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  • Malleable Wire Rope Clip Type A
  • Malleable Wire Rope Clip Type A

Malleable Wire Rope Clip Type A

No.603005

The H-Lift Malleable Wire Rope Clip Type A is a cost-effective U-bolt style clip made from malleable cast iron for light-duty, non-critical applications. Featuring a rounded saddle design for even load distribution, these clips are ideal for handrails, fencing, guard rails, and perimeter cables in sizes from 6mm to 50mm wire rope diameter.

  • Malleable cast iron construction for light-duty use
  • Rounded saddle for even load distribution
  • Size range: 6mm to 50mm wire rope diameter
  • Affordable solution for non-critical applications
  • Ideal for handrails, fencing, and guard rail installations
  • Technical Data

  • Safety Guide

⚠️ CRITICAL SAFETY WARNING - READ BEFORE USE

Malleable cast iron clips are NOT approved for overhead lifting, hoisting, towing, or safety-critical applications. The malleable iron material is brittle compared to forged steel and can fracture under shock loads or dynamic stress. These clips are designed exclusively for static, non-critical applications such as fencing, guard rails, trellis systems, and handrails. For overhead lifting or high-stress applications, you MUST use Drop Forged clips (US Type, DIN 1142, or G-429 standard). Failure to follow this warning can result in serious injury or death.

Key Features & Benefits

  • Type A Design: Features a distinctive rounded saddle with a smooth underside to distribute clamping load evenly, protecting the wire from localized crushing.
  • Cost-Effective Material: Manufactured from Malleable Cast Iron, offering a highly affordable solution for non-critical applications compared to forged steel.
  • Light Duty Application: Specifically engineered for static loads such as fencing, guard rails, trellis systems, and handrails. Not for overhead lifting.
  • Wide Size Range: Available in sizes from 6mm to 50mm, catering to a broad spectrum of general-purpose wire ropes.
  • Surface Protection: Galvanized finish provides basic corrosion resistance for outdoor use.
  • Easy Assembly: Simple U-bolt and dual-nut design allows for quick installation using standard hand tools.
🔍 What Makes Type A Special?

The Type A designation refers to the rounded saddle design with a smooth underside. This shape distributes clamping pressure more evenly across the wire rope surface compared to flat saddles, reducing the risk of localized crushing or deformation. The rounded profile is particularly effective for protecting softer wire ropes and maintaining rope flexibility in static applications. While not as strong as forged clips, Type A malleable clips offer an excellent cost-to-performance ratio for non-critical, light-duty installations.

Technical Specifications

Clip Type
Type A (Rounded Saddle Design)
Material
Malleable Cast Iron
Duty Rating
Light Duty (Static Loads Only)
Size Range
6mm - 50mm (Metric wire rope diameter)
Surface Finish
Galvanized (Basic Corrosion Protection)
Lifting Use
❌ NOT Approved for Overhead Lifting
Q: What is a "Type A" wire rope clip?
A: Type A refers to a specific design of malleable iron clip with a rounded saddle. It is a commercial-grade clip intended for general utility use, not for high-stress lifting.
Q: Can I use malleable clips for lifting loads?
A: No. Malleable iron is brittle compared to forged steel and can fracture under shock loads. For overhead lifting (hoisting, towing), always use Drop Forged clips (US Type or DIN 1142).
Q: What is the difference between malleable and drop forged clips?
A: Malleable clips are cast from iron and designed for static, non-critical applications. Drop forged clips are formed from steel under extreme pressure, aligning the metal grain structure for superior strength, impact resistance, and safety in lifting operations. Drop forged clips cost more but are required for any safety-critical or dynamic loading application.
Q: Where can I use Type A malleable clips?
A: Ideal applications include: wire fencing, garden trellis systems, decorative cable railings (non-load-bearing), handrails (supplementary support), static guy wires, and general cable management where loads are minimal and constant. Always avoid shock loads, vibration, and overhead applications.
Malleable Wire Rope Clip Type A

Dimensions & Ordering Information

All dimensions in millimeters (mm). A=Saddle Width, B=Overall Length, C=Saddle Depth, D=Bolt Diameter, E=Saddle Thickness, F=U-Bolt Width, G=Thread Length. Weight in kilograms per piece.

Item No. Size Dimensions (mm) Weight
(kg)
Product Code
A B C D E F G
WRCA06 6MM 12 17 14 5 14 23 24 0.021 603005006
WRCA08 8MM 15 21 16 6 17 28 30 0.038 603005008
WRCA10 10MM 19 28 20 8 21 38 37 0.076 603005010
WRCA12 12MM 24 34 25 10 27 45 47 0.145 603005012
WRCA15 15MM 29 40 30 12 32 52 56 0.241 603005015
WRCA20 20MM 36 47 36 14 38 62 70 0.42 603005020
WRCA22 22MM 40 52 39 16 43 69 77 0.42 603005022
WRCA25 25MM 43 56 44 18 50 76 85 0.813 603005025
WRCA28 28MM 48 62 48 20 57 85 95 1.2 603005028
WRCA32 32MM 55 67 51 22 61 93 108 1.465 603005032
WRCA40 40MM 64 81 62 24 73 111 120 2.5 603005040
WRCA45 45MM 72 88 70 27 86 123 137 3.3 603005045
WRCA50 50MM 80 95 80 30 95 135 154 4.6 603005050

Recommended Applications (Static Loads Only)

✓ Fencing & Gardens
Wire fencing, trellis systems, vineyard wires, garden structures
✓ Decorative Applications
Non-load-bearing cable railings, architectural accents, display systems
✓ Static Guy Wires
Light poles, antenna supports (non-critical), static tensioning
✓ General Utility
Cable management, light-duty rigging, temporary installations

A Complete Guide to Wire Rope Clips

Selection, Installation, Safety, and Maintenance

What Are Wire Rope Clips?

Wire rope clips (also called wire rope clamps or cable clamps) are mechanical fittings used to form eyes (loops) or temporary terminations at the end of wire ropes. They typically consist of a U‑bolt, a saddle, and two nuts that clamp the live and dead ends of the rope together.

When selected and installed correctly, wire rope clips can provide a secure and adjustable termination that reaches a high percentage of the rope’s original breaking strength. They are widely used in construction, lifting, marine, transportation, and general industrial applications.

Main Types and Models

1. By Structure / Design

U‑bolt Wire Rope Clips

The most common design, consisting of a U‑shaped bolt, a saddle, and two nuts.

  • Forged U‑bolt clips: High strength, for critical and lifting-related applications.
  • Malleable U‑bolt clips: Only for non‑critical, light‑duty uses such as guard rails or fencing.

Double Saddle / Fist Grip Clips

These have two saddles and two through‑bolts, distributing the clamping force more evenly around the rope.

  • They are often used in heavy‑duty or high‑load applications where reduced rope distortion and extra security are important.

2. By Material

  • Galvanized steel clips: General‑purpose choice with good corrosion resistance for outdoor and industrial environments.
  • Stainless steel clips (e.g. 304, 316): Used in marine, offshore, chemical, or other highly corrosive environments, offering superior corrosion resistance and appearance.
  • Malleable iron clips (zinc plated or painted): Used in indoor or dry environments for non‑critical applications, where loads are low and failure would not cause injury.

3. Typical Model / Size Range

Most manufacturers mark clips by wire rope diameter. Below is a typical application range guide:

Clip Size (inch) Typical Rope Diameter (mm) Typical Application Range
1/8" 3–4 mm Light cables, small lanyards, small barriers
3/16" 5 mm Small guy wires, light suspensions
1/4" 6–7 mm General utility cables, small hoisting lines
3/8" 10 mm Construction and industrial rigging
1/2" 13 mm Heavier rigging, structural guys
5/8"–1" 16–26 mm Heavy construction, cranes, tower guys

Exact sizing and designation depend on the manufacturer’s catalog and local standards.

Typical Uses and Applications

Wire rope clips are used wherever a loop or temporary termination is needed on wire rope:

Construction and Lifting

  • Forming eyes at the end of slings (where codes permit).
  • Temporary guy lines for scaffolding, masts, and formwork bracing.

Marine and Offshore

  • Mooring lines and fender lines.
  • Lifeline systems and handrails.

Industrial and Utilities

  • Hoisting and winch lines.
  • Safety barriers, cable tray supports, and utility pole guys.

Transportation and Logistics

  • Securing loads with wire rope tie‑downs.
  • Winch cables and recovery lines (non‑personnel lifting).
Note: In many jurisdictions, clip‑assembled slings are restricted or prohibited for overhead lifting; forged terminations (sockets, swaged fittings, etc.) are preferred for critical lifting.

How Wire Rope Clips Work (Basic Principle)

Wire rope clips work by clamping the live end and the dead end of the rope together over a sufficient length, using multiple clips with specified spacing and torque. The friction and deformation under the saddle prevent the rope from slipping.

A Key Industry Rule for U‑Bolt Clips:

“Never saddle a dead horse.”

This means the saddle must always be on the live (load‑bearing) end, and the U‑bolt on the dead end. Otherwise, the rope can be crushed and slip under load.

Installation: Step‑by‑Step Guide

Pre‑installation Checklist

Before installing wire rope clips, always:

  • Check that the clip size matches the rope diameter (e.g. 3/8" clip on 3/8" rope).
  • Inspect the rope for broken wires, kinks, severe corrosion, or deformation.
  • Use a thimble in the loop when forming a permanent or semi‑permanent eye.
  • Confirm the minimum number of clips, turnback length, and torque from the manufacturer’s table.

Recommended Minimum Number of Clips & Turnback

(Example values based on a common forged U‑bolt clip table)

Rope Dia. (in) Min. No. of Clips Approx. Turnback Length (in) Torque (ft‑lbs)
1/8" 2 3.25–3.5 4.5
3/16" 2 3.75–4.0 7.5
1/4" 2 4.75 15
5/16" 2 5.25 30
3/8" 2 6.5 45
1/2" 3 11.5 65
5/8" 3 12–16 95
3/4" 3–4 18–19 130–225
1" 5 26–37 225

Always refer to the specific manufacturer’s data sheet, as exact numbers vary by brand and standard.

Installation Steps for U‑Bolt Wire Rope Clips

  1. Form the loop and position the thimble
    Turn back the specified length of rope and place a thimble in the eye if required.
  2. Install the first clip
    Place the first clip one saddle width from the end of the thimble or loop. Ensure saddle is on the live end, U‑bolt on the dead end. Tighten nuts evenly to the recommended torque.
  3. Install the second clip
    Place it as close to the thimble as possible, again with the saddle on the live end. Tighten the nuts to the specified torque.
  4. Install remaining clips
    Space the additional clips equally between the first two. Typical spacing is about 6–7 rope diameters between clips.
  5. Apply initial load and re‑tighten
    Load the assembly to the expected working load (or slightly higher) to seat the rope. Then re‑check and re‑torque all nuts to the specified values.
  6. Regular inspection
    Periodically inspect the clips during service and re‑tighten if any loosening is detected.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Several frequent mistakes significantly reduce the efficiency and safety of wire rope clips:

  • Using the wrong type of clip: Using malleable clips instead of forged clips for critical or lifting applications.
  • Not using enough clips: Fewer clips than recommended reduce holding power and can lead to slippage.
  • Incorrect spacing: Clips placed too close or too far apart do not grip the rope properly.
  • Wrong orientation: Placing the saddle on the dead end crushes the live rope and greatly reduces strength.
  • Not torquing to specification: Under‑torque leads to rope slips; over‑torque damages threads or the clip body.
  • No re‑torque after loading: Rope strands settle after initial loading, so nuts must be re‑tightened to maintain grip.

Safety Guidelines, Precautions & Selection

General Safety Rules

  • Always match clip size to rope size.
  • Use forged clips for any application where failure could cause injury or major damage.
  • Do not use clips on plastic‑coated rope unless the coating is stripped under the clips.
  • Do not use wire rope clips as a permanent solution where swaged or socketed terminations are specified.
  • For personnel lifting, elevator, and man‑riding applications, follow specific standards (such as ANSI A17.1) which often prohibit U‑bolt clips.

Inspection and Maintenance

  • Inspect clips before each use for cracks, deformation, corrosion, or worn threads.
  • Replace any clip that shows damage or has been overloaded.
  • Keep records of installation date, inspection, and re‑torque for critical applications.

How to Choose the Right Clip

  • Type: U‑bolt vs. double saddle/fist grip.
  • Material: Galvanized vs. stainless steel vs. malleable iron (based on environment).
  • Rope size: Clip size must match rope diameter exactly.
  • Load level: Use forged clips for critical/high‑load uses.
  • Standards: Refer to ASME B30.26, local safety rules, and manufacturer instructions.

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