CONTACT DETAILS
National Tel : 0861040506
International Tel : +27117925226
Cellular : 0832514312 / +27832514312
info@liftlash.co.za
PAGE NAVIGATION
LIFTING - Caldwell Main Catalogue
Section E
RIG-RELEASE®
Remote Releasing Lifters
Standard Rig-Release®
Standard Applications
Special Applications
About Rig-Release®
Quality & Engineering E.3
Introduction to Rig-Release® E.4
How Does it Work E.5
Standard Rig-Release®
Manual E.6 - E.7
Radio Controlled E.8 - E.9
Standard Applications
Frequently Asked Questions E.10
Configurations E.11
Step By Step E.12 - E.13
Application Examples E.14 - E.17
Special Applications
Application Examples E.18 - E.19
Options E.20
Extended Capacity Rig-Release® E.21
Rig-Release® Application Evaluation E.22
Care & Use
Care & Use E.23
Index To Rig-Release® Hook
DISCLAIMER:
All product designs are subject to change without notice. Products pictures in this catalogue are a representation of a specific design. The product you purchase will be designed for your specific application and may not look exactly like the picture in this catalogue.
Specialty Lifters
Safety
• Allows rigging to be released remotely.
• Can not unintentionally release a load, when used according to Instruction Manual.
• Meets or exceeds industry standards.
Quality & Engineering
The Rig-Release® Hook is designed for…
Efficiency
• Eliminates the need for a person to physically unhook the rigging.
• Reduces installation time.
• Allows you to work faster and safer.
• Requires only one person to release the rigging.
Versatility
• If you can wrap a sling around the load, then you can set the load and release the rigging remotely.
• Designed for rugged outdoor use.
• Rigging can be used in either a basket or choker configuration.
• Available with either a manual rope control or radio remote control release (2.5 and 5 ton models only).
We offer two releasing methods for the Rig-Release®, Manual and Radio Controlled.
All Rig-Release® Remote Releasing Hooks are ASME compliant and are equipped with redundant safety systems.
Standard for every Rig-Release® Unit:
• Identification nameplate, rated capacities, and safety labels clearly marked on the unit.
• Designed, tested, and manufactured to specific standards including ASME B30.20, B30.9, and AWS D14.1.
• Rated capacity can be supported from either the Lift Arm or the Strip Sling Hook.
• Inner Body Assembly travels down into the LOCK & CAPTURE position and CAN NOT be released under load.
• Lift Arm only moves when the load line is slack.
Standard for every Manual Rig-Release® Unit:
• Release Rope has built in Breakaway Chain to prevent damage to the Inner Body Assembly.
• Additional springs can be added to accommodate heavier
sling weights. Standard for every Radio Controlled Rig-Release® Unit:
• Two step, two button release sequence prevents accidental release signal.
• Radio activated solenoid is mechanically “blocked” when the unit is under load, preventing load release.
• Multiple Rig-Release® Hooks can safely be used together,
consult Instruction Manual for proper operating procedures.
Introduction To The Rig-Release®
The Rig-Release® Hook is designed for…
Caldwell’s patented Rig-Release® Hook is a safe and simple way to release rigging remotely.
The Rig-Release® Hook is designed so it CAN NOT release the rigging while loaded, when used according to operating instructions.
The Rig-Release® Remote Releasing Hook will allow you to set loads – and then – quickly, efficiently and safely release the rigging from a safe distance. The Rig-Release® simply hooks to your crane or spreader beam. You can then attach the sling(s) directly to the Rig-Release® and rig the load. Once the load is set, and the crane line is slack, pull the Release Rope or activate the Radio Remote Control to release the sling(s). No need for a man lift on site or to have a worker crawl out (or up)
just to disconnect sling(s). It’s all done from a safe distance.
MANUAL UNIT
RADIO CONTROL UNIT
Rigging is attached in two places and released from one.
The Rig-Release® Hook consists of two main components, an OUTER STEEL BODY (shown in RED) that protects and supports the INNER BODY ASSEMBLY (shown in BLACK).
How Does It Work?
Take A Look Inside
These components work together to prevent rigging from being released under load.
In the unloaded position, the springs of the Rig-Release® Hook are relaxed and the Inner Body Assembly is in the UP (LOAD & RELEASE) position. When a load is attached to the Rig-Release® Hook, the springs are extended allowing the Inner Body Assembly to move to the DOWN (LOCK & CAPTURE) position. The Lift Arm is IN and is blocked from releasing the sling by the
Outer Steel Body.
When the load is set and there is slack in the crane line, the springs relax, pulling the Inner Body Assembly to the UP (LOAD & RELEASE) position. The Lift Arm can now pivot to the OUT position, use the Rope Lanyard (Manual Units) or the Radio Transmitter (Radio Control Units), to release the sling.
Rig-Release® Manual Releasing Hook
Model RR - Manual Release Unit
PRODUCT FEATURES:
• Rope Guide allows rigging to be released when hook is either above or beside the operator. If hook is located below the operator please see Upward Pull option on page E.20.
• Designed for rugged outdoor use.
• Easy to use - simply rig, lift, set and release.
• LOCK & CAPTURE feature engages with very little load weight (see Minimum Load in chart below).
• Rated load capacity can be lifted from either Lift Arm or the lower Strip Sling Hook. Do not exceed rated capacity of hook.
• Oversized bail for easy mounting on crane hook - 5, 10 & 15 ton units provided with fixed bails.
• Designed and manufactured to ASME standards.
The Rig-Release® Remote Releasing Hook will allow you to set loads – and then – quickly, efficiently and safely release the
sling from a safe distance. The Rig-Release® simply hooks to your crane or spreader beam. Attach the lifting sling(s) directly to the Rig-Release® and rig the load. Once the load is set, and the load line is slack, pull the Release Rope to release the sling(s). No need for a man lift on site or to have a worker crawl out (or up) just to disconnect sling(s). It’s all done from a safe distance.
Rig-Release® Manual Releasing Hook
SAFETY FEATURES:
• When the minimum load is applied, the Inner Body Assembly sits in the LOCK & CAPTURE position and CAN NOT be released.
• Inner Body Assembly only allows slings to release when the load line is slack.
• Release Rope has built in Breakaway Chain to prevent damage to the Inner Body Assembly.
• Additional springs can be added to accommodate heavier sling weights.
Rig-Release® Radio Releasing Hook
Model RR-R - Radio Controlled Release Unit
PRODUCT FEATURES:
• Allows rigging to be released from a safe distance with the push of a button.
• Designed for rugged outdoor use.
• Easy to use - simply rig, lift, set and release.
• LOCK & CAPTURE feature engages with very little load weight (see Minimum Load in chart below).
• Includes two 12 VDC 0.8 Amp Hr. sealed maintenance free lead acid batteries (rechargeable).
• Includes one charger, and one vehicle adapter for standard 12 VDC vehicle outlets.
• Battery life lasts through an 8 hour shift, depending on frequency of operation.
• Minimum required cycle time is 1 - 2 minutes between releases.
• Oversized bail for easy mounting on crane hook, 5 ton unit provided with fixed bail.
• Designed and manufactured to ASME standards.
The Rig-Release® Remote Releasing Hook with Radio Remote Control will allow you to set the loads - and then - quickly, efficiently and safely release the sling from a safe distance. The Radio Remote feature puts the sling control at your finger tips. The Rig-Release® simply hooks to your crane or spreader beam. Attach the lifting sling(s) directly to the Rig-Release® and rig the load. Once the load is set, and the load line is slack, activate the Radio Remote Control to release the sling(s). No need for a man lift on site or to have a worker crawl out (or up) just to disconnect sling(s). It’s all done from a safe distance, with the control at the tip of your fingers.
Rig-Release® Radio Releasing Hook
Radio Remote Rig-Release® Hooks Come With These
Accessories As Standard Equipment
SAFETY FEATURES:
• Radio activated solenoid is mechanically blocked when the unit is under load, preventing load release.
• Two step, two button activation (release) sequence prevents inadvertent release signal.
• Transmitter times out in 10 seconds, which prevents inadvertent release of rigging.
• The built-in safety features of the Rig-Release® allow multiple hooks to be used on the same job site.
• Range up to 400 feet, with clear line of site.
Vehicle Adapter
Two Rechargeable Charger
Batteries
Transmitter
(Radio Remote Control)
Charger
Can the load be released accidentally?
When used properly the Rig-Release® can not be accidentally released under load.
Why can’t the Rig-Release® Hook be released under load?
Once a load is applied to the Rig-Release® Hook, it’s Inner
Body Assembly sets into a “LOCK & CAPTURE” position and
can not be released. Refer to page E.5 for details.
Do I still have to unhook the rigging from the load?
No. By design, a properly rigged Rig-Release® Hook removes the rigging from the set load when the crane hook is raised up.
Does the released rigging fall to the ground?
No. A properly rigged Rig-Release® Hook has one end of the rigging attached to it at ALL TIMES.
Why is a wire rope sling attached to the Rig-Release® Hook in TWO places?
One end is for its release from the Rig-Release® Hook and
the other end holds the rigging so that it can be stripped
from the load and not fall to the ground.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does the Rig-Release® Hook have a minimum capacity?
In order for the safety mechanism (LOCK & CAPTURE) to work, you must be lifting at least the minimum stated capacity on the Rig-Release® Hook being used.
Where can I get the Rig-Release® Hook inspected or serviced?
Only at the factory in Rockford, Illinois.
Can I choke loads and use the Rig-Release® Hook?
Yes, a catch sling is required in addition to the load sling.
Refer to page E.13 for details.
Can I pick up a load at full rated capacity using only the strip sling hook on the Rig-Release® Hook?
Yes, the Rig-Release® Hook is designed to support the full
rated capacity from either attachment point.
Can I use it with all types of slings?
It is recommended that only wire rope slings of the proper rating and capacity are to be used with the Rig-Release® Hook. A nylon sling or chain could be used if they have an oblong attached to them, consult factory for details.
Rig-Release® Remote Releasing Hook - Consider The Possibilities...
Work faster and safer on your next challenging job and release your rigging remotely.
General Rigging Configurations
Both hooks shown carrying a load with the Inner Body Assembly in the LOCK & CAPTURE position.
Rigging Configurations
Manual Unit Shown Loaded With
Basket Hitch
Radio Controlled Unit Shown Loaded With Choker Hitch
Step By Step
Rigging The Rig-Release® Hook - Basket Hitch
Releasing The Rig-Release® Hook
Step By Step
Rigging The Rig-Release® Hook - Choker Hitch
On the Manual Unit, which is rope lanyard controlled, if the rope gets hungup, will it release the load?
No, the rope has a breakaway chain which will yield and break if excessive force is applied. This protects the Rig-Release® from severe damage. Even if the breakaway chain was removed, no amount of force on the rope will allow the hook to release under load.
If the rope breaks, how do I release the load?
You would have to do this manually, by going up and releasing the rigging and bringing the Rig-Release® Hook to the ground for proper repair.
Standard Applications
Questions on Manual Units (Rope Lanyard controlled)
Setting Vertical Columns
Short span trusses can be handled one at a time, or in a bundle.
Standard Applications
Perfect For Wood or Steel Roof Trusses
Use two Rig-Release® Hooks
in conjunction with a spreader
beam on long span trusses.
Standard Applications
Questions on Radio Controlled Units
What is the range or distance of the Radio Remote Control (Transmitter)?
The Rig-Release® Hook will work up to 400 feet with a clear line of site. Field conditions, type of rigging used, weather, and battery charge can also affect performance.
If I accidentally push the “RELEASE” button on the transmitter, what happens?
Nothing! To activate the Rig-Release® Hooks releasing mechanism, two buttons need to be pushed in the proper sequence. The first button is the “ARM” button and the second is the “RELEASE” button. They must be pushed in this order.
If I accidentally push the “ARM” button and then accidentally push the “RELEASE” button, can I accidentally disconnect the rigging?
The two button release procedure sequence is timed. Once the “ARM” button is pushed, you have only 10 seconds to push the “RELEASE” button. After 10 seconds, the transmitter is timed out and you must start the release sequence from the beginning.
If both buttons were accidentally pushed in the right order and within 10 seconds would the load release?
When properly loaded, the Rig-Release® Hook is in the LOCK & CAPTURE position and the Lift Arm and Mechanical Release Button are physically locked and can not open.
Standard Applications
Are there different frequencies for different hooks?
All standard Radio Controlled Rig-Release® Hooks work on the same frequency which is 418 MHz*. This allows for the controlled release of multiple Rig-Release® Hooks using a single transmitter (Refer to Instruction Manual).
* Alternative frequencies available, refer to page E.20.
How long does the battery last?
Generally a battery will hold its charge for an eight hour shift, but it depends upon the lifting cycle. All Radio Controlled Rig-Release® Hooks come with two rechargeable batteries.
What else comes with the Radio Controlled Rig-elease® Hook?
Two rechargeable 12 VDC batteries, one transmitter, one 110 volt battery charger and one 12 volt vehicle charger adapter.
Special Applications
Rig-Release® Remote Releasing Hook - Consider The Possibilities...
Remember, if you can lift it with a sling then you can set the load and release it remotely - from a safe distance.
Bio-Hazard:
Four 2.5 ton Radio Controlled Rig-Release® Hooks are attached to a custom designed Caldwell Model 27 Four Point Lifting Beam. This allows the user to lift and dispose of bio-hazard medical waste bags without the need for a worker to “suit-up” and manually release the rigging.
Special Applications
Rig-Release® Options
Multiple options can be added to the Rig-Release®. Adding an option to your Rig-Release® Hook will increase delivery time, consult factory.
Corrosive Environments
Protective Coating
The Rig-Release® Hook is provided with a protective zinc dichromate coating. This option is available on all models and capacities.
Multiple Radio Controlled Units
Alternative Frequencies
Standard Radio Controlled Rig-Release® Hooks work on a 418 MHz frequency. Alternative frequencies are available, please consult factory.
Alternative Addresses
We can set each unit to have different addresses. Each Rig-Release® would be controlled by its own transmitter, allowing each to be released at different times.
Custom Designs
Upward Pull
For applications when the hook is below the operator and an upward pull of the rope lanyard is required. Available on manual release units, all capacities.
Direct Connect
We remove the strip sling hook and lug so the Rig-Release® can be attached directly to the load without the use of slings. Available on all models and capacities, refer to dimensional drawings for clearance.
Protective Coating
& Upward Pull Options
Hardwired Operating System
We replace the Radio / Battery System with a conventional AC power and control system. The system is no longer dependent upon battery power. This option does not come with the accessories shown on page E.9.
Remote Radio Transmitter for Push Button Control
The Radio Transmitter is provided with a 3 foot pigtail and Velcro Mounting Strips. Wire the transmitter pigtail to two open push buttons and mount the transmitter with a clear line of site to the Rig-Release® Hook. You can now control the Rig-Release® from your pendant.
Direct Connect Option
NOTE: To request a price quotation on your specific application, please fill in the Rig-Release® Application Evaluation on page E.22
Extended Capacity - Basket Hitch
Model RR-EC - Extended Capacity Rig-Release® - Basket Hitch
PRODUCT FEATURES:
• For basket hitch only.
• Designed for rugged outdoor use.
• 20 and 30 ton capacity manual release units.
• 10 ton capacity radio controlled release units.
• Easy to use - simply rig, lift, set and release.
• Oversized bail for easy mounting on crane hook.
• Counter balanced to hang level.
• Designed and manufactured to ASME standards.
Rig-Release® Application Evaluation
For a price quote on your specific application,
please complete the above form and contact us
Care & Use
Rig-Release® Remote Releasing Hooks have been designed for specific tasks to withstand the particular forces imposed. Guidelines for installation, inspection, maintenance and repair, safe operation and operator training of these lifters follow. A complete operation and maintenance manual is provided with each unit.
​
INSTALLATION
Below/Hook Lifters should be assembled and installed in accordance
with the manufacturer’s instructions, unless other specific arrangements have been approved in writing by the manufacturer.
OPERATOR TRAINING
Lifters shall be operated in accordance with manufacturer’s instruction manual, and by qualified persons who have received instructions described in the “Operating Practices” section of these guidelines. Training shall also include instruction regarding:
1. Details of the lifting cycle.
2. Application of the lifter to the load including (according to the manufacturer’s instructions) adjustments to the lifter, if any, to adapt it to various sizes and kinds of loads.
3. Instruction in any special operations or precautions that may be required.
4. Recognition of proper load configuration.
5. Before assuming responsibility for using the lifter, an operator shall demonstrate his understanding of the lifting procedure to the instructor. The instructor should record notes of operator’s demonstrated ability.
INSPECTION
The lifter shall be visually inspected by or under the direction of an appointed person on a daily or weekly schedule depending on the nature of the lifter and the severity of the service. Details to look for include but are not limited to:
1. Structural deformation.
2. Cracks in the structural frame, welds, hoist hook attachment points, mechanically operating parts, any attached slings, clevises and hooks.
3. Malfunctions during operation of a mechanically operating lifter.
4. Loose covers, fasteners and stops.
5. Faulty operation of automatic hold and release mechanisms.
6. Wear of hoist hooking points, load supporting clevises, pins, slings, linkages and mechanical parts.
7. Missing identification and product safety labels.
MAINTENANCE AND REPAIRS
1. A preventive maintenance program should be established for each lifter by a qualified person based on recommendations made by its manufacturer.
2. All repairs and parts replacement shall be completed by the manufacturer.
OPERATING PRACTICES
DO’S
1. The operator shall receive, read and understand the manufacturer’s instruction manual.
2. The operator shall watch carefully to insure that the lifter is performing properly during the lifting procedure.
3. The operator shall know standard crane directing hand signals.
4. The operator shall only respond to signals from an appointed person. However, stop signals from anyone shall be obeyed.
5. The operator shall notify a designated person when he considers a load to be unsafe.
6. The operator shall inspect the lifter before use. Any defect observed shall be examined by a qualified person to determine if it is a hazard.
DONT’S
1. The operator shall not operate a malfunctioning lifter or one with an “out of service” tag attached.
2. The operator shall not use the lifter for any purpose(s) other than those designated by the manufacturer’s instruction manual.
3. The operator shall not use a lifter when the capacity, weight or product safety labels are missing.
4. No one shall make alterations or modifications to lifters without consulting the manufacturer.
5. No one shall obscure or paint over the manufacturer’s capacity, weight, or product safety labels.
6. Loads shall not be lifted higher than necessary or be left suspended unattended.
7. The lifter shall not lift a load that is not properly balanced for safe lifting.
HANDLING THE LOAD
1. The lifter shall not be loaded in excess of its rated load.
2. Ensure the load can withstand forces applied by the lifter.
3. The combined weight of the lifter and load shall not exceed the rated load of the crane or hoist.
4. The lifter shall be applied to the load in accordance with the manufacturer’s recommended operating procedure.
5. Lifter ropes and chains shall not be kinked, and multiple part lines shall not be twisted about each other.
6. The lifter shall not touch obstructions during load movement.
7. The lifter shall not be loaded with loose material that might fall during movement.
8. The operator or other personnel shall not place themselves or any part of their bodies beneath suspended loads.
9. The load or lifter shall not drag or slide on the floor or other surface.
10. The lifter shall not be used for loads for which it is not designed.
11. If suspended loads are moved manually, they shall be pushed, not pulled.
12. A preliminary lift of a few inches shall be made to establish that the load is stable.
13. All loads shall be accelerated and decelerated smoothly and slowly.
Modifications or repairs performed on your lifting equipment without prior written approval from The Caldwell Group, Inc. voids your warranty. Refer to ASME standards for information regarding the liability of repaired or modified lifters.