Are you working on a task fixing up a safety gate on your barn or the latches on your boat and you’re not sure what product to go with? Are you looking to upgrade your marine hardware?
We offer our snap hooks, bolt snaps, trigger snaps, pulleys and hooks in a variety of materials and finishes and steel is one of the most popular. It can be confusing to differentiate between steel, stainless steel, and nickel plated steel. Here is some basic information to consider when selecting the right steel product for your job!
Are you looking for strength and not worried about corrosion or aesthetic? Steel may be a good option. Modern production of steel began in the late 19th century and was an important part of the Industrial Revolution. Steel was widely used in construction of buildings and railroads due to its strength, cost, and light weight. Today, we see steel being used across a wide range of industries, especially hardware. We offer snap hooks, bolt snaps and hooks manufactured using a durable forged steel. Steel is an alloy consisting of iron and carbon. It has a high tensile strength making it a strong and inexpensive option. However, when exposed to the elements, steel is susceptible to corrosion.
Stainless steel is one of the most common and popular products on the market today. Stainless steel is an alloy made from iron, chromium, and nickel. It’s corrosion resistance combined with it’s aesthetically pleasing look make it a popular choice amongst customers. Our stainless steel snap hooks and trigger snaps are manufactured with a 316 grade stainless with superior corrosion resistance. These snap hooks and trigger snaps can stand up to fresh or salt water exposure without worry of corrosion, making them a great choice for any marine or outdoor application. While stainless steel may be slightly more expensive up front, you will save a lot on the back end as stainless steel pieces are made to last.
The benefits of stainless steel are obvious, but nickel plated steel has many of the same benefits at a lower cost. Nickel plated steel is just that…a steel that has a thin layer of a oxidation resistant nickel applied. The nickel does not decompose, but rather forms a layer of nickel oxide, which prevent further corrosion from occurring. There are several benefits of using nickel plated steel: corrosion resistance, heat resistance, increased strength, resistance to wear and aesthetic. Like stainless steel, nickel plated steel is also a great option for marine and outdoor applications.
Below is a chart for highlighting the pros and cons of these steel products…
Steel
Stainless Steel
Nickel Plated Steel
Composition
Alloy of Iron and Carbon
Alloy of Iron, Chromium and Nickel
High Air Flow
Pros:
-Strong
Durable
-Inexpensive
-Corrosion resistant
-Fire/Heat resistant
-Aesthetically pleasing
-Long term value
-Extreme corrosion resistance
-Wear resistant
-Less expensive than Stainless Steel
Cons:
-Susceptible to corrosion
-Higher up-front cost
-Inadequate plating can lead to corrosion
Application/Industry:
Agricultural, Equine, Dog Leash & Collar, Sports Equipment
Wire ropes, straps, hooks, and other rigging hardware can be used in conjunction with cranes or other lifting equipment to move loads that are too heavy to lift manually. A wide range of industries and applications use rigging every day to facilitate the movement of cargo and materials. Rigging may be largely taken for granted, but proper selection can make the difference between a safe, successful move and one that causes property damage or injury.
Strict safety guidelines must be followed to avoid accidents. There are several steps users should take to make sure everything is used correctly. These include:
Familiarizing all users and stakeholders with information contained within equipment user manuals.
Proper training on all rigging and lifting equipment for all operators.
Conducting regular preventative maintenance on all rigging and lifting equipment.
Adhering to all safety and operational standards set forth by OSHA and other regulating bodies.
The Different Types of Rigging Hardware
Rigging selection can be a complex process, with many different forms of hardware made specifically for certain weights, situations, and environments. Common forms of rigging hardware include:
Hooks
Used to lift heavy objects and eliminate slippage of materials, rigging hooks come in various forms, each one better suited for different weights and material types. The most common styles include:
Hoist hooks
Lifting hooks
Rigging hooks
Sling hooks
Eye Bolts
Eye bolts typically serve as an anchor point for cables or wires and are chosen depending on the angle of the load. Eye bolt types include:
Shoulder eye bolts
Straight eye bolts
Screw eye bolts
U-bolts
Lag eye screws
Steel Nuts
Steel nuts work in concert with eye bolts on many rigging applications. Most steel nuts are made from type 316 stainless steel. Nut types include:
Hex nuts
Ball ends
Dome nuts
Wing nuts
Lifting eye nuts
Wire Ropes
Wire ropes are used in rigging, mooring, and lifting operations. They are typically made with stainless steel and come in multiple sizes and strengths. Wire ropes can be used in conjunction with clips, thimbles, and sleeves.
Pulleys & Blocks
Blocks are a requirement for lifting very heavy loads. They do so by lessening the force needed to move weightier objects. The most common type of block is the snatch block, but swivel blocks and square blocks are also viable options for specific applications. Blocks are easy to deploy, available in multiple sizes, and can accommodate up to 30 tons in weight. Pulleys, available in single and double varieties, tend to be combined with rigging ropes in order to hook onto objects securely. Pulley selection is dependent on rope, frame, and sheave size.
Choosing the Best Hardware for Rigging and Lifting
With so many options, it’s important to differentiate between each piece of equipment and figure out what is best for each unique lifting situation. The correct choice of rigging hardware depends on many variables, such as the different weather conditions they must withstand, the materials they are interacting with, and the industry that is using them.
Rigging is a versatile discipline. Divers use rigging hardware such as bolt snaps and D-rings to attach valuable items to fins, masks, regulators, ventilators, and tanks. Snap hooks, anchor chains, and trailer safety chains do a similar job as sailboat rigging hardware. Different harnesses may be used as saddle rigging hardware for horses, depending on the work load (breast collar harnesses for light work, breast strap harnesses for more strenuous activity). Rigging hardware is also useful for other recreational activities. Links, snaps, eye bolts, and D-rings are all useful ways to stay safe while rock climbing or water skiing.
Rigging hardware is an invaluable source of safety in many industrial, commercial, and recreational applications. Henssgen Hardware offers a wide range of solutions for your rigging needs. If you have any questions or want to request a quote, please contact us here.
Marine hardware allows commercial, industrial, and recreational operators to customize their vessels, increase safety, and improve efficiency. There is a variety of boat rigging hardware that enhances the performance of a diverse range of watercraft.
Buying rigging made from corrosion-resistant materials ensures marine hardware holds up in harsh environments. Knowing what to look for helps watercraft owners find the right marine hardware for their specific needs.
Hardware Types for Marine Applications
Marine hardware fulfills many purposes on watercraft. Common rigging equipment includes:
Snap hooks are a versatile tool used to secure anchor chains, organize gear, tie down tarps, or customize pulley systems. Prepared boaters should always keep a supply of marine snap hooks on their vessels.
Boaters use rope cleats to secure ropes and knots. Rope cleats allow kayakers to customize their rig for comfort and stability.
Double-end hooks allow operators to create strong rope networks to support sails, secure fishing lines, and fasten diving gear.
Rings are another multifaceted tool that helps boaters secure loads and lines. Kayakers and rowers use them to keep equipment close while on the water.
Fixed, open, and swivel-eye snaps are flexible components for sailboats, fishing canoes, and pontoons.
Boat rigging hardware is an integral part of marine activities. Hardware made with the wrong materials sustains damage from sea salt, wind, and water. Environmental stress weakens the hardware and endangers lives and property.
Material Selection for Marine Applications
Corrosion-resistant metals protect vital marine hardware from degrading in aquatic conditions. Optimal materials for marine environments may include:
Durable brass alloys work well for underwater applications. Brass prevents submerged components from wearing away in salty or high-pressure waters.
Steel is a cost-effective solution for milder marine conditions. This material withstands sun and wind damage. Steel alloys may not be the best fit for those who frequent saltwater environments.
Stainless steel is attractive and highly resistant to rust. It’s also less prone to pitting and corrosion from salt water.
Die-cast zinc withstands high temperatures, making it ideal for protecting motorized equipment. Marine hardware made from zinc offers a wide variety of cosmetic finishes that complement exterior components.
Natural elements are the biggest threat to vessel safety. Choose corrosion-resistant materials to prevent weakened and compromised components.
Marine Rigging Solutions from Henssgen Hardware
Henssgen Hardware supplies commercial boaters and water sports enthusiasts alike with high-quality, corrosion-resistant marine hardware. Our selection of clips, snaps, and rings come in a variety of metals, finishes, and sizes to match your specifications at wholesale prices.
It can be confusing to decrypt all of these acronyms like SWL, NWL, WLL and MBS. But Henssgen Hardware is here for you, to educate you on terms like Working Load Limits and everything you need to know about our products.
Safe Working Load, SWL, (or Normal Working Load, NWL) is an outdated term that was used to indicate the amount of weight that a lifting device could safely carry without fear of breaking. It is a calculation of the Minimum Breaking Strength, or MBS.
The more up-to-date phrase for the term SWL is Working Load Limit, or WLL.
The specific definition for the Working Load Limit (WLL) is: The maximum mass or force which a product is authorized to support in general service when the pull is applied in-line, unless noted otherwise, with respect to the centerline of the product.
The manufacturer designates the right or approximate WLL value for each lifting device or use, and considers many factors including the applied load, the length of each rope or line, and many other factors.
It is critically important to heed this number, which is set forth by the manufacturer, when lifting with any device, including a line, rope or crane. The number is calculated by dividing the Minimum Breaking Strength (MBS) by a safety factor that is assigned to that type and use of equipment, generally ranging from four to six unless a failure of the equipment could pose a risk to life. In the event that the failure of the equipment could pose a risk to life, the safety factor is ten.
For example, if a hook has a Minimum Breaking Strength (MBS) of 1,000 pounds and a safety factor of five, then the Working Load Limit (WLL) would be 200 pounds.
The history to the change in terminology
There were legal implications to the term Safe Working Load, so USA standards phased this term out more than twenty years ago, followed by European and ISO standards just a few years afterward. This change took place because of the legal significance placed on the word ‘safe’.
The Americans and Europeans then developed a more appropriate term and definition for the maximum load capacity of a particular lifting device, agreeing to use the term Working Load Limit (WLL) for equipment such as hooks, slings and shackles.
In the cases of cranes, hoists and winches, the term Safe Working Load (SWL) was replaced by Manufacturer’s Rated Capacity (MRC), which is the maximum gross load which may be applied to the crane or hoist or lifting attachment while in a particular working configuration and under a particular condition of used.
Synonyms
SWL — Safe Working Load
NWL — Normal Working Load
WLL — Working Load Limit (Current term used)
Other Acronyms
MBS — Minimum Breaking Strength
MRC — Manufacturers Rated Capacity
Henssgen Hardware is committed to providing top quality products as well as all of the information you need in order to ensure the utmost in safety. Please contact us with any safety questions you may have and we’ll be happy to discuss your needs and which products are the best fit for you.
Even though it’s too soon to call winter officially over, it’s not too soon to start thinking about awning installation season. Once the snow starts to melt off the roof and the deck flooring begins to emerge from beneath the frost, our thoughts turn to long summer afternoons relaxing under the shade of an awning or canopy.
If you’re a DIY kinda guy or gal who wants to expand your outdoor living space, you should start thinking now about what type of awning you want. These days, there are many different types of awnings to choose from. But the common denominator is that they all need the right kind of hardware.
The first thing to consider is what type of awning you want for your house. Is it going to be stationary or retractable? If it’s retractable, will it be motorized or manual? How big do you want your awning to be?
Once you’ve answered those questions, you can figure out what kind of rigging hardware you will need. Mounting brackets that you can install on your siding is the first important consideration. You will need to select brackets, mounts and connecting fittings that will work with the type of siding you have on your home.
If your awning is retractable or movable you will need to select swivel eye pulleys and snaps that will allow your awning to move smoothly and with a minimum of effort. Stainless steel hardware will offer the best protection against the elements, as will rot-resistant rope and cords.
If you are planning to install a larger awning that will span large outdoor deck or patio spaces, it is very important to look at large harness swivel-eye pulleys and fixed-eye trigger snaps.
Maybe your backyard or deck calls for a smaller portable awning? It doesn’t really matter what size or shape it is. It’s just as important to have hardware that won’t weigh your awning down or make it difficult to move or rotate. Using stainless steel, swivel eye pulleys and weather-resistant cords and roping will make relaxing under the shade of your awning a breeze.
Regardless of the size or shape of your awning or canopy, Henssgen Hardware supplies the best snap hooks, pulleys, quick links, and rigging and mounting equipment to get the job done right and make your summer outdoor space hassle-free.
Call us at 1-800-833-9598, contact us online and check out our amazing selection of industrial rigging hardware in our product catalog.
It used to be that hardware stores were the place you went when you needed some nails, or maybe some plumbing tools to fix that leaky faucet.
Over the years, hardware stores have evolved into places where customers can shop for items ranging from large appliances, lighting fixtures, as well as items for your yard and garden. You can even sit down with a designer to build that custom kitchen or bath of your dreams.
But, one of the best aisles to browse is still the aisle that has all the nails, screws, snap hooks, pulleys and other small but irreplaceable hardware “treasures.”
Just think, if you’re a farmer, what would you do if your hardware store no longer carried essentials like panic snaps or all-purpose snaps for your livestock? Or, what about rope and chain hardware and other rigging equipment?
Because Henssgen Hardware is only about 30 miles away from the oldest thoroughbred racetrack in the country, we know there are dozens of horse farms – not to mention, the racetrack itself – that are in constant need of equine hardware. People who’ve worked in horse-racing and other equestrian industries know how important it is to have quick and easy access to horse panic snaps in durable and non-corrosive materials such as die cast zinc, steel, malleable iron and brass. It’s also important to always have an adequate supply on hand of other types of snaps, which are terrific for fixing crossties, leads and other stable equipment.
Hardware stores are not the go-to place for just farmers, horse people, or people who work in the trades. They are also a great place to find unique and eclectic DIY solutions for your home, your storage shed and your garage.
About a year ago, we showed our readers how to use S Hooks to organize clothes closets, hang up pieces of jewelry, as well as using them in your basement, garage and potting shed. Another article showed readers how to use snaps, rings, clips and snap hooks for both art and functionality.
So, the next time you’re browsing through the “large appliance” section of your local hardware store, don’t forget to take a trip down the aisles that contain the “nuts and bolts” of the hardware world.
Henssgen Hardware has been a supplier of quality rigging hardware, snap hooks, S hooks, pulleys, chain hardware and many other items for Farm, Marine, Sport, and Industrial Supply Stores since 1978. We are proud to be family-owned and operated, and we offer only the highest quality hardware, the best customer services and the most competitive pricing. Call us at 1-800-833-9598, or contact us online. And, while you’re there, check out our user-friendly online product catalog that lists our amazing selection of industrial rigging hardware.
Remember how much fun it was pulling out all those holiday decorations? Stringing up all those lights? Hanging the huge wreath on the front door? What about that life-sized sleigh and reindeer that you just had to put on the front lawn?
It doesn’t seem possible, but all the stuff that we dragged out about a month ago now has to be taken down and put away again for another year.
Somehow, it always seems harder to store all of our accumulated treasures than it did to unpack them. Especially when floor space is at a premium. But, it’s a new year and a good time to make a resolution and use the right kind of hardware that will help make your storage a snap.
Space-saving tips
To keep your wreaths and door decorations looking fresh and full-looking, try hanging them from hooks on the wall of your basement or storage area, instead of packing them in those bulky storage bins. First, put them in a clear trash bag and hang them from the hook. It saves floor space and keeps your decorations looking new.
It’s also good to get some of those bigger items, like that Santa sleigh and the eight not so tiny reindeer, off the floor. Take advantage of overhead space in your attic or garage eaves by using a pulley and some sturdy rope hardware. Swivel-eye pulleys make it so easy to lift and lower those heavier items for storage.
Has the box that your 20-year old fake Christmas tree came in finally fallen apart? No worries! After taking your tree apart, store it in sections in heavy duty trash bags and hang the bags on hooks.
And, don’t forget the lights. Once you’ve made sure that they’re all still working and you’re not putting away strings of lights that won’t work next year, use a power cord holder and – you got it – hang them from a hook!
Henssgen Hardware has been a supplier of quality rigging hardware, snap hooks and many other items for Farm, Home and Sport since 1978. We are family-owned and operated business, and we pride ourselves in offering the highest quality hardware, the best customer service and competitive pricing. Call us at 1-800-833-9598, contact us online and check out our amazing selection of industrial rigging hardware in our product catalog.
The rapidly growing popularity of small, local makers of food and dairy products means that there are a growing number of customers who need to upgrade their farm equipment to meet strict codes enforced by the dairy industry. Also, more and more people want to know where their food is coming from. So, local producers and farm stores are experiencing a rebirth around the country.
Small local dairy farmers are making and selling their own yogurts, cheeses, butter and milk right on the farm, which means they must use stainless steel equipment. The average person may think that stainless steel is only necessary for equipment such as the milk holding tanks or stainless equipment in the food processing areas.
But, stainless steel is also one of the best materials for snap hooks, quick-release and panic snaps, and pulleys. If your local farmer’s pulleys and hooks resemble something you might find in the vintage antique shop, it’s time for a change.
Some facts about dairy cows
Did you know that there are about 11 million cows in America and 94 percent of them are the familiar black and white Holsteins?
When a Holstein is born, it weighs about 90 lbs. By the time it reaches adulthood, it weighs an average of 1,500 lbs. and stands almost five feet tall at the shoulders. That’s one hefty heifer!
Cows need to be able to move their heads freely. They tend to panic if they are restricted from looking behind them. That is why fasteners, snaps and quick-release snap hooks are the safest kind of equipment to use – for both the cow and the farmer.
Some reasons to use stainless steel pulleys, snaps and hooks
Stainless steel is chemically and biologically neutral and has no impact on the dairy products you consume.
Stainless is easier to clean and disinfect because of its smooth surface.
Because of its composition, stainless steel is extremely durable and resistant to corrosion.
So, save those vintage pulleys, hooks and riggings hardware for the flea market or antique shop. When buying hooks, pulleys and snaps, think stainless steel.v
Henssgen Hardware has been supplying customers with the highest quality rigging hardware since 1978. We stock more than 100 different styles of snap hooks, pulleys and quick links in all sizes and in a large variety of metals to serve the dairy industry as well as marine, sports and agricultural industries. Our full-service warehouse, located in upstate NY can ship your order and get it to you within just a few days. And, our online catalog makes purchasing quick and easy.
Contact Henssgen Hardware today at our toll-free number, 800-833-9598, to talk to one of our knowledgeable staff. Or visit us at www.henssgenhardware.com.
As winter descends upon us and the days and nights grow colder, fans of ice fishing are getting out their gear and preparing to reel in plenty of fish from nearby lakes, streams, and rivers.
For those who are new to this chilly winter sport and excited to get out on the ice, you’ve probably already got your augurs, chisels and special rods, reels and lures. And, your ice shanty is sitting in your garage, all ready to be loaded onto your pickup.
Think you’ve got everything? Well, before you head out onto the ice, don’t forget the other gear. You’re going to need sturdy rigging hardware to pull that shanty onto the lake or river. And, once you’re all settled on the ice, gear like D rings, double end bolt snaps and quick links are indispensable items for hanging your gear inside your shanty and keeping your reels and lines untangled and organized.
It’s also a good idea to have snap hooks linked to your fishing vest and other outerwear, giving you easy access to lures, jigs and other items that you’ll need to get your hands on in a hurry. If you’re really diving into the ice fishing experience, chances are you’re going to cook your own food while you’re out there. Did you bring a cooking pot to hang over your campfire? Don’t forget to also pack some S-hooks for hanging the pot and other galley gear. Henssgen Hardware has a complete line of the best pulleys, hooks, all-purpose snaps and quick links in Stainless Steel, brass, die-cast zinc and other metals that won’t corrode when exposed to the water and the freezing elements.
Be sure to browse our extensive online catalog before you finish packing for your first ice-fishing trip of the winter. Otherwise, you could find yourself fishing on thin ice without the right equipment
More and more people are using awnings to expand their living space, add seating capacity for restaurants, lounges and cafes, and to keep the elements at bay. Back in the day, the only awnings you saw were the ones people put on their windows in the summer to keep their homes cooler. These days you see them everywhere.
It seems climate has less and less to do with what part of the country awnings pop up – or roll out, as the case may be. That’s why it is particularly important for manufacturers – and consumers – to make sure that the hardware on the awning is going to hold up against all different types of weather and conditions.
Things like salt, precipitation and high humidity can wreak havoc on that expensive awning – if the hardware can’t hold up. If you’re a manufacturer and most of your customers live or have businesses along the coast, you are going to need the best marine hardware products available. They need to be corrosion-and rust-resistant, without detracting from the aesthetics of your product.
Snaps, pulleys and swivel bolts made of stainless steel, nickel-plated, die cast zinc or brass are probably going to be your best bet, giving your product longer life without hardware replacement hassles and adding beauty and quality to the overall product.
If your product list includes tarps, tents or boat covers in addition to awnings, the same rule applies.
For retractable awnings, whether you require swivel eye pulleys or fixed-eye die-cast, they need to maintain their efficiency and their appearance so your customers can get that awning opened or closed on a moment’s notice.
For all of these items and more, your best resource is Henssgen Hardware. A family-owned and operated business, Henssgen is a leading distributor of over 100 boat snap hooks and assorted hardware including assorted snap hooks, pulleys, quick links, and more! Call us at 1-800-833-9598, contact us online and check out our amazing selection of industrial rigging hardware in our product catalog.
Stainless steel is one of the most common and popular products on the market today. Stainless steel is an alloy made from iron, chromium, and nickel. It’s corrosion resistance combined with it’s aesthetically pleasing look make it a popular choice amongst customers. Our stainless steel snap hooks and trigger snaps are manufactured with a 316 grade stainless with superior corrosion resistance. These snap hooks and trigger snaps can stand up to fresh or salt water exposure without worry of corrosion, making them a great choice for any marine or outdoor application. While stainless steel may be slightly more expensive up front, you will save a lot on the back end as stainless steel pieces are made to last.
The manufacturer designates the right or approximate WLL value for each lifting device or use, and considers many factors including the applied load, the length of each rope or line, and many other factors.
The Americans and Europeans then developed a more appropriate term and definition for the maximum load capacity of a particular lifting device, agreeing to use the term Working Load Limit (WLL) for equipment such as hooks, slings and shackles.
And, don’t forget the lights. Once you’ve made sure that they’re all still working and you’re not putting away strings of lights that won’t work next year, use a power cord holder and – you got it – hang them from a 
Some facts about dairy cows
