What Are Shackles: A Complete Guide

While most who use shackles work in construction, manufacturing, or towing, any Everett, WA, resident can benefit from them. They help maneuver items with ease, but what exactly are shackles? Below, Greenshields Industrial Supply delves into the different types and how to use them.

What Are Shackles?

Shackles, also known as D-links or gyves, are load-bearing equipment comprising cast or forged steel. While stainless steel is better for moist areas since it resists corrosion, forged alloy provides more strength, and cast carbon is the economical choice.

Shackles secure the load-lifting device (the sling or hook) to the item that needs moving. When rigging, close the pin to lift or pull the load and open the pin to discharge it. The shackle body (or crown) also comprises an eye (which holds the pin) and the pinhead (the pin part that pushes against the ear.)

Different Types of Shackles and Their Uses

Now that you know “What are shackles made of?” let’s discuss the types of shackles and “What are shackles used for?”

• Dee shackles have a D-shaped crown resembling traditional chain links or loops. These narrow shackles work for everyday towing and caravanning, where the load connects to the center of the shackle.
• Bow or Anchor shackles are O-shaped, providing more width for multiple loads attachments. Therefore, Bow shackles encourage excessive side loading, unlike Dee shackles, which would bend and twist.
• Bolt-type shackles include a bolt, nut, and pin, unlike traditional screw pin shackles, making the connection more secure and permanent for heavier loads.
• Quick-release shackles usually comprise leather straps that provide instant deployment for halyards and other equipment with one simple pull.
• Round Pin Shackles are perfect for tie-down, towing, and pulling since they use cotter pins without threads to secure loads, reducing rope twisting.

Proper Usage and Safety Guidelines

Before purchasing one of the common types of shackles, it's best to understand how to use them according to their make and model. For instance, while Dee shackles are popular for straight loads, bow shackles are best for side loading. Similarly, some are better for heavier and more permanent loads, while others can only handle lighter ones.

Once you find the right shackle for you, read the manufacturer’s specifications to better understand the weight-bearing capacity and loading requirements. You should also conduct thorough inspections before every lift to ensure correct attachment to the sling or hook and that the sling isn’t showing signs of wear. Otherwise, it can snap during use.

If the shackle size or type isn’t correct or has too much wear, put off the lift until you receive the appropriate equipment. These processes provide a safe environment and an effective rigging process.

Choose Greenshields for Your Shackle Needs Today!

What are shackles? If you have a job that needs doing but don’t know the first thing about the proper equipment, don’t conduct guesswork on rigging applications. Trust Greenshields Industrial Supply to explain the function of various shackles and the best type for you when you contact us!