When it comes to lifting shipping containers, the right equipment can make all the difference. Lift lugs, which attach to a container's corner fittings, are critical for secure handling. This guide will compare the two primary lift lug types from Tandemloc: Top Lift Lugs and Rotary Lift Lugs, highlighting their key features, differences, and benefits.
What Are Container Lifting Lugs?
Container lifting lugs are metal attachments used to safely lift shipping containers. These lugs securely connect to the corner fittings of the container, allowing it to be lifted by cranes, slings, or other lifting equipment. They are specifically designed to interface with standard container corner fittings in accordance with the ISO 1161 standard.
There are two main types of container lifting lugs: top lift lugs and rotary lift lugs. Top lift lugs are primarily used for lifting empty containers and fit into the top corner fittings, while rotary lift lugs are designed for lifting loaded containers and are used with the bottom corner fittings. The key purpose of these lugs is to distribute the lifting load evenly, providing stability and preventing damage to the container.
Top Lift Lugs
Tandemloc’s top lift lug, the 20901AA Series Top Lift Lug, is designed for lifting containers from the top corner fittings. This method is typically used for empty containers, as lifting from the top with a load requires strict compliance with safety standards.
When a container is empty, the sling attached to the lift lug can be at an angle, making the lifting process more flexible. The top lift lug’s flexibility makes it a great option for containers that are not filled with heavy cargo, as it allows for lifting without the need for bulky equipment like spreader beams or ISO spreaders.
However, there are important safety guidelines to follow when using top lift lugs. According to ISO 1496 and ISO 3874, when lifting a loaded container, the lift lug must be lifted vertically to prevent any angle being applied to the lug and corner fitting on the container. If there is any load inside the container, strain is avoided on the lifting equipment.
Key Features of Our Top Lift Lugs:
- Primarily used for empty containers
- Fits into the top corner fittings of containers
- Economical and easy to store compared to larger equipment
- Requires lifting directly upwards when lifting a loaded container
- Ideal for lifting empty containers without the need for a spreader beam
Rotary Lift Lugs
Tandemloc’s rotary lift lug, the 416000C-LSTZW Rotary Lift Lug, is designed for a more flexible lifting solution, especially for loaded containers. Unlike top lift lugs, rotary lift lugs are used with the bottom corner fittings, enabling a lift at an angle. This makes them ideal for situations where a container is loaded, as the lifting angle can vary depending on the rigging equipment.
The key advantage of rotary lift lugs is their ability to rotate, which provides flexibility in the sling angle when lifting a loaded container. As per ISO standards, the sling angle should not drop below 30 degrees, but above 30 degree the rotary lift lug provides flexibility with the sling angle, making it easier to adjust the angle and safely lift the container.
Rotary lift lugs are also universal, meaning they can be used on all four corner fittings of the container without needing left or right-specific versions. This flexibility is an advantage over other products on the market that may require different configurations for different positions on the container.
Key Features of Our Rotary Lift Lugs:
- Ideal for lifting loaded containers
- Fits into the bottom corner fittings of containers
- Allows for some flexibility in the sling angle
- Universal design can be used in all four positions on a container
- No need for shackles, as they connect directly to the wire rope thimble
- Made in the USA
Top Lift Lugs vs. Rotary Lift Lugs
While both top and rotary lift lugs serve the same primary purpose of safely lifting containers, they are suited for different scenarios. Our 20901AA Series Lifting Lug is best for lifting empty containers and is most effective when you need an economical and practical solution. However, they are limited when lifting loaded containers, as they must be lifted vertically. Accessing the lift lug may also require the use of a ladder, which can pose safety risks if not used properly.
Our 416000C-LSTZW Rotary Lift Lug on the other hand, is more versatile and can handle lifting loaded containers with the flexibility to accommodate different sling angles. This lug is ideal for situations where containers need to be lifted from the bottom, offering a solution when top lifting is not feasible.
Additionally, Tandemloc offers a Heavy Duty Rotary Lift Lug option, a rotary lift lug that is significantly oversized. With a working load limit of 29,000 pounds and a 10:1 safety ratio, this heavy-duty option is ideal for specialized uses, such as lifting heavier containers or containers in high-risk environments.
Choosing Between Top and Rotary Lift Lugs:
- Top Lift Lugs are more cost-effective and easy to store, making them a good option for lifting empty containers or when lifting height and space constraints are not an issue.
- Rotary Lift Lugs provide greater flexibility and are essential for lifting loaded containers where the lifting angle or load conditions require more adjustment.
Why Choose Lift Lugs Over Other Lifting Methods
Container lifting lugs offer several advantages over other container lifting methods. They are an affordable solution that doesn't require the use of large, bulky equipment and can be easily stored and deployed.
When compared to spreader beams or ISO spreaders, which can cost tens of thousands of dollars, lift lugs are a significantly more economical option, costing just a few hundred dollars per lug. Additionally, they are proof-tested to 200% of their working load limit, and can be used with a variety of rigging slings, including wire rope, chain, and synthetic rope.
Understanding the differences between top and rotary lift lugs can help you choose the right lifting solution for your needs. Whether you are lifting empty or loaded containers, Tandemloc's lift lugs offer the flexibility, safety, and affordability required to get the job done right. With options for both top and rotary lifting, our lugs provide an essential tool for any container handling operation, guaranteeing safe and efficient lifting, each time.
