When someone says, “cable rigging products,” your mind may immediately think of what workers use to move heavy loads on construction sites. But this classification also includes the products DIYers use to make cable railings that spruce up their homes. If you want to take a deep dive into this product niche, this blog can help. Read on for a glossary of rigging and cable railing terms that will make you feel like an expert about the items people use in these arenas.
Rigging Terms
When construction or logging workers go to work, they use the items below to ensure they complete their work safely. Read on to learn about the role each item plays.
Anchor Shackles
Anchor shackles are vital in rigging setups, often used to connect chains, ropes, or slings. These U-shaped metal pieces have a pin or bolt across the opening, ensuring secure attachment points for heavy loads.
Lifting Hooks
Another essential item in a rigging operation is a lifting hook, which can attach lifting equipment to the load. These hooks come in various shapes and sizes and feature latches that ensure loads stay securely attached during lifting.
Slings
Use a sling when you connect your load to a lifting hook. These flexible devices often consist of nylon, polyester, and chains and distribute weight evenly for a safe lift.
Wire Choker
Another tool that creates a secure connection around a load is a rigging component known as a wire choker. Rigging workers can adjust the wire choker to fit tightly around the object, ensuring it remains firmly in place during movement.
Cable Railing Terms
After exploring various rigging terms, you can now learn about items needed to construct a cable railing. These may help if you ever decide to add one to your abode.
Buttonhead
When you secure your connections on your cable railing, you might use a fastener known as a button head. These components feature rounded, dome-like tops and a sleek finish that helps them fit nicely in modern railing applications.
Crimper
One important tool DIYers and professionals use for cable railings is a crimper, which secures cable ends by compressing fittings onto the wire. This ensures a tight, secure connection, preventing the cable from slipping.
Grommet
As your cables travel through the posts on your railing, protect them with grommets. These small rings or eyelets prevent the wire from fraying or getting damaged, extending the lifespan of your system.
Turnbuckle
Finally, you can turn to turnbuckles to tension the cables in your system. By rotating these connectors, you can tighten or loosen the wire to achieve the desired level of tautness.
Understanding these key terms will allow you to discuss rigging and cable railing projects more confidently. If there comes a time when you must take on one of these projects yourself, you can purchase cable rigging supplies from American Cable & Rigging Supply. We offer quality products, including screw pin anchor shackles, that will help you secure your load or cable railing.