Bow Shackles
WHAT IS A BOW SHACKLE?
Commonly referred to as anchor shackles, Bow-type shackles are often seen in all kinds of rigging and lifting applications. Named after their distinctive ‘bow’ shape, bow shackles have a u-shaped profile with a rounded portion that connects the two ends.
Bow shackles come in an extensive range of sizes, capacities, and pins.
KEY ASPECTS OF BOW SHACKLES
DESIGN
The bow shape allows these shackle types to have a larger inside width compared to d-shackles, making them more suitable for use with side slings and multiple connection points.
MATERIAL
Bow shackles are typically manufactured from high-strength materials such as alloy steel to ensure durability and strength under extremely heavy loads. Stainless steel bow shackles are also available that offer corrosion resistant properties enabling use in marine and other harsh outdoor environments.
LOAD CAPACITY
Bow shackles are rated for specific load capacity, which is often marked directly on the shackle for easy identification. It is crucial that this load rating is never exceeded.
PIN TYPES
Bow shackles come with various closures or ‘pin types.’ This removable pin secures the two ends of the shackle. These may be screw pins, bolt pins, or nut and cotter. Traditionally, screw pins are the easiest to remove, while bolt and cotter pins often provide additional security.
APPLICATIONS
Most commonly used alongside slings, hooks, and other lifting devices, bow anchor shackles are regularly found in construction and maritime environments for securing and connecting equipment.
WHAT’S THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN A BOW AND DEE SHACKLE?
Sometime referred to as ‘Omega Shackles,’ Bow Shackles are designed with a larger bow in comparison to a dee shackle, providing a bigger surface area for attachments such as slings and crane hooks to sit, that would otherwise not fit on a regular dee shackle.
