How to choose a lifting hook: rated load and closure

A lifting hook is chosen by its rated load, the shape of the load and the environment. The rated load (WLL, the working load limit) in the collection ranges from 50 to 3,500 kg, and some items are offered in several capacities, such as 250, 500, 1,000 and 1,600 kg. For pipes and channels a hook with a gripping rope is best; for heavy loads a hook of suitable capacity; for damp or aggressive environments, stainless steel.

The types

• Hooks with rope: the hook has a gripping rope to wrap around the precast unit, for pipes and channels. There are slim stainless steel versions, such as the CSC Edilizia slim stainless steel hook with rope, and double-rope versions.
• Lifting hooks: to hang from a crane or hoist, like the CSC Edilizia 252 or the galvanised lifting hooks art. 176.
• Swivel hooks: the body rotates, so the load can turn without twisting the rope or chain.
• Joker hooks: the SpanSet Joker family covers 1 to 10 t.
• Load hooks, like the Butti load hook.

How to choose according to the job

Start from the weight of the load and how you attach it: a pipe is picked up differently from a precast unit with lifting eyes. Then check that the hook, rope and lifting equipment all have adequate rated load.

The features to look at

• Rated load (WLL): from 50 to 3,500 kg. Take the value that exceeds the load, not the one that is close to it. If the load is angled, the rated load depends on the angle. The WLL is the working load limit, quite different from the breaking load: do not confuse them.
• Material: S235JR steel, carbon steel, forged steel, AISI 316 stainless steel. Stainless steel is the choice for damp or aggressive environments.
• Treatment: the models appear both hot-dip galvanised and in stainless steel, with a different code (for example 389 and 389C).
• Gripping rope: diameter 6 or 8 mm and length from 600 to 800 mm in the models in the collection. It must bear the load just as the hook does.
• Weight: from under 1 kg to 10 kg; where the data sheet lists several capacities, the weight rises with the rated load.
• Standards: some data sheets cite EN 1677 (components for slings); check on each one which standard the model meets.

Common mistakes

• Looking at the rated load of the hook and forgetting that of the gripping rope or the ring.
• Attaching the load unevenly and lifting it suddenly.
• Continuing to use a hook that is deformed or cracked.
• Using a hook without a safety latch where the load can slip out.
• Confusing the working load with the breaking load.
• Standing under a suspended load.

Frequently asked questions

How do I check a hook before use?

Check the rated load, make sure the safety latch works and look for any deformation or cracks. If there are any, it must be discarded.

How do you lift a load safely?

You attach it so that it is stable and balanced, lift it a few centimetres to check its position and then proceed without jerks.

What does WLL mean on the data sheet?

It is the maximum load the hook can lift in normal use. The load in front of you must be below it, with the rope and other accessories able to bear at least the same value.

Galvanised or stainless steel?

Hot-dip galvanised is the standard version; stainless steel is for where the hook is often in a damp or aggressive environment.

Is the hook also suitable for towing?

It depends on the model: check on the data sheet which use it is intended for before using it.

The items are in the lifting and towing hooks collection: to choose the rated load and type, request a quote or advice from the AMES technicians.