wire rope clamps 1

[zcp]

Someone has proposed adding fastenal epoxy or possibly loctite to the nuts on wire rope clamps to prevent the nuts from backing off. Any thoughts?

My opinion is "don't saddle a dead horse", space properly, torque properly and you are good to go. These particular connections are high up and would be difficult to access once installed to "check" so some worries are being expressed. Thoughts and opinions?

ZCP

http://www.phoenix-engineer.com

 

[structuralaggie]

strike the threads, use lock nuts, tack weld nuts

never heard of using epoxy to accomplish this.

 

[evelrod]

zcp
In my experience I never found a problem with properly spaced and properly tightened Fist clamps loosening. With std. Crosby's, there can sometimes be a problem, especially if the wire rope has been deformed beyond all reasonable use or where they have been improperly installed. "Don't saddle a dead horse" has been the Ironworker's mantra since the 19th Century! You've got it right...still works just as well in the 21st Century, I reckon.

Striking the threads or other such methods on a std. Crosby will no doubt keep the nuts on but the clamp may still loosen as the wire rope compresses in normal use. If your usage precludes the ability to 'snug em up', then I would suggest either the Fist clamps or splicing in an eye. I worked at rigging for 38 years, it's not 'rocket science' and it's not anything new.

Rod

 

[kelowna]

I have seen properly spaced, properly tightened nuts becoming loose on wire rope clamps. All depends on vibration levels, wire rope is more flexible than a steel plate and there is more room for movements. Loctite is very common, myself, I prefer a lock nut, either half the thickness of a normal nut or, easier, two nuts.