With so many different types of hooks available, it can be hard to decide how to choose the correct hook for your project. It's important to select the correct hook for the job, so there are certain factors to consider when choosing a hook:
The weight of the load
The type of load (and angle of the lift)
Shackle connections
Connection point at the head and the bottom of the hook
Eye bolts, swivel hoists or lifting point connections
Types of Safety Mechanisms:
Safety Latch Hook or Sling Hook - These hooks always stay closed. They require manual opening of the latch to take off the load.
Self-Locking Hook - These hooks have a trigger which requires manual intervention to open and close the latch mechanism.
Ways to Attach Hooks to a Chain Sling:
Clevis Type Connection - This style connects directly on the chain. There is less flexibility in movement when the hook is connected this way.
Eye Type Connection - In most cases, an eye hook requires a coupler to be able to connect. This does however get more flexibility to the chain or sling movement by the easy connection to the coupler.
Shapes of Hooks:
Swivel Hooks - These are designed with a ball bearing so the hook can swivel freely under load. This rotation helps reduce stress and prevent any twisting of an attached load and prevents loads becoming unbalanced during lifting.
Grab Hooks - These provide flexibility to shorten chain slings.
