Daily Archives: July 15, 2015

So, what exactly is a plate lifting clamp? The solution to this question is simple, a plate clamp is a piece of apparatus which is intended specifically for lifting and handling sheet materials such as large sheets of steel for instance. You will discover differing kinds available, the most typical types are the vertical and horizontal plate clamps that lift the sheet materials in their respectively named position, universal hinged plate clamps can also be found which includes both of the above’s properties.

Every kind of plate lifting clamp is available in a range of designs, some are designed for thin sheets, some are extra heavy duty, some have adjustable jaws, are hinged, have high grip properties or have an added safety lock, some versions are referred to as non-marking as they should lift sheet steel without leaving any marks at all. Some have smooth jaws, some will have hardened steel jaws, some might have protecting rubber linings to reduce marks and some models will possess a roller bar to help with mark reduction. So there is a version for just about every situation.

We will now explore each main type more closely

A vertical plate lifting clamp is commonly used to move sheet materials in an upright, vertical position nevertheless some versions enable the sheet to be turned through 180 degrees. If you want to move large sheets that could yield easily then it is common practice to make use of 2 or more plate clamps at the same time in conjunction with a spreader beam ensuring regular spacing for stability. The vertical plate clamp consists of two jaws held in a rigid housing, one jaw is unchanging but the second jaw is moveable in order that the jaws can be adjusted and tightened until they fasten securely on the sheet material, the spring loaded cam action ensures the clamping strength which needs to be double the weight of the material being lifted. The clamp also needs to be capable of withstanding a static load of two times the safe working load limit with no lasting deformation and 3 times the safe working load limit before the load is released. It is also crucial that it’s not possible to accidentally release the load.

The Horizontal plate clamp

Plate clamps of the horizontal variety are almost always utilised in a minimum of two’s, occasionally more based on the size and also thickness of the sheet as drooping may easily occur if not supported in the approved manner. Because they are used in multiples, a spreader beam is usually used, but chain slings can also be used. shorter sheets could be lifted by means of 2 clamps, one on each chain sling leg, as it is lifted the slings legs exert a horizontal force; larger sheeting could use 4 clamps together with a 4 leg chain sling, however the forces could cause the material to bend and buckle since it is only supported around the edges.

Hinged or universal plate lifting clamps can permit long sheet materials to be handled, with hinged hook rings they can be used for handling plate at a variety of angles. It could actually lift plate from the horizontal position and put down in the vertical position or visa versa. The hinged hook ring ensures the necessary gripping pressure in every position, but the load capacity is reduced.

Most kinds of plate lifting clamps are incredibly service friendly due to the fact that they have got exchangeable parts, and repairs and servicing can usually be carried out promptly by a competent lifting gear business.
Our articles will provide useful information and answer the commonly asked questions; why, how and where particular lifting gear products are used.

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