When it comes to lifting & rigging the equipment that you choose is important. Our full line of lifting & rigging equipment offers the solutions you need no matter what the job requires. From blocks, capstan hoists, and haul systems to pulling rope, shackles, and slings we’ve got you covered no matter the situation.
Shackles are a key component of any lifting and rigging setup. Having the right shackles can be the difference between a job running smoothly and having a whole range of different problems. GME Supply is here to make sure you have the right gear to get your job done safely and effectively. Our selection of shackles includes a variety of sizes and metal treatments so you can get the perfect shackle for your lifting and rigging situation. We also have a variety of both domestic and imported shackles so you can ensure that you’re always in compliance.
When picking your shackles there are a few key points to make sure that you pay attention to. The first point is the country of manufacture. Many times it is required that you use a domestically made shackle due to manufacturing and testing standards. The diameter is important too. After all, a shackle that won’t fit isn’t of much use. Lastly, be sure to check the WLL or working load limit to ensure that your shackle can handle the load you plan on lifting.
The job site tests people every day with new challenges. One challenge that occurs frequently, especially in lifting and rigging is lifting heavy equipment and gear up to where the work is being done. That’s where capstan hoists come in. Capstan hoists have revolutionized the art of lifting and rigging. What used to have to be done by hand, or by using complicated rigs that utilized truck power, can now be done with a lightweight single unit piece.
Our lines of Thern, AB Chance, and Harken capstan hoists are portable and easily fit into hard to access job sites. They are built to deliver high torque rope pulling muscle with constant control. In addition to capstan hoists, we also offer a variety of accessories including mounts, rope locks, stickers, brackets, and foot controls.
Looking for a complete kit? We’ve got those, too. Our capstan kits include everything you need to be lifting and rigging with your capstan like a pro.
When you are lifting hundreds of pounds of material the rope you choose to use is important. Using the wrong rope could cause unnecessary injuries and accidents. Double braid rope is the go-to rope for lifting and rigging. So let’s break down double braid rope.
Double Braid Rope
Double braided rope has a braided core surrounded by a braided sheath (hence the name double braid). The inner and outer braids are generally designed to share the load equally with very low elongation. Double braid rope remains round under tension, imparts no rotational force when loaded, and has a soft hand. These characteristics are why it is ideal to use as a load rope.
While double braid rope is the best rope to use, the diameter of the rope is another important thing to think about. For more information on rope construction, and choosing the right diameter, check out this blog post.
Rope Care
Once you own a rope there are two other key aspects of caring for that rope. That is rope care and rope inspection. What is rope care? Well, while rope is pretty durable, washing your rope can help increase its lifespan - saving you $$$. For more information on washing and caring for your rope, check out this blog post.
Rope Inspection
Rope inspection is also important. Each time you use your rope, you should perform a visual inspection to ensure it’s safe to use. Check for cuts, nicks, burns, excess fraying, flat or uneven spots, glossing, discoloration from sun exposure or chemicals, or inconsistencies in the rope. Refer to the manufacturer's recommendations for complete inspection and usage instructions. For more information on rope inspection, some tips about what to look for, and information on visual signs of wear check out this blog post.
Inspection Log
When inspecting your rope, it is much easier to keep track of your inspections with a Rope Inspection Log. Some manufacturers provide logs with their rope, but if your rope doesn’t come with one, or if you lost it, click here to download one for free from our knowledge base.
We know you’re strong, but sometimes we all need a little help. That’s where haul systems come in. Complete your lifting and rigging kit with GME Supply’s robust selection of haul systems. Haul systems help reduce load weight by offering mechanical advantage.
Mechanical Advantage
Mechanical advantage is a phrase that you hear often when it comes to lifting and is expressed like this 5:1. But what is mechanical advantage, and what does it mean? Mechanical advantage is a measure of the force amplification achieved by using a tool, mechanical device, or haul system. The device preserves the input power and simply trades off forces against movement to obtain an application in output force. Essentially mechanical advantage multiplies the force you apply. The expression 5:1 means that the device reduces the effort to lift an object by 5. For example, if you want to lift 100 pounds a 5:1 mechanical advantage would allow you to only exert 20 pounds of force.
Our selection of haul systems come in a variety of different sizes for a range of applications. Whether you need a haul system for rescue and evacuation or line tensioning and other rigging situations our selection from manufacturers like Sterling and Petzl will have you lifting easier in no time.
Whether you are lifting or rigging, the block you choose is one of the most important decisions you will make. When you’re lifting equipment and materials, the gear you use is the difference between a job well done and an accident with unforeseen consequences. Our dedicated Gear Experts® have spent years sourcing the best and most reliable equipment. We offer a wide selection of American made hardware from world-class manufacturers like Crosby and Rock Exotica.
When choosing the block for your gear set up, the most important thing to keep in mind is standard compliance.
Your block should meet the ASME B30 Standard for lifting and rigging. More specifically, Chapter 26-5 which covers rigging blocks, like those you would use with a capstan hoist. ASME B30 provides standards for materials, rated loads, identification, and operating practices. For more information on the ASME B30 Standard click here to check out our detailed blog post. We’ve also got a free downloadable ASME B30 compliance poster in our Knowledge Base.
Lifting and rigging is a diverse job and when it comes to doing it properly you will need slings that are just as diverse. We’ve got slings in all sizes and shapes to ensure you’ve got access to the equipment you need to get the job done. Our wide variety of slings include manufacturers like LiftAll, Petzl, and DBI Sala. From endless web slings to wire rope slings, and everything in-between, we’ve got just the sling for you.
We also feature sling multipacks. These sling kits are built to help outfit your crew with all the slings they need while saving cash by buying in bulk. You’ll be up and running in no time with our custom built endless sling packs.
Need more information or have a question about our selection lifting and rigging gear? Click here to contact one of our Gear Experts®.