Snatch block rating

[Devonseano]

Hiya,

 

New user, great forum! This query doesn't seem to fit the equipment categories so thought I'd put it here:

 

I've just got a 5t Igland snatch block for use with a 3.5t winch, and I have a couple of questions about it if anyones got a minute:

 

The block has no WLL/SWL/rating marked on it at all, nothing but an Igland sticker. If the block isn't being used for lifting, only dragging, doesn't it need anything like this, and by the same argument does it not need a 6 month competent persons examination under LOLER? Also,

 

If the block is being used to double up it can double the pulling capacity of the winch, IE: 7t. Does this mean that the block would be under rated for this? When I was looking for a block most forestry ones were 3t/5t/8t with the 8t ones being quite weighty. Given that our winch is relatively light for forestry work it seems unlikely that we'd need an 8t - what does everyone else do?

 

Many thanks for your time.

 

Cheers, Devonseano.

[Paul Smith]

If its not used for lifting and only pulling then it won't need a Loler ticket as if it were to fail it would just stop pulling instead of fall. Remember if you bounce the line you double the force at the block.

[muldonach]

Hiya,

 

New user, great forum! This query doesn't seem to fit the equipment categories so thought I'd put it here:

 

I've just got a 5t Igland snatch block for use with a 3.5t winch, and I have a couple of questions about it if anyones got a minute:

 

The block has no WLL/SWL/rating marked on it at all, nothing but an Igland sticker. If the block isn't being used for lifting, only dragging, doesn't it need anything like this, and by the same argument does it not need a 6 month competent persons examination under LOLER? Also,

 

If the block is being used to double up it can double the pulling capacity of the winch, IE: 7t. Does this mean that the block would be under rated for this? When I was looking for a block most forestry ones were 3t/5t/8t with the 8t ones being quite weighty. Given that our winch is relatively light for forestry work it seems unlikely that we'd need an 8t - what does everyone else do?

 

Many thanks for your time.

 

Cheers, Devonseano.

 

If you are not and never lifing anything with it then it does not need to be inspected and certified as lifting equipment. 6 monthly inspection is for man-riding equipment as far as I understand it.

 

From a practical point of view there are safety implications in the use of a snatch block, so regular, recorded inspection is not that bad an idea.

 

A 5 ton block is good to hang a 5 ton weight on one side with the wire running back to the winch below - it is more than adequate for use with a 3.5ton winch.

 

Cheers

mac

[difflock]

I beg to differ, if used to double up the 3.5 tonne line pull, that is then 7 tonnes, which clearly exceeds the rated 5 tonne.

I would still do it though since there will be a Factor of Safety of at least 2, & possibly 2 twice over, designed in.

But then I am a sole private operator, with some uncommon sense.(apparently, from personal observations)

[muldonach]

Strictly speaking you are correct if the snatch block is used to double up the winch.

 

However the Factor of Safety on the block is at least 4 and the rated line pull of the winch relates to first layer only.

 

2 is normally the proof load factor - i.e. for routine testing the block is subjected to twice its marked SWL and then thoroughly examined

 

Crosby Catalog - Tackle Block Warning, Use & Maintenance Information.

 

gives guidance on the factors of multiplication for line pull and various angles, it does not relate to igland blocks but the advice is generic

 

I would have no qualms about using a 5t block with a 3.5t winch but again recommend regular, recorded inspection.

 

Cheers

mac

[Devonseano]

Thanks all for the advice, all v useful and I'll get it out in the woods.

 

Cheers!

[Johny Walker]

dont worry yuol know wen its @ its limit !!!!! duck