~ BS6994:1988

UDC 621.885.96 : 631.86.

05 : 669.14.018.295 :
[(083.72) +389.151

0 British Standards Institution.No part of this publication may be photocopied or otherwise reproduced without the prior permission in writing
of BSI

British Standard Specification for

O Steel shackles for lilting and general engineering

purposes: gradeM(4)

Maillons en acier pour oprations de levage et de mcanique gnrale:

qualit M(4) - Spcifications

LastsenderKlasse M(4) aus Stahl fr Hebezeuge und den allgemeinen

Maschinenbau

"-
:.
British Standards Institution-
--.-

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 BS 6994 : 1988
Foreword
This British Standard has been prepared under the direction
of the Mechanical Handling Standards Committee.
This standard basically forms a revision of BS 3032 based
on metric units. It was decided that a new British Standard
number should be allocated to it, .e. BS 6994,and that it
should coexistwith BS 3032 which is based on imperial
units. BS 3032 will be reviewed in five years t o decide
whether it should then be withdrawn.
The long term aim is to have a rationalized list of shackles,
taking account of parallel K O * work published as
IS0 241 5-1 987, but notaligning with the IS0 Working
Load Limits.
Comparing the content of this British Standard with that
of IS0 2415 it is evident that the large dee and large bow
shackles comply with the IS0 dimensional requirements.
The small dee only complies in two instances (1.0 t and
2.5 t), and the remainder are outside the requirements for
jaw width ( W ) . None of the small bow shackles complies
with IS0 requirements. Some have working load limits that
do not comply and the remainder do not align with the
bow radius ( r ) requirements. The 1 .O t does not comply
with the jaw width requirements. These differences are
due to a degree of compromise in the I S 0 committee and
the realism and developmentof the UK market.
The other major differences betweenthis British Standard
and BS 3032 are that:
(a) the scope of this standard covers shacklesfor lifting
purposes;
(b) the designation of each type of shackle is based on
the working load limit (WLL)which is equivalent to
the maximum safe working load (SWL).
In this British Standard the clause covering materials
indicates two British Standards with associated designation
or group. If the purchaser has a preference for one or the
other he should indicatethis on his enquiry and order
(see 2.1 1.
* International Organization for Standardization.
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In this British Standard it is stated that, normally, shackles
will be supplied in the self-colour condition. However
should the purchaser require a special corrosion-resistant
finish he has a choice of either:
hot-dip galvanizing to BS 729
electroplated coatings of cadmium and zinc to
BS 1706, or
phosphate treatment to BS 3189.
Appendix B of this standard gives guidance on the selection
and use of shackles covered by this standard (not including
those covered in appendix D) and suitable for both lifting
and general engineering purposes.
Appendix C of this standard covers design notes and
dimensions of shackles that comply with the requirements
of this British Standard.
It is recognized that for some purposes, shackles outside
the dimensional range of this standard may have to be
specially designed.
Appendix D of this standard gives guidance on the design
criteria for such shackles. However in such cases it is
not permissible for such shackles to be marked or certified
as being 'in accordance with this British Standard'.
Appendix E of this standard gives guidance on the safe use
of those shackles which comply with all the requirements
of this standard.
In the development of this British Standard, accountwas
taken of the Report Ref. IR/L/ME/84/9 of the Health and
Safety Executive (-HSE)entitled 'Deformation tests on.
shackles' by Mr-T Wall (April 1984) in which it is stated in
the findings that the width of the jaw of a shackle ( W )
reduces before the internal length (S) increases.
Compliance with a British Standard does not of itself
confer immunity from legal obligations.
 Lb24bb7 0352247 b W
BS 6994 : 1988

0 Contents
Page Page

Foreword Inside front cover Tables

Committees responsible Back cover 1 Largedeeshackles 10
2 Small deeshackles 10
Specif ication 3 Largebowshackles 10
4 Small bow shackles 10
Section one.General 5 Proportions of shackles in terms of JWLL,
1,l Scope 2 (square root of WLL intonnes) 12
1.2 Definitions 2 6 Proportions of shackles in terms of d
1.3 Designation 2 body diameter 12
1.4 General 2
1.5 Marking 2 Figures
1.6 Certificate of t e s t and examination 3 1 Positions for marking of shackles and area for
hardness testing 6
Section two. Performance requirements 2 Dee shackle with pin type G 7
2.1 Material 4 3 Bow shackle with pin type G 7
2.2 Workmanship 4
0 2.3 Heat treatment
2.4 Hardness
4
4
4 Pin type G. Screwed pin with eye and collar
suitable for all sizes without restriction on
diameter D 8
2.5 Finish 4 5 Pin type H. Countersunk screwed pin with
2.6 Mechanical properties 4 slotted head. Limited to pins not exceeding
63 mm diameter (D) 8
Section three. Forms and dimensional 6 Pin type K. Countersunk screwed pin with
requirements sunk square socket head. Limited to pins not
3.1 Formsanddimensions 5 exceeding 63 mm diameter ( D ) 9
3.2 Tolerances on dimensions 5 7 Pin type L. Pin with hexagon head, hexagon nut
3.3 Tolerances on screw threads and nuts 5 and split cotter pin, limited to pins not
exceeding 85 mm diameter ( D ) 9
Appendices 8 Incorrect replacement of shackle pin 14
A Information to be supplied by the purchaser 9 Correct and incorrect use of shackles 14
on the enquiry and order 11 10 Use of loose spacers on shackle pin 15
B Selection and use of shackles 11 1 I Use of shackles to avoid pin unscrewing:
C Dimensions of shackles in the range specified example 1 15
in tables 1 to 6 12 12 Use of shackles to avoid pin unscrewing:
D Dimensions of shackles outside the dimensional example 2 16
range of BS 6994 13

e E Safe use of shackles 14

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 BSI B S * b 7 7 4
BS 6994 : 1988
Specification. Section one
Section one. General
1.1 Scope
This British Standard specifies requirements for
performance (section two) and dimensions (section three)
for four types of higher tensile steel shackles of grade M(4)
for lifting and general engineering purposes as follows.
Range
Shackle of Range of
tvw sizes (dl working
load l i m i t s
mm t the particular service conditions.
Large dee 1O to 1O0 0.8to 80
Small dee 10.5 to 71.5 1.O to 50
Large bow 10.5 to 105 0.8 to 80
Small bow 10.5 to 78 1.O to 50
This specification also covers the requirementsfor shackle
pins of the following types with which shackles are fitted
as appropriate:
Type G - Screwed pin with eye and collar
Type H - Countersunk screwed pin with slotted head
Type K - Countersunk screwed pin with sunk square
socket head
Type L - Pin with hexagon head, hexagon nut and
split cotter pin
Appendix A gives information to be supplied by the
purchaser on his enquiry and order.
Appendix B gives guidance on selection and usage of
shackles and appendix E gives guidance on their safe use.
Appendix C includes design notes and dimensions of
shackles which comply with this standard.
Appendix D, for information only, gives guidance on design
criteria for special shackles outside the dimensional range
of this standard. These special shackles cannot be marked
or certified as being in accordance with this British
Standard.
NOTE, The titles of the publications referred toin this standard
are listed on the inside back cover.
1.2 Definitions
For the purposes of this British Standard the following
definitions apply.
1.2.1 shackle. A component consisting of two readily
separable parts, the body and the pin.
1.2.2 body. One of the two parts of the shackle,
consisting of a bar of suitable section formed through an
appropriate angle and terminating in coaxial eyes.
1.2.3 eyes. Bosses on the ends of the body, with coaxial
holes through which the pin passes.
1.2.4 pin. A straight bar of circular section which passes
through the eyes, arranged so as to be secure when in
2
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position and which can be readily disassembled
(see figures 4, 5,6 and 7). ~-
1.2.5 competent person. A designated person qualified by
knowledge and practical experience which would:
(a) enable the testing and examination of shackles as
specified in 2.6.2 and E.3 to be carried out and any
defect to be located and evaluated in terms of possible
detrimental effect;
(b) enable the safe working load to be determined in
relation .to theworking load limit taking into account
1.2.6 safe working load (SWL). The maximum mass
(as certified by a competent person) which a shackle may
raise, lower or suspend in the particular service conditions.
The safe working load will normally be the same as the
working load limit, but it may be less.
1.2.7 working load limit (Wbb) (=maximum SWL). The
maximum mass which the shackle is designed to raise,
lower or suspend.
1.2.8 proof force. The force applied to a finished
shackle in a static tensil test.
1.2.9 breaking (or failure) force. The specified force
below which the shackle will not release the load during
the course of a tensile t e s t to destruction.
1.3 Designation
The designation of the shackle including the pin shall
include the following:
the number of this British Standard, .e. BS 6994
the word 'shackle'
grade M
the type of shackle
the type of pin
the working load limit (WLL) as specified in tables 1 to 4.
Example: BS 6994, shackle, M, large dee, type G,
10 t WLL.
1.4 General
All shackles shall comply with the relevant requirements
of 1.5 and 1.6 of this section, the performance
requirements of section two and the dimensional
requirements of section three.
1.5 Marking
1.5.1 Grade marking
Each shackle body and pin shall be marked in the positions
shown in figure 1, with the symbol 'M' enclosed in a circle
to indicate grade M (4).
No marks shall be positioned on the crown of the shackle,
.e. in the area cross-hatched in figures 1(a) and 1(b).
 BSI BS*b794 8 8 6!
1.5.2 Other marking
Each shackle body shall be permanently and legibly
marked with:
(a) the safe working load (SWL) in tonnes or, if below
1 tonne, in kilograms;
NOTE l . If no SWL is specified, the marking on the shackle
will be the SWL equal to the WLL.
NOTE 2. It is permissible for an SWL lower than the working
load limit (see1.2.7) to be marked if so stated by the purchaser
in his enquiry and order, e.g. for hazardous conditions.
(b) markings and symbols which indicate the following:
(1) the manufacturer of the shackle;
(2) the material and heat treatment batch;
(3) means o f identifying the shackle with the
manufacturer's certificate of test and examination
(see figure 1 and 1.6).
1.5.3 Care in marking
The marking shall be neither too sharp nor so deep that
any mechanical property is impaired.
1.5.4 Maximum size of marks
The maximum size of marks shall be as follows.
Diameter of material in Maximum size
shackle body d of marks
Up to and including 12.5
Over 12.5 up t o and including 25
Over 25
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BS 6994 . 1988
Section one
1.6 Certificate of test and examination
The manufacturer or supplier shall provide a certificate of
test and examination with each consignment of shackles
giving the following information:
(a) distinguishing mark (to enable any particular
shackle or batch of shackles in the consignment to be
identified to the same degree as specified in 1.5.2(b));
(b) designation of shackle and pin (see 1.3);
(c) the proof force applied (see tables 1 to 4);
(d) thesafe working load (see tables 1 to 4) marked on
shackle;
(e) number of shackles supplied;
(f) the finish applied if other than self colour.
The certificateof test and examination shall state that the
shackles comply in all respects with this standard. It shall
also state the name andaddress of the testing establishment
and the status of the signatory.
NOTE. The certificate of test and examination may be the
appropriate statutory form, available from HSE,provided the
required information is given (see also E.3).
3
 BS 6994 : 1988
Section two
Section two. Performance requirements
2.1 Material
Shackles shall be made from steel complying with either
of the following specifications and grades:
(a) BS 970 : Part 1, grade 150M19, controlled fine
grain size (5 to 8)determined in accordance with
method 1 of BS 4490;
or
(b) BS 2772 : Part2,grade 150M19. ,
NOTE. If the purchaser wishes to state a preference for one or
other of these steels this information should be included in the
enquiry and order. See appendix A.
2.2 Workmanship
The bodies of shackles shall be solid forgings without weld.
Pin holes in the bodies shall be drilled from the solid, or hot
pierced to notmore than two-thirds finished size, and in all
cases drilled or bored central to the outside diameter of the
eye. The holes in the finished shackle shall be in axial
alignment,
The pins shall be forged and machined, or machined from
bar. The screwed portion of the pin shall be concentric
with the plain portion of the pin.
All shackles shall be clean and suitably dressed.
All changes of section in the body and pin shall be
adequately radiused and smoothso that undue stress
concentrations are avoided.
Shackles havingforging laps or deep surface markings, etc.
which can create potential notches that become high risk
areas for fracture a t sub-zero temperatures shallbe rejected.
2.3 Heat treatment
The bodies and pins of each shackle shall be hardened and
tempered, as follows:
heated to a temperature between 860OC and 900 OC,
then quenched in oil or water and then tempered a t a
temperature between 550 "C and 660 O C .
2.4 Hardness
2.4.1 Hardness requirement
After heat treatment the bodies and pins of shackles shall
have a Brinell hardness in the range of 152 HB to 207 HB.
'The shackle or pin tested shall be representative of a batch
of material and heat treatment batch. If the preparation for
the hardness test weakens the shackle body or pin, it shall
be discarded.
2.4.2 Hardness testing
Where practicable, the hardness t e s t shall be made in
accordance with BS 240 using a 10 mm ball and a
force of 29 420 N. If another method is used,
conversion shall be made in accordance with BS 860.
The surface on which the impression is to be made shall be
obtained by filing, grinding or smooth machining and shall
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O
be prepared in such a way that the hardness is representative
of the material and is not affected by the preparation
method. The hardness impression shall be made in the area
shown in figure 1.
2.5 Finish
Shackles shall normally be supplied in the self-colour
condition, except when a special corrosion-resistantfinish
is required by the purchaser.
NOTE l . It is permissible for the purchaser to state on his enquiry
and order that he requires a special corrosion-resistant finish and to
specify one of the following:
hot-dip galvanizing to BS 729,
electroplated coatings of cadmium and zinc to BS 1706, or
phosphate treatment to BS 3189.
Where no such finish is requested by the purchaser, the manufacturer
will supply shackles in the self-colour condition (see appendix A).
O
The tolerances specified in 3.2 and 3.3 shall apply
after any finish has been applied.
NOTE 2. Any thread will be less resistant to corrosion than the
remainder of the shackle.
2.6 Mechanical properties
2.6.1 General
Shackles tested in accordance with 2.6.2 and 2.6.3 shall
have the force appliedaxially without shock to the crown
of the body, by a test machine fitting of diameter not
greater than the actual diameterof the shackle pin and to
the centre of the shackle pin by a t e s t machine fitting of
width not exceeding the actual diameter of the shackle pin.
The testing machine used for mechanical testing shall have
been verified in accordance with BS 1610 : Part 2 and
maintained within grade 2.0 as specified in BS 1610 : Part 1.
All tests shall be undertaken on shackles in the finished
condition, .e. after manufacture, heat treatment, machining
and any finish applied in accordance with 2.5.
O
2.6.2 Proof force
Each shackle shall be subjected to a proof force equivalent
to twice the working load limit given in tables 1 to 4
inclusive. After removal of the proof force, the shackle pin
shall show no permanent deformation and, after loosening,
shall turn freely and the actual dimension,S, of the shackle
(see figures 2 and 3) shall not have increased by more than
0.25 % or 0.5 mm, whichever is the greater.
After the proof load test, each shackle shall be thoroughly
examined by a competent person, and if found to be free
from visible flaw or defect or permanent s e t in excess of
that specified, shall be deemed to comply with this
requirement of this standard.
2.6.3 Minimum breaking (or failure) force
The manufacturer shall be able to demonstrate that a
representative sample of each shackle type has sustained
a force equivalentto not less than four times the working
load limit, as given in tables 1 to 4 inclusive, without
O
fracture or distortion to the extent that the shackle
becomes incapable of retaining the load.
__ ..
.-
 Section three. Forms and dimensional requirements

3.1 Forms and dimensions 3.2.4 Diameters of pin holes in shackles

The diameters of the pin holes in the bodies of the
The forms and dimensions of the shackles and pins shall be shackles (dimension D )shall be subject to the following
as given in tables 1 to 4 and appropriate figures and

t
tolerances.
shall be within the tolerances specified in 3.2.
Diameter D Tolerance

E
Shackle Table Figure references
reference mm
Body
Up toand including 20 mm +0.85
+0.05
2
2 Over 20 mm up to and including 45 mm +1.25
3 Either figure +0.05
3 Over 45 mm +1.85
+0.05
In the case of pin types H and K, the bodies of the shackles
r) are required to be countersunk to house the pin heads
3.2.5 Threaded length of pins
(see figures 5 and 6).
When pins of types G , H and K are screwed home, not
more than one full thread shall be visible in the jaw of
32Tolerances on dimensions the shackle.
3.2.1 General When a pin of type L is used in a shackle, the length of the
plain portion of the pin shall be such that the nut will jam
The tolerances on dimensions shall apply to finished
on the inner endof the thread and not on the eye of the
shackles after proof force testing (see 2.6.2).
shackle. .
3.2.2 Shackles
The dimensions of shackles with the exceptions of the 3.3 Tolerances on screw threads
and nuts
diameter of pins (see 3.2.31, pin holes (see 3.2.4) and
threaded length (see 3.2.5) shall not be less than the All screw threads shall be in accordance with BS 3643 :
dimensions given in tables 1 to 4 and shall not exceed them Part 2, coarse series with graded pitches, class 6H/6g.
by more than 5 % or 1 mm, whichever is the greater. In the case of pin type L, the hexagonal nut shall be a full
nut inaccordance with BS 3692.
3.2,3 Diameters of pins
The diameters of the pins (dimension D in figures 4 to 7
inclusive) shall be subject to the following tolerances.

Diameter D tolerance

mm
Up to and including 50 mm +O
-0.17
Over 50 mm +o
-0.37

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 BS 6994 : 1988
Section three

No markingonthe crown

Identificationmarks

*
reaforhardnesstest
on reverse side, either leg)

Grademark on
either end of pin

(a) Marking of dee shackles (large and small)

dentificationmarks

Safe working
l oArea
a d SWL and test
for hardness
(onreverseside,either I

Grademarkon
e i t h e r end of pin

(b) Marking of bow shackles (large and small)

Figure 1. Positions for marking of shackles and area for hardness testing
O

6
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 BS 6994 : 1988
Section three

NOTE l . All radii inthe body and pinare to be smooth to avoid undue stress
concentrations (see 2.21,
NOTE 2. Alternative pins are shown in figures 5 t o 7 inclusive.

Figure 2. Dee shackle (see tables 1 and 2) with pin type G (see figure 4)

1 -

P
NOTE l . All radii i n the body and pin are t o be smooth to avoid undue stress
concentrations (see 2.2).
NOTE 2. Alternative pins are shown in figures 5 t.0 7 inclusive.

Figure 3. Bow shackle (see tables 3 and 4) with pin type G (see figure 4)
"

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 BS 6994 : 1988
Section three

w+2 d
0.25 D
* k

0.15 D

Figure 4. Pin type G. Screwed pin with eye and collar

suitable for all sizes without restriction on diameter D

w+2d

I
I
r 0.15 D
90

NOTE. The body of the shackle is required to be countersunk

t o house this pin (see 3.1).

Figure 5. Pin type H. Countersunk screwed pin with

slotted head. Limited to pins not exceeding 63 mm
diameter ( D )

8
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 BS 6994 : 1988
Section three

W+ 2d
CI

9 O0

Il
O 0.50D + 0.75

NOTE. The body of the shackle is required to be countersunk

to house this pin (see 5.1).

Figure 6. Pin type K. Countersunk screwed pin with

sunk square socket head. Limited to pins not
exceeding 63 mm diameter ( D )

W+ 2d
I

Figure 7 . Pin type L. Pin with hexagon head,

hexagon nut and split cotter pin, limited to pins
not exceeding 85 mm diameter ( D )

. . .

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 BS 6994 : 1988
Section three

Table 1. Large dee shackles Table 3. Large bow shackles

-
WLL d W S D e WLL d W S D e 2r
-. - -
tonnes mm mm mm mm mm tonnes mm mm mm mm mm mm
0.8 10.5 19 42 14 28 0.8 10.5 18 47 14 28 28
1.25 13 23 52 16 32 1.25 13 21 59 16 32 34
2.0 16.5 29 66 20 40 2.0 16.5 30 74 20 40 44
3.2 20 38 80 24 48 3.2 20 36 92 24 48 50
4.0 22.5 42 90 27 54 4.0 22.5 41 104 27 54 57
5.0 25.5 48 102 30 60 5.0 25.5 48 119 30 60 67
6.3 28.5 54 114 33 66 6.3 28.5 52 131 33 66 74
8.0 32 59 128 36 72 8.0 32 59 146 36 72 83
10.0 36.5 67 146 42 84 10.0 36.5 66 164 42 84 97
12.5 39.5 75 168 48 96 12.5 42 72 185 48 96 1o9
16.0 45 84 180 52 104 16.0 45 83 207 52 104 115
20.0 51 96 204 59 118 20.0 51 94 234 59 118 135
32.0 64 121 256 75 150 32.0 64 118 293 75 150 166
40.0 71.5 135 286 83 166 40.0 71.5 132 328 83 166 185
50.0 78 150 312 91 182 50.0 85 152 382 91 182 226
63.0 90 173 360 102 204 63.0 95 170 427 102 204 253
80.0 1O0 193 400 116 232 80.0 105 191 472 116 232 280
- -

Table 2. Small dee shackles

r
WLL
I
Table 4. Small bow shackles
1 d W S D e
WLL d W S D e
tonnes mm mm mm mm mm mm
tonnes mm mm mm mm mm 1.o 10.5 16 44 14 28 22
1.o 10.5 16 38 14 28 1.25 13 21 51 16 32 30
1.6 13 19 46 16 32 2.0 16.5 29 62 20 40 37
2.5 16.5 25 58 20 40 3.2 20 36 78 24 48 46
4.0 20 30 74 24 48 4.0 22.5 39 88 27 54 53
5.0 22.5 34 81 27 54 25.5
5.5 45 1O0 30 60 60
6.3 25.5 39 92 30 60 7.0 28.5 50 112 33 66 67
8.0 28.5 42 103 33 66 8.0 32 56 124 36 72 74
10.0 32 48 115 39 78 11.0 36.5 63 140 42 84 84
12.5 36.5 55 130 42 84 12.5 39.5 70 156 48 96 93
16.0 42 62 148 48 96 17.5 45 79 176 52 104 105
20.0 45 65 162 52 104 22.0 51 88 196 59 118 117
25.0 51 78 184 59 118 35.0 64 112 248 75 150 148
40.0 64 99 234 75 150 44.0 71.5 126 280 83 166 168
50.0 71.5 108 257 83 166 50.0 78 141 312 91 182 187
-

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 BS 6994 : 1988
Appendices A and B

Appendices

Appendix A. Informationto be supplied by e preferred material specification and grade o'f

the purchaser onthe enquiry and order
The following information is to be supplied by the
purchaser and fully documented. Both the definitive
requirements specified throughout this standard and the
following documented items shall be satisfied before a
claim of compliance can be made and verified.
The enquiry and order shall include:
(a) the number of this British Standard, .e. BS 6994;
(b) the number of shackles required;
(c) the type and designation of shackle including the
pin required (see 1.3);
steel if required (see 2.1);
(e! special requirements, e.g. it is permissiblefor an
SWL lower than the working load limit tobe marked
provided this is so stated by the purchaser on his
enquiry and order for, for example, hazardous conditions.
(See 1.5.2.)
NOTE, If no lower SWL is specified, the marking on the
shackle will be SWL equal to the WLL.
(f) the preferred. finish; if the purchaser does not
indicate a particular finishas specified in 2.5 and state
his-requirementon the enquiry and order the
manufacturer will supply shackles in the self colour
condition.

Appendix B. Selection and use of shackles

The following guidance is given on the selection and use of shackles coveredby this British Standard. Each shackletype
is suitable for lifting and general engineering purposes.

Type of Notes
shackle

Large dee A large dee shackle is a gzneral purpose component for lifting and other usage, However large dee
(table 1) shackles are not suitable for use:
(a) with more than onewire rope* and thimble" combination which is a t the maximum
permissible dimensions andof the same working load limit as the shackle;
(b) with the eye of hooks* for use with chain* of the same working load limit, as the pin of the
shackle is too large to be accepted.

Small dee A small dee shackle has moderate internal clearances in the body and jaw, but a working load limit
(table 2) higher than that of a large dee shackle havingthe same dimension d.
Small dee shackles are not suitable for use with hooks* as:
(a) the body of a hook of the same working load limit willnot enter the shackle; and
(b) the eye of'a hook for use with chain' of the same working load limit will notaccept the pin
of the shackle as it is too large.
Small dee shackles are suitable for use with eyebolts*, egg links and the head fittings of ships' blocks
(BS MA 47) and may accept a single wire rope* and thimble* combinationof the same working load
limit provided that the width of the thimble is not close to the maximum permissible dimensions.

Large bow Compared with a large dee shackle, a large bow shackle has ample internal clearances in the body
(table 3) and jaw.

Small bow A small bow shackle has moderate internal clearances in the body and jaw but a working load limit
(table 4) higher than that of the large bow shackle having the same dimension d. Small bow shackles are
suitable for use with the bodies of hooks* of the same working load limit, but the hook will rest on
i t s shoulders. However small bow shackles are not suitable for use with the eye of a hook* for use
with chain* of the same working load limit, as the eye will notaccept the pin of the shackle as it is
too large.
The bow is too small to accept more than one wire rope* and thimble* combination of the same
working load limit, and the internal length of the shackle is insufficient to accept both a hook* and
a wire rope and thimble combination of the same working load limit and having the maximum
permissible dimensions.

* In accordance with the relevant British Standards.

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 BS 6994 : 1988
Appendix C

Appendix C. Dimensionsof shackles inthe

range specified in tables 1 to 6
C.l The proportions of shackles designed to and complying
with this standard are given in table 5 in terms of square
root of the WLL in tonnes.
NOTE, The formulae given in this appendix are applicable only to
shackles conforming to the requirements of this standard.

Table 5. Proportions of shackles in terms of

JWLL (square root of WLL in tonnes)
d D W S e 2r

Large
11.35
13.27
dee 21.21
45.60
26.54 -

Small dee 10.21

11.98 15.34
36.70
23.96 -
Large bow
11.53
13.05 20.75
52.39
26.10
30.13

Small bow
11 .O3 12.68 19.13
43.19
25.36
25.50

where
d is the body diameter of shackle (in mm);
D is the pin diameter (in mm);
W is the internal jawwidth of shackle (in mm);
S i s the internal length of shackle (in mm);
e is the diameter of the eyes of the shackle (in mm);
r is the internal radius of the bow shackle (in mm).

C.2 The proportions of the shackles designed to and

complying with this standard are given in table 6 in
terms of the diameter (u') of the material in the body.

Table 6. Proportions of shackles in terms of d

(body diameter)

d D W S e 2r

Large dee 1.O0 1. I 7 1.87 4.02 2.34 -

Small dee 1.00 1.17 1.50 3.59 2.34 -

Large bow 1.00 1.13 1.80 4.54 2.26 2.61

Small bow 1.00 1.15 -1.73 3.91 2.30 2.31

The actual dimensions given in tables 1 to.4 have been

obtained from the exact calculations by rounding to
account for availability of steel barsizes and by normal
mathematical rounding.
The values in tables 5 and 6 have been obtained from the
dimensions in tables 1 to 4 by averaging. Therefore,
because of the rounding, the dimensions in tables 1 to 4
do not always comply precisely with the averages in
tables 5 and 6.

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L
 Appendix D. Dimensionsof shackles
outside the dimensional rangeof BS 6994
NOTE. Shackles which are outside the dimensional range of
BS 6994, given in tables 1 to 6 cannot be marked or certified as
being in accordance with this British Standard.
D.l Shackles outside the range specified in tables 1 to 6
may be designed, when required, using the formulae1 and 2.
The pin and body are treated separately. The criteria (a)
to (g) should always be obeyed.
(a) The diameter of the material of the body d should
not be less than 10 mm nor exceed 90 mm.
(b) The diameter of the pin D should not be less than
12 mm nor exceed 110 mm.
(c) The diameter of the material of the body d should
not be.less than the value obtained from formula (1).
(dl The diameter of the pin D should not be less than
the value determined from formula (21, multiplied by
the correction factorin D.3, for d less than 25 mm.
(e) When the shackle body dis less than 25 mm in size,
the diameter D of the pin should be multiplied by the
correction factorin D.3.
(f) In no case should the pin diameter D be less than
the body diameter d.
(9) I n no case should the measurement across the eye e
be less than 20.
D.2 Formula for the bodies of shackles
d = 36.0 [F] -
rw
-
9s
where
W is the working load limit (intonnes);
W is the internal jaw width (in mm);
d is the body diameter of shackle (in mm);
D is the pin diameter (in mm);
r is the internal radius of the bow (in mm);
S is the internal length of shackle (in mm);
f is the nominal extreme fibre stress a t working load limit
= 400 N/mm2 for bow shackles
= 320 N/mm2 for dee shackles.
For a dee shackle, it will be noted that2r= W.
The above formula is valid for the following ranges of
dimensions:
2.5~ - r
G 6.5
0 . 5 ~- 1.0
r
G
W
0.4 G -d 0.75
W
Q
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D.3 Formula for the pins of shackles
D=29.4 [ W ( w+ ] d)
where the notation and units are as for formula (1)
except that:
f = 400 N/mm2 for all shackles
The above formulae originated a t the National Physical
Laboratory. They enable d and D to be obtained given
the internal dimensions ( W , r and S), the working load
limit W and the design stress f of the shackle.
As an example, consider the following bow shackle:
W=lOt
W = 100 mm
r =75mm
S = 250mm
f = 400 N/mm2
Formula (1) gives d = 41 .O6 mm
Formula (2) gives D = 44.75 mm.
Formulae (1) and (2) are based on the condition where the
load is a t the centre of the pin and the reactions are taken
a t the centre of the length of the holes.
In designing shackles below 25 mm nominal size, the
diameter of pin, D , obtained from formula (2) should,
for practical reasons, be multiplied by a correction factor.
The correction factor forthe values of D for dee shackles is
I+ &
7
(25 - dl
and for the values of D for bow shackles is
18
I + - (25 - ~)
1500
These factors represent increases in D of 7 % and 18 %
for d = 10 mm respectively for dee and bow shackles. Both
factors reduce linearly to O % for d = 25 mm.
These factors only apply to the shackles having the shapes
and proportions specified in tables 1 to 6 inclusive.
I f the value 2r/d exceeds the values for bow shacklesin the
tables then higher factors may be required, in which case a
competent person should be consulted.
The formulae give dimensions of shackles suitable for
normal conditions of service. For hazardous conditions,
shackles should be designed for a reduced nominal extreme
fibre (tensile) stress.
NOTE. These formulae are applicable only to shackles conforming
(except in their dimensions) to the requirements of this standard.
 BS 6994 : 1988
Appendix E

Appendix E. Safe use of shackles E.1.5 It is important in the case of shackles fitted with a
bolt, nut and split cotter pin (type L, figure 7) that the
E . l Assembly length of the plain portion of the bolt is such that the nut
will jam on the inner end of the thread and not on the
E . l . l Shackles should be inspected before use to ensure
eyes of the shackle, thus leaving the bolt free to rotate,
that:
and that the nut and bolt are cross drilled for a split cotter
(a) the body of the shackle and the pin are both pin when in this position.
identifiable as being of the same quality grade;
E.2 Usage
(b) all markings are readable;
(c) the pin is of the correct type; E.2.1 Select the correct type of shackle for a particular
application from the information given in appendix B and
(d) the threads of the pin and the body are undamaged;
the following subclauses E.2.2 to E.2.6 inclusive.
(e) the shackle and pin are not distorted;
E.2.2 Shackles should be fitted tothe load in a manner
(f) the shackle and pin are not unduly worn;
that ailows the shackle body to take the load in a true line
(9) the shackle and pin are free from nicks, gouges, along i t s centreline; and not insuch a way that bending
cracks and corrosion, loads are induced, other than those for which the shackle
E.1.2 Ensure, where appropriate, that the pin is correctly is designed. See figure 9.
screwed into the shackle eye, .e. tighten finger tight, then
lock using a small tommy bar or suitable tool so that the
collar of the pin is fully seated on the shackle eye. Ensure
that the pin is of the correct length so that it penetrates the
full depth of the screwed eye and allows the collar of the
pin tobed on the surface of the drilled eye.
E.1.3 Incorrect seating of the pin may be due to a bent
pin, too tight fitting thread or misalignmentof pin holes,
Do not use the shackle under these circumstances, but
refer the matter to a competent person.
E.1.4 Never replace a shackle pin with a bolt, other than
one designed for the purpose, as it may not be suitable for Incorrect
the loads imposed. See figure 8.

Never replace a
shackle pin with
a bolt

Correct

The load will

bend the bolt

Figure 8. Incorrect replacement of shackle pin

Figure 9. Correct and incorrect use of shackles

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 BS 6994 : 1988
Appendix E

E.2.3 When using shacklesin conjunction with multi-leg
slings, due consideration shouldbe given to the effect of
the angle between the legs of the sling. As the angle
increases so does the load in the sling Leg and consequently
in any shackle attached to that leg. (See BS 6166 : Part 3).
E.2.4 To avoid eccentric loadingof the shackle a loose
spacer may be used on either end of the shackle pin (see
figure IO) or a shackle with a smaller jaw width should be
used, Do not reduce the width between the shackle jaws
by welding washers or spacers to the inside faces of the
eyes or by closing thejaws, as this will have an adverse
effect on the properties of the shackle.
E.2.5 When a shackle is used to secure the top block of a
set of rope blocks the load on this shackle is increased by
the value of the'hoisting effort.
E.2.6 Avoid applications where due to movement (e.g. of
the load or the rope) the shackle pin can roll and possibly
unscrew. (See figures 11 and 12.)
E.3 Inspection
Shackles in use should be subject to thorough examination
by a competent person a t least every 6 months.

Incorrect - Shackle pin

Incorrect bearing on running line
can work loose.

Hook-".,

Packing

Correct Correct - Shackle

pin cannot turn.
Figure IO. Use of loose spacers on shackle pin
Figure 1'1. Use of shackles to avoid
pin unscrewing : example 1

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 BS 6994 : 1988
Appendix E

Incorrect - If the load shifts the

sling will unscrew the shackle pin.

Correct - Use two ropes with eyesas required

by Construction Lifting Operations Regulations
1961 37(2)(a).

Figure 12. Use of shackles to avoid pin unscrewing :

example 2

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Standards
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 B S I BSX6991.1 B A M 1621.1663 01B151.13 I

Publications referred to
BS 240 Methodfor Brinell hardnesstestand for verificationofBrinell hardness testing machines- .
~

BS 729 Specification for hot dipgalvanized coatings on iron and steel articles
BS 860 Tables for comparison of hardness scales
BS 970 Specification for wrought steels for mechanical and aMed engineering purposes
Part 1 General inspE%t!on and te?t.ing procedures and spec~ficre~c&r~~e~ts foc carbon, carbqn-manganese, alloy and stainless steels
BS 1610 Materials testing machines and force verification equipment
Part 1 Specification for the grading of the forces appliedby materials testingmachines
Part 2 Specification for the grading of equipment used for the verification of the forces applied by materials testing
machines
BS 1706 Specification for electroplated coatings of cadmium and zinc on iron and steel
BS 2772 Colliery haulage andwinding equipment
BS 3032* Specification for higher tensile steel shackles
BS 31 89 Specification for phosphate treatment of iron and steel
BS 3643 ISO-metric screw threads
.~

Part 2 Specification for selectedlimits ofsize

BS 3692 Specification for I S 0 metric precision hexagon bolts, screws and nuts. Metric units
BS 4490 Methods for the determination of the austenitic grainsize f steel
BS 61 66 Lifting slings
Part 3 Guide t o the selection and safeuse of lifting slings for multi-purposes -. - -

BS MA 47 Code of practice for ships' cargo blocks

IR/L/ME/84/9* Report of the Health and Safety Executive 'Deformationtests on shackles' by T Wall (April 1984)
I S 0 2415* Forged shackles for general lifting purposes - Dee shackles and bow shackles

-
Referred
to.
-in the
foreword
only. . ..

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This British Standard, having been prepared under the direction of
the Mechanical Handling Standards Committee, was published
under the authority of the Board of BSI and comes into effect on
31 October 1988
O British Standards Institution, 1988
ISBN O 580 16737 2
The following BSI references relate to the work on this standard:
Committee reference MHE/I Draft for comment 86176024 DC
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the independent national body for the preparation of British
Standards. It is the UK member of the International Organization
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subsists in all BSI publications. No part of this publication may be
reproduced in any form without the prior permission in writingof
BSI. This does not preclude the free use, in the course of
Committees responsible for this British Standard
The preparation of this British Standard was entrusted by the
Mechanical Handling Standards Committee (MHE/-) to Technical
Committee MHE/I, upon which the following bodies were
represented:
Associated Offices Technical Committee
British Chain Manufacturers' Association
British Forging Industry Association
British Ports Association and the National Association of Ports
Employers
British Railways Board
British Steel Industry
Chain Testers Association of Great Britain
Corporation of Trinity House
Department of Trade and Industry (National Physical Laboratory)
Amendments issued since publication
Arnd. No. ofDate issue Text affected
British Standards Institution 2 Park Street London W I A 2BS Telephone 01-629 9000 -
8810-7-2.5k-B
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BS6994:1988
implementing the standard, of necessary details such as symbols and
size, type or grade designations. Enquiries should be addressed to
the Publications Manager, BSI, Linford Wood, Milton Keynes
MK14 6LE. The number for telephone enquiries is 0908 220022
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Standards are responsible for their correct application.
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when making use of a British Standard, encounters an inaccuracy or
ambiguity, is requested to notify BSI without delay in order that
the matter may be investigated and appropriate action taken.
Federation of Wire Rope Manufacturers of Great Britain
Health and Safety Executive
Lloyds Register of Shipping
Ministry of Defence
The following bodies were also representedin the drafting of the
standard, through subcommittees and panels:
Association of Supervisory and Executive Engineers
Drop Forging Research Association
Electricity Supply Industry in England and Wales
Engineering Equipment and Materials Users' Association
Federation of Manufacturers of Construction Equipment and
Cranes
Telex 266933
MHEII
- .?