Eye bolts are effective for different functions, such as lifting, rigging, and anchorages, among many others. They come in a wide range, each of them having a distinct design for specific functions that are determined by their shape, size, and weight.
Here, in this guide, we will be looking at the different varieties of eye bolts and knowing their uses too, helping you to make the correct choice while using them.
Understanding of Eye bolts
Eye bolts are crucial elements employed in load lifting, running rigging, and tying down operations such as straight vertical lift, angular lift, and vertical lift. They are available in an assortment of types, including plain pattern eye bolts, shoulder pattern, collared eye screws, large, swivel, shouldered eye bolt type machinery, rod and nut ends, and wire eye bolts, which serve specific purposes. When trying to choose the correct eye bolt, it is important to be aware of the different types, and knowing what’s right can help one to be safe and efficient.
What is Eye bolts?
Eye bolts are types of fasteners with a threaded shaft and a circular loop or loop that resembles an “eye” in one part. They serve as the primary anchorage or connection devices for activities like lifting, rigging, and others where a reliable link is necessary. There are several kinds of eye bolts; among them are plain shoulder, collar shoulder, screw collar, screw lag, swivel shoulder type machinery, rod end, wire nut, and other kinds that are specified according to their sizes, such as lift angle, vertical lifts, lifting or securement point materials, and shapes for the purpose for which they are made.
Differences in design between different types of eye bolt
Here’s a table summarizing the differences in design between different types of eye bolts, along with pictures for each type:
Plain Pattern Eye Bolt
Such a lace design has a straight shank at its top, in which two sides of the basic shank length meet at one end somehow in the form of a loop. It is less complex in structure, and it can have generalized uses for lifting and rigging.
Shoulder Pattern Eye Bolts
Bobbin chukers can be mounted in one of two ways, such as shoulder-pattern eye bolts, where there is a shoulder between the shank and the eye. This style creates a stronger connection with a specific tightness; thus, it’s best suited for industrial lifting.
Collared Eye Bolt
Collared eye bolts have a collar or shoulder underneath the eye. technologies applicable to the given industry: smart grids, artificial intelligence, virtual reality, 3D printing, drones, and nanotechnology. The collar acts as a guide during the installation, preventing the bolt from getting through the installation hole or installing machinery eye bolts.
Screw-eye bolts
In addition to the eye bolt having a screwed shank that threads, it can also be screwed into a previously drilled threaded hole or a wooden surface. They are made particularly for hanging things like small pictures or paintings, or for short-term purposes.
Lag Eye Bolts
Lag eye bolts come with a shank that features a lag screw thread, so they get inserted into wood by screwing. These types of hooks are most frequently attached to beams, carrying the weight of lamps and other light objects.
Swivel Eye Bolt
Loops in swivel eye bolts are rotating, which is helpful in case of an item rotation. It solves the problem of cable or rope twisting while it is in use in the rigging application, and the load may be rotating.
Shoulder Type Machinery Eye Bolt
These eye-bolts have the shoulder on top of the eye, adding a bigger area for the full strength of the bolt to be used. This block-type design enables them to perform a heavier-duty task than regular eye bolts of ordinary pattern or regular nut eye bolts.
Rod End Eye Bolt
The short threaded shank with a loop in one end and a ball in the other end is one of the features of rod-end eye bolts. This design is able to produce a pivoting or self-articulating capability, which makes it great for applications where movement is a factor.
Nut Eye Bolt
Nut eye bolts comprise a shank, the thread of which minutes up at one end and vees a nut at another end. Using this design, a bolt will be used, which is to be threaded or tapped into holes with a nut that offers tight and secure locking.
Wire Eye Bolt
Hook-eye bolting is made from a solid axle of wire that is bent into a ring with a threaded shank. The design impairs their speed and makes them suitable for light-duty task handling and rigging.
The Parts of an Eye Bolt
An eye-bolt is an assembly having several constituting members, each participating in the design and operation of the bolt’s function. Through this knowledge, the selection of the best eye bolt threads for your project is easier, and the installation of such a device makes sure that there are no possible problems. Here are the main parts of an eye bolt:
Knowing about the components of galvanized eye bolts helps you pick the right one for your application and also achieve a secure and reliable application. The hot-dip galvanized finish provides a corrosion-resistant zinc coating.
| part | description | Picture reference |
| Shank | The straight, cylindrical portion of the eye bolt that extends from the base of the eye to the tip. It is threaded for installation into a surface or object. |  |
| Eye | The looped or circular portion at the top of the eye bolt. It provides a secure anchor point for attaching ropes, cables, or other hardware. |  |
| Thread | The helical ridge that wraps around the shank of the eye bolt. It is used to secure the eye bolt into a threaded hole or surface. |  |
| Shoulder | Some eye bolts have a shoulder between the shank and the eye providing additional strength and stability, especially in heavy-duty applications. |  |
| Collar | In collared eye bolts, there is a collar or shoulder below the eye. The collar serves as a guide during installation and prevents the eye bolt from being pulled through the mounting hole. |  |
| Nut | Nut eye bolts have a nut at the opposite end of the eye. The nut is used to secure the eye bolt in place and provide additional strength and stability. |  |
| Swivel | Swivel eye bolts have a swivel mechanism between the eye and the shank, allowing the attached item to rotate freely, preventing twisting of ropes or cables. |  |
What types of eye bolts can be used for angular loading?
When it comes to applications that require angular loading, choosing the proper type of eye bolt is of utmost importance to minimize safety and sustain efficiency. Shearing force is present when the force exerted on the eyebolt is not labeled on the shank diameter, which leads to further stress on the said eyebolt. Here are some types of eye bolts that can be used for angular loading:
Shoulder-eye bolts
The eye holes are located on the thickest part of an eyebolt, which is the shoulder of the bolt. This type of architecture has a serial connection, providing a secure connection and increased strength, and is able to work with angular loads.
Swivel Eye Bolts
This device has a swivel interconnection corresponding to the hook and the shank. It, therefore, enables the connected pin to rotate freely, thus reducing the chances of the coupling part failing due to pure or angular loading.
Shoulder Type Machinery Eye Bolt
These thimbles have the non-shouldered eye bolts representing the eye part, and the upper eye has a bigger bearing surface, thus providing more strength than usual. They are suitable, especially for operations that demand an angular load.
Rod End Eye Bolt
The rod end eye bolts have a machined ball on one side, which allows the ball to move through the range of motion and flexibility directions. These fastening systems are the right choice to use there, where bolts should rotate or twist to align their direction with the pulses of the load.
Nut Eye Bolt
A nut eye bolt has a nut at a separate end of the eye, resulting in a screwless joint that strengthens the connection. They are the ideal type for angular cases when correctly installed and secured.
How do I use each eye bolt?
Here’s a table summarizing how to use each type of eye bolt:
| Type | Description | Usage |
| Plain Pattern Eye Bolt | Features a straight shank with a loop at one end. It is used for general lifting and rigging applications where moderate loads are involved. | Attach a lifting sling or hook to the eye and ensure the bolt is securely fastened to the load-bearing surface. |
| Shoulder Pattern Eye Bolt | Has a shoulder between the shank and the eye, providing a more secure connection. Ideal for heavy-duty lifting applications. | Use in applications where heavy loads will be lifted and a secure connection is required. Ensure the shoulder rests against the load-bearing surface for maximum strength. |
| Collared Eye Bolt | Features a collar or shoulder below the eye, guiding installation and preventing the bolt from being pulled through the mounting hole. | Install the bolt with the collar against the mounting surface and tighten securely. Use in applications where the bolt may be subject to pulling forces. |
| Screw Eye Bolt | Has a threaded shank that allows it to be screwed into a threaded hole or wood. | Screw the bolt into the desired surface or object and ensure it is securely fastened. Use in applications where a temporary or semi-permanent attachment is needed. |
| Lag Eye Bolt | Features a threaded shank with a lag screw thread for screwing into wood or other soft materials. | Screw the bolt into the wood or soft material, ensuring it is securely fastened. Use in applications where items need to be hung from wooden structures. |
| Swivel Eye Bolt | Has a rotating loop that allows the attached item to rotate freely, preventing rope or cable twisting. | Attach the item to the eye and ensure it can rotate freely to prevent twisting of ropes or cables. Use in rigging applications where the load may rotate. |
| Shoulder TypeMachinery Eye Bolt | Features a shoulder under the eye, providing a larger bearing surface and allowing it to handle heavier loads compared to plain pattern eye bolts. | Use in heavy-duty lifting applications where a larger bearing surface and increased load capacity are required. Ensure the shoulder rests against the load-bearing surface. |
| Rod End Eye Bolt | Has a threaded shank with a loop at one end and a machined ball at the other end, allowing it to pivot or articulate. | Use in applications where the bolt needs to pivot or articulate to accommodate movement. Ensure the ball end is securely fastened to prevent it from coming loose. |
| Nut Eye Bolt | Features a threaded shank with a loop at one end and a nut at the other end, allowing it to be secured with a nut for a strong and secure connection. | Screw the bolt into the desired surface, place a nut on the threaded end, and tighten securely. Use in applications where a strong and secure connection is required. |
| Wire Eye Bolt | Made from a single piece of wire bent into a loop with a threaded shank. | Screw the bolt into the desired surface, place a nut on the threaded end, and tighten securely. Use in applications where a strong and secure connection is required. |
Knowing the practicalities of how to use the distinct types of eye bolts is paramount to securing the safety and success of lifting, rigging, and anchoring operations.
Custom Specifications and Considerations for Eye Bolts
For individual applications, eye bolt custom specifications might be needed, as not always stock eye bolts are capable of bringing in the expected results. Here are some considerations for customizing eye bolts:
- Material: Select a material that you think would work well with the intended nutritional applications, e.g., for corrosion resistance, stainless steel eye bolts could be used or high-strength steel for heavy-duty purposes, such as carbon steel eye bolts.
- Thread Length: This includes having enough thread engaged while considering the thickness of the material being secured.
- Thread Size: Choose the right thread size in accordance with the load and mounting hole size or nut.
- Shank Length: This allows you to adjust the length so it will engage with the mounting surface while having enough clearance for the eye to turn properly.
- Eye Size and Shape: Adjust the size and shape of the eye, giving it the capability to take up the space for its inclusion as a hardware unit and to make sure of a proper load distribution.
- Shoulder or Collar: It is better to plug an opening with a collar or a nozzle to avoid bolts being pulled out of the mounting tapped hole into the shoulder eye bolt.
- Surface Finish: Based on the application, pick the correct type of surface finish that will be a good choice for the environment, for example, zinc plating for corrosion resistance or black oxide coating for aesthetics.
- Load Rating: Make the custom eye bolt strong enough to manage the load requirements the application is approved for.
- Certifications: If it is necessary, ensure that the custom eye anchor matches the certifications and standards of the industry, i.e., ASTM or DIN standards.
- Special Features: Discover other functionalities, like the possibility of rotating parts or locking them, across needs and applications.
By customizing eyebolts to different specifications, you can ensure their safety and proper use in multiple lifting eye bolts, rigging, and anchoring actions.
Application’s requirements
Here’s a table summarizing the application’s requirements for eye bolts:
| Requirement | Description |
| Load Capacity | Determine the maximum load the eye bolts will need to support. Choose bolts with a suitable load rating to ensure they can safely handle the intended loads. |
| Environmental Conditions | Consider the environment in which the eye bolts will be used, including factors such as temperature and exposure to corrosive substances. Choose materials and finishes that can withstand these conditions. |
| Mounting Surface | Ensure that the mounting surface is strong enough to support the load. For weaker materials, such as wood or drywall, consider using anchors or reinforcement plates. |
| Angle of Loading | If the load will be applied at an angle to the eye bolt, consider using shoulder or swivel eye bolts designed to handle angular loads. |
| Frequency of Use | Determine how often the eye bolts will be used and whether they will be subjected to frequent adjustments or movements. Choose bolts that are durable enough to withstand the intended frequency of use. |
| Regulatory Requirements | Check if there are any regulatory requirements or industry standards that specify the type of eye bolts to be used for certain applications. Ensure that the chosen eye bolts comply with these requirements. |
| Safety Considerations | Always prioritize safety when selecting and installing eye bolts. Ensure that they are properly installed and inspected regularly for signs of wear or damage. Choose bolts that have safety features such as shoulder patterns or swiveling mechanisms, if needed for the application. |
Taking into account these issues may give you a sense of the appropriate eye bolts as you select the right ones for your application to work safely and effectively.
Eye Bolt Materials
During the process of picking the best material for your angular lifting and gripping applications, you must focus on quality to guarantee your safety and the reliability of your operation. Here are some common materials used for eye bolts and their key characteristics:
| Material | Description | Common Uses |
| Stainless Steel | Corrosion-resistant and durable, suitable for outdoor and marine applications. | Marine hardware, outdoor structures, food processing equipment. |
| Carbon Steel | Strong and cost-effective, but prone to corrosion. Can be galvanized for improved corrosion resistance. | General construction, industrial machinery, automotive applications. |
| Alloy Steel | High strength and toughness, often heat-treated for improved mechanical properties. | Lifting and rigging applications, heavy machinery, construction equipment. |
| Brass | Corrosion-resistant and aesthetically pleasing, but not as strong as steel. | Decorative applications, electrical fittings, marine hardware. |
| Aluminum | Lightweight and corrosion-resistant, but not as strong as steel. | Aerospace, automotive, recreational equipment. |
| Titanium | Extremely strong and lightweight, with excellent corrosion resistance. | Aerospace, medical implants, high-performance sports equipment. |
| Galvanized Steel | Carbon steel coated with a layer of zinc for improved corrosion resistance. | Outdoor structures, fencing, utility hardware. |
| Nylon | Non-metallic, lightweight, and corrosion-resistant. Not as strong as metal eye bolts. | Light-duty applications, DIY projects, temporary installations. |
| Bronze | Durable and corrosion-resistant, suitable for marine environments. | Marine hardware, artistic installations, historical restoration. |
| Plastics | Non-metallic, lightweight, and corrosion-resistant. Can be reinforced for added strength. | Light-duty applications, electrical installations, marine use. |
Whenever you are looking to acquire a suitable material for your eye bolts, it is important to think about the requirements of your application in detail, such as the environment, the lifting capacity, and the strength, such as alloy eye bolts, body bolts, and ring bolts. Due to the fact that each material has its own advantages and deficiencies, one needs to take a very critical look at the products on the market in order to select the best one for their needs. You can see alloy steel and galvanized steel.
Eye Bolt Sizes
Here’s a table summarizing common eye bolt sizes:
Size (Thread
Diameter)Shank Length Range Eye lnside Diameter Range Working Load Limit Range 1/4 inch 1/2 -6 inches 3/8-2 inches 220-1300 pound 5/16 inch 5/8 -6 inches 7/16-2-1/4 inches 330-1550 pound 3/8 inch 3/4 -8 inches 1/2-2-3/4 inches 550-2600 pound 7/16 inch 7/8-10 inches 9/16-3-1/4 inches 720-3450 pound 1/2 inch 1-12 inches 5/8 -3-1/2 inches 1000-5200 pound 5/8 inch 1-1/4 -12 inches 3/4-4 inches 1550-7200 pound 3/4 inch 1-1/2-12 inches 7/8-4-1/2 inches 2600-9200 pound 7/8 inch 1-3/4 -12 inches 1-5 inches 3450-13000 pound 1 inch 2 -14 inches 1-1/4-5-1/2 inches 5200-16600 pound 1-1/4 inch 2-1/2 -16 inches 1-3/8 -6 inches 7200-21200 pound 1-1/2 inch 3 -18 inches 1-5/8 -7 inches 9200-27400 pound 2 inch 4-24 inches 2-8 inches 13000-44000 pound As working load limits vary depending on manufacturer and specific application, these are only approximate numbers of load surface. Manufacturer specifications ought to be always consulted for authentic information on the carrying capacity.
The dimensions mentioned here are normal specs for standard eye bolts, and vendor availability for custom sizes varies depending on the manufacturer, either for heavy off-axis loads or vertical loading. After choosing the correct size of the eye bolt due to load demands, the shank length needed to be the same with application, and the eye inner bolt diameter needed to fit into your hardware and rigging.
Degree of angle
Here’s a table summarizing the degree of angle for eye bolts:
| Degree of Angle | Description |
| 0° | Straight vertical lift, where the load is directly below the eye bolt. |
| 45° | Moderate angle, where the load is pulled at a 45-degree angle from thevertical. |
| 60° | Steeper angle, where the load is pulled at a 60-degree angle from the vertical. |
| 90° | Horizontal pull, where the load is parallel to the ground and perpendicular to the eye bolt. |
| Custom Angles | Some eye bolts are designed for specific angles, such as 30°, 75°, or other custom angles based on the application. |
The extent of angle for eye bolts is important to know to calculate the utilization factor of the bolt in the course of its operation. This is visible as a result of an increase in the vertical angle, which results in an eye bolt’s capacity to carry the load decreasing. It is imperative that the instructions of the manufacturer and the operating guidelines are always followed at the slightest change of oriented eye bolts.
Eye Bolt Grades & Markings
Here’s a table summarizing eye bolt grades and their markings:
| Grade | Material Composition | Markings | Strength | Common Uses |
| Grade 2 | Low carbon steel | 2, No Mark | Basic strength | General purpose, light-duty applications |
| Grade 5 | Medium carbon steel | 3 radial lines | Medium strength | Automotive,machinery, medium duty applications |
| Grade 8 | Alloy steel | 6 radial lines | High strength | Heavy machinery, high-strength applications |
| Stainless | Stainless steel (e.g. 304,316) | SS, specific grade number | Corrosion resistance | Marine, outdoor applications |
| Alloy | High-strength alloy steel (e.g. 4140,4340) | Specific alloy markings | High tensile strength | Heavy-duty applications, construction |
| Brass | Brass | Manufacturer’s logo/mark | Corrosion resistance | Decorative,electrical, marine applications |
| Aluminum | Aluminum | Manufacturer’s logo/mark | Lightweight, corrosion resistance | Aerospace, automotive, light-duty applications |
Markings on such bolts specify the class and strength. Thus, the user can choose the right bolt out of the different options for the particular application. Your safety always comes first; regarding eye-bolt use, there’s no better way to ensure it than to ensure that you read and follow manufacturer recommendations.
Fabrication Processes of Eye Bolts: Forged vs. Bent Eye Bolts
Here’s a table comparing the fabrication processes of forged eye bolts and bent eye bolts:
| Aspect | Forged Eye Bolts | Bent Eye Bolts |
| Process | Metal is heated and shaped using compressive force. | Metal is bent into shape without heating. |
| Strength | Generally stronger and more durable due to aligned grain structure. | Less strong compared to forged eye bolts. |
| Quality | Considered higher quality and more reliable for heavy-duty applications. | Suitable for lighter-duty applications. |
| Cost | More expensive due to labor-intensive forging process. | Generally less expensive due to simpler manufacturing. |
Being informed about the various fabrication techniques may come in handy when you are looking at choosing the appropriate latches because it affects the magnitude of strength, quality, and cost of the equipment depending on the particular application involved in drop-forged eye.
Nut Eye Bolts vs. Machinery Eye Bolts vs. Screw Eye Bolts
Here’s a table comparing nut eye bolts, machinery eye bolts, and screw eye bolts:
| Aspect | Nut Eye Bolts | Machinery Eye Bolts | Screw Eye Bolts |
| Design | Have a looped head with a nut on one end. | Have a looped head with a shoulder or collar. | Have a looped head with a threaded shank. |
| Installation | Require a nut to be tightened to secure the bolt. | Require the shoulder or collar to rest against the mounting surface. | Screw directly into a threaded hole or material. |
| Strength | Strong, especially when properly installed and tightened. | Strong, especially when the shoulder or collar is engaged. | Strong, but can be affected by the material it’s screwed into. |
| Applications | Suitable for applications requiring a secure and adjustable connection. | Ideal for heavy-duty applications requiring a strong, secure connection. | Commonly used for hanging lightweight items or temporary applications. |
| Common Uses | Rigging, lifting, and anchoring applications. | Heavy machinery, industrial equipment, and rigging applications. | Light-duty hanging applications, temporary installations. |
| Installation Tips | Ensure the nut is tightened securely to prevent loosening. | Ensure the shoulder or collar is properly seated against the mounting surface. | Use in materials with adequate thickness to support the load. |
| Considerations | Regularly inspect and tighten nuts to maintain secure connections. | Ensure proper alignment and seating of the shoulder or collar for maximum strength. | Use appropriate screw sizes and materials for the application. |
Recognizing the improvements of these kinds of eye bolts will surely help you get the one that is appropriate for your particular application, in light of the availability of options in terms of strength, the method of installation, and practical use.
Conclusion
So, when it comes to picking the most suitable type of eye bolt for your project, it will serve not just sustainability but safety as well. You may need a nutrition eye bolt, a machinery eye bolt that firmly contacts, or a screw eye bolt, all of which should be well considered in terms of load capacity, environmental conditions, and installation procedures. Lag Eye Bolt: This is a shank of these eye bolts that ends in a screw, specifically for attaching an eye bolt to wood or lag anchors. Make it a point to choose the right eye bolt that meets your project demands, and you can be sure that you will have a secure and reliable finish.
