How to Measure Shackle Size Correctly

In lifting and rigging work, shackle are small components that play a crucial role. Errors in determining the size of shackles can have fatal consequences, ranging from equipment damage to workplace accidents. Therefore, understanding how to determine the correct size of shackle is important, especially for industry players who routinely perform lifting and load testing.

What is meant by shackle size?

Shackle size is not just a matter of “big or small.” In the world of rigging, shackle size refers to several technical parameters that determine the working load limit (WLL) and the suitability of the shackle for the lifting system. Typically, shackle size is expressed in inches or millimeters, which refers to the diameter of the pin or body of the shackle. Each size has a different maximum load limit and must be used according to its intended purpose.

Shackle Parts That Must Be Measured

To accurately determine the size of a shackle, there are several key points to consider:

1. Pin Diameter: The pin diameter is the most common reference for shackle size. The larger the pin diameter, the greater the lifting capacity.

2. Body Diameter (Bow or D): The shackle body also needs to be measured to ensure compatibility with the sling, wire rope, or chain used.

3. Inside Width: The inside width determines whether the shackle can be safely installed on the lifting equipment without causing excessive pressure.

4. Shackle Height or Length: This dimension is important to ensure that the shackle can work optimally without interfering with the lifting angle.

Measuring all of these parts helps to ensure that the shackle used is truly suitable for the work requirements.

Common Mistakes When Measuring Shackles

There are still many common mistakes that often occur in the field, including:

1. Only estimating the size of the shackle based on visual appearance
2. Not checking the WLL marking on the shackle body
3. Measuring the shackle without considering the manufacturer’s standards
4. Using a shackle that does not match the diameter of the sling
5. Ignoring the physical condition of the shackle (wear, cracks, or corrosion)

These mistakes can reduce work safety and increase the risk of failure when lifting loads. The correct shackle size ensures that the load is distributed evenly and does not exceed the design capacity. 

This is why the selection and measurement of shackles should not be done carelessly.

Professional & Trusted Shackle Rental

If you need certified, inspected, and ready-to-use shackle rental in Jakarta that require practicality and safety guarantees, Goutama Weight & Testing provides shackles with capacities of up to 150 tons for various rigging and load testing needs.

Contact Goutama Weight & Testing now for safe, standard-compliant shackle rental solutions supported by a team of experienced professionals.
📩sales-indo@goutama.biz‎ | sales-jakarta@goutama.biz
 📞0811-6932-011 | 0811-169-631