Installing U-Bolt Wire Rope Clips

Gator Supply Company
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Caution: Never use any rope clip to directly connect two straight lengths of wire rope.  Failure to apply wire rope clips as specified or failure to re-torque nuts periodically can result in load release failure of the assembly resulting in injury or death.


RIGHT WAY FOR MAXIMUM ROPE STRENGTH
When using U-bolt clips, extreme care must be exercised to make certain that they are attached correctly. The correct way to attach U-bolts is shown above; the "U" section is in contact with the rope's "dead end" and is clear of the thimble. The "live end", carrying the load, is gripped by the saddle of the clip.

REMEMBER: "Never saddle a dead horse."

Also, the tightening and retightening of the nuts must be accomplished as required.

 

CORRECT METHOD OF INSTALLING U-BOLT WIRE ROPE CLIPS

1. Turn back specified length of rope from thimble and apply first clip one saddle width from seized dead end. Tighten nuts evenly to specified torque.
Important: Seat "live end" of wire rope (load carrying part) in saddle and position U-bolt over "dead end".
2. Apply second clip close to the thimble without binding on it. Turn on nuts firmly but do not tighten yet to recommended torque.
3. Apply all other clips, equally spaced between first two clips.
4. Apply light tension and tighten all nuts evenly to specified torque.

5. Recheck and re-tighten nuts after initial load. This load should be at least equal to loads expected in general use. Wire rope will stretch slightly causing a reduction in diameter which will slacken the clips. Nuts must be checked at frequent intervals for tightness to assure efficiency of termination.

If the specified number of clips are applied according to these instructions, they will develop approximately 80% efficiency of right lay wire rope of classes 6 x 19, 6 x 36, 7 x 19, 8 x 19, 19 x 7 and cable laid.
Add at least one additional clip if thimble is not used or if clips are used on other wire ropes than those mentioned above. Check with wire rope manufacturer if in doubt. If more clips are used than specified, the amount of wire rope to be turned back has to be increased proportionately.