John A. Roebling used it to build suspension bridges, including the Brooklyn Bridge in 1869. Many mining and railroad companies sought to capitalize on Roebling’s success, and a number of railroad initiatives were spearheaded in 1830 and 40s Pennsylvania.
Deep shaft mining grew in popularity over the next several decades, and with it, the use of wire rope to hoist loads on inclined plane railways. The German engineering company Adolf Bleichert & Co. dominated globally in the 1870s, building aerial tramways that used wire rope and extending its reach to systems across America.
Wire rope also had a profound impact on San Francisco in the 1880s. Horses and steam engines struggled to pull trams up the city slopes, so an early version of the cable car that utilized wire rope was used instead.
Wire Rope Today
In 1983, Southwest Wire Rope’s “Gold Strand” wire rope was introduced, recognizable for its distinctive gold-colored strand. For over 40 years, Gold Strand wire rope has been synonymous with quality and innovation, and is recognized by professional rigging companies worldwide.
In coming years, wire rope will continue to aid industries across America as a powerful rigging tool in mining, manufacturing and construction. At Southwest Wire Rope, we pride ourselves on 50+ years as a quality wire rope provider.
Explore our products online or contact us to learn more.
Wire ropes have been an integral part of industries for decades, facilitating heavy lifting that allows us to thrive. The future of wire rope technology is unfolding with a promise of enhanced performance, durability and adaptability. Let’s explore the innovative landscape that awaits wire rope in the years to come.
Materials Evolution
The backbone of wire rope technology has always been its composition. Looking ahead, there will be a significant evolution in materials, with a focus on advanced alloys, high-strength composites and even experimental materials like carbon nanotubes. These innovations aim to deliver wire ropes with unparalleled strength and resilience, allowing crews across industries to accomplish more with less.
Improvements in Corrosion Resistance
Corrosion remains a persistent challenge for wire ropes, especially in maritime and harsh environmental conditions. With the application of nanotechnology in developing corrosion-resistant coatings, wire ropes are better able to withstand the harshest environments with their superior protective properties. These nanocomposite coatings will act as a shield, extending the longevity of wire ropes – saving work crews time and money.
Robotics in Inspection and Maintenance
Embracing the era of automation, wire rope technology is making use of robotics for inspection and maintenance tasks. These autonomous drones and robotic systems equipped with advanced sensors can navigate complex structures, inspect wire ropes in real-time and perform maintenance tasks, ensuring safety and efficiency in industries such as construction, mining and infrastructure.
Environmental Sustainability
In response to the global call for sustainable practices, the wire rope industry is embracing eco-friendly initiatives. The development of wire ropes from recycled materials, as well as exploration into biodegradable alternatives, showcases a commitment to minimizing the environmental impact of industrial operations.
This initiative is vitally important to a number of industries that work in environmentally sensitive industries such as mining and oil and gas. The need to work safely within these spaces has never been more important, and with the implementation of eco-friendly practices, efficiency and sustainability can walk hand in hand.
Your Wire Rope Partner into the Future
The journey ahead is exciting, and the future of wire ropes is set to be as resilient and adaptable as the industries they serve. Southwest Wire Rope is here to ensure that your crew has the most advanced rigging equipment at their disposal.
Gear up for your next project by reaching out to one of our rigging equipment specialists.
In marine applications, the importance of reliable rigging solutions cannot be overstated. Whether you’re sailing the high seas or managing a bustling marina, the right rigging equipment is crucial for safety, efficiency, and overall operational success. In this blog post, we’ll explore the best rigging solutions tailored for marine applications, emphasizing the significance of using top-notch marine rigging equipment.
Stainless Steel Rigging Components
For marine environments, where exposure to saltwater is inevitable, stainless steel stands out as the go-to material for rigging components. Its corrosion-resistant properties ensure longevity and minimal maintenance requirements.
Dyneema and Synthetic Ropes
In marine rigging, weight plays a significant role. Dyneema and other synthetic ropes offer an excellent strength-to-weight ratio, providing the necessary strength without adding unnecessary bulk. Synthetic ropes exhibit minimal stretch, contributing to better control and stability in various marine applications, from sailing to lifting operations.
Wire Rope and Cable Assemblies
Wire ropes and cable assemblies are versatile solutions in marine rigging. From securing loads to supporting mast structures, their adaptability makes them essential in a variety of applications. These robust materials are designed to withstand heavy loads and harsh marine conditions, making them ideal for tasks that demand durability and strength.
Swivels and Shackles
Swivels play a crucial role in allowing free movement and rotation of attached components. High-quality shackles complement swivels by providing secure connections, ensuring safety and reliability in marine rigging setups.
Rigging Hardware Inspection and Maintenance
The harsh marine environment can accelerate wear and tear on rigging equipment. Regular inspections are essential to identify signs of damage or fatigue and address them promptly.
Establishing a routine maintenance schedule, including lubrication and corrosion prevention measures, can significantly extend the lifespan of rigging equipment.
Customized Solutions for Specific Applications
Marine rigging requirements can vary widely based on the type of vessel or specific application. Opting for customized rigging solutions ensures that your equipment is precisely suited to meet the demands of your marine operations.
Your Source for Quality Marine Rigging Solutions
Choosing the best rigging solutions for marine applications involves a careful consideration of materials, design, and functionality. By prioritizing quality and investing in durable, corrosion-resistant equipment, you not only enhance the safety of your marine endeavors but also contribute to the overall efficiency and success of your operations. Southwest Wire Rope is your partner for all things rigging. From a wide range of wire rope to on-site inspection services, we’ve got you covered. Reach out today for your custom marine rigging solution.