As a rule, all plates over 50 kg mass must have lifting holes. If possible, lifting holes should be located so that they are not covered by other components and can be used for lifting even after the plate is partly or completely assembled.
Attention to these rules is particularly important if the applied load approaches the rating of the eye bolt.
- Eye bolts must never be ground, machined, stamped, or marked with a sharp tool or instrument.
- The receiving threaded hole should be countersunk and/or counterbored, or a spacer washer should be used. Ensure that at least 90% of the threads are engaged in the threaded hole.
- Ensure that the eye bolt is screwed down all the way and is properly seated. The shoulder should bear firmly against the mating plate surface or a spacer washer.
- Loads should always be applied in the plane of the eye, not at an angle to this plane.
- Never exceed the recommended capacity of the eye bolt.
- Do not paint, plate, or galvanize an eye bolt. This could easily hide flaws and/or affect fits.
- An inspection program for eye bolts should be established and implemented on an ongoing basis. To ensure safety, all such equipment must be regularly checked for possible stress signs, cracks and wear. Each item should be identified by number, type, etc., and a report on its state be made periodically. Questionable items must be discarded, not repaired.
These rules are particularly important .