22.4.2 Type (2) - Clamps Lifting Horizontally

These clamps are used in pairs in conjunction with a two leg sling. The sling may be permanently attached to the clamps or the clamps may terminate in an eye or shackle into which the hook of the sling (preferably a safety hook) is inserted. The clamps may be provided with a toe or cam to grip the plate, (see Figure 22.4.2-1  a) which is by far the safest type, or grip only by the inward force produced by the angle of the sling. (See Figure 22.4.2-1  b)

Despite their simplicity of operation, horizontal plate lifting clamps are purpose designed to take account of the forces which occur in the line of lifting. Some of these clamps are designed to be used on an endless loop in which case it must not be changed for a two leg sling nor should an endless loop be substituted for a two leg sling as in both cases this would alter the geometry of the arrangement and thus the forces.

Horizontal plate handling clamps may be designed to handle one plate at a time or a bundle.