When carrying out rigging operations involving shackles, it is crucial to select the right type of shackle for your application. The right shackle ensures safe and efficient rigging operations, allowing you to complete your tasks without any unforeseen problems.

A shackle is a U-shaped or jawed connecting link used to connect lifting slings, wire ropes, chains and ropes, suitable for various rigging, lifting, pulling and hoisting applications.

The removable pin design makes it ideal for temporary lifting operations or for quick connection and disconnection.

Different types of shackles

Before we delve into the types, let's first identify the components of a shackle: the body and the pin. There are many different types, styles and sizes of shackles, which can make it difficult to choose the ideal shackle for your rigging job. The shape of the shackle body significantly affects its potential uses. Here, we'll describe the essential differences between the most common types of shackle.

Essentially, there are four types of shackle, with two types of shackle body and two types of shackle pin.

1. D-shackles versus Anchor shackles (or Bow shackles)

• Bow shackles/Anchor shacklesThese terms are often used synonymously. Anchor shackles or bow shackles have a larger rounded shape, providing a larger internal area, allowing them to support loads from different directions without suffering significant lateral stresses. This makes them suitable for multiple branch slings, connecting slings to loading eyes and accommodating wider straps.
• Chain shackles/D shacklesChain shackles, also known as D-shackles, get their name from their "D" shape and are often used to connect two components in a traction line. Bow or anchor shackles are more commonly used when several fittings are required, as lateral loads and torsional forces can deform or warp a D-shackle.

2. Shackle Pin Types: Shackles with Threaded Pin vs. Shackles with Threaded Pin and Cupilla

• Shackles with threaded pinThreaded pin shackles are ideal for quickly connecting or disconnecting two components, with the pin easy to insert and tighten. These shackles have a lower risk of the pin coming loose during lifting, but are not recommended for permanent or long-term installations.
• Shackles with Threaded Pin and CupillaAlso known as safety pin shackles, they employ a bolt/nut/cup combination, making them safer as they don't come loose during use. Shackles with a threaded pin and cup are versatile and can be used in a variety of applications, especially in lifting, where an ordinary pin or threaded pin can be used.

Anchor shackles with a threaded pin are used for static loads, lateral loads and multi-leg directions, while anchor shackles with a threaded pin and cupilla are suitable for applications involving movement or semi-permanent to long-term connections.

To find out more about the different types of shackles, visit our blog in hqlifting.