What Are Fist Grip Clips?

Fist grip clips, also known as fist grip wire rope clips, are a type of mechanical fastening device used to secure and clamp wire ropes. They are commonly used in various rigging, lifting, and safety applications, where strong and secure connections are required to ensure the integrity of the rope and its load-bearing capacity. Fist grip clips are designed for use in configurations where the wire rope needs to be tied off, fastened to another point, or joined together to form a loop or eye.

In this article, we will explore what fist grip clips are, how they work, and their common uses in rigging and industrial settings.

What Are Fist Grip Clips?

Fist grip clips are specialized wire rope clips with a unique design that provides a more secure grip than traditional wire rope clips. The “fist” design refers to the shape of the clip, which wraps around the wire rope to provide a tight and secure hold. These clips are often used for forming loops, securing ropes to fixed points, or attaching ropes to other hardware.

Key Features:

• Unique Design:The fist grip clip features a rounded shape that encloses the wire rope, creating a tight and secure grip.
• Multiple Sizes:Fist grip clips come in various sizes to accommodate different wire rope diameters, ensuring they are suitable for a wide range of applications.
• Durable Construction:Typically made from high-strength materials such as galvanized steel or stainless steel, fist grip clips are designed to withstand heavy loads and extreme conditions.

How Do Fist Grip Clips Work?

Fist grip clips are installed by placing the clip over the wire rope and tightening it around the rope. The mechanism typically consists of a U-bolt, a fist-shaped body that grips the rope, and nuts to secure the clip in place. The process of installing fist grip clips involves:

1. Positioning the Clip:The clip is positioned around the wire rope where the rope needs to be secured, often forming a loop or eye in the process.
2. Tightening the Nuts:Once the clip is in place, the nuts are tightened onto the U-bolt, which draws the fist-shaped body tightly around the wire rope. The pressure created by the nuts holds the rope firmly in place.
3. Securing the Assembly:When properly installed, the fist grip clip provides a secure and reliable connection that can withstand the forces applied during load-bearing operations.

It is important to ensure that the clip is installed with the correct tension, as improper installation can lead to a loss of security or even failure of the connection.

Fist Grip Clips vs. U-Bolt Clips

Fist grip clips are preferable to traditional U-bolt clips for several reasons:

• Easy Installation:Fist grip clips cannot be installed incorrectly (upside down), unlike U-bolt clips, which can be misaligned if not installed properly. This reduces the chance of installation errors.
• Less Damage to the Rope:Fist grip clips cause less damage to the wire rope, as they distribute the load more evenly, minimizing wear and tear compared to U-bolt clips.
• Easier Torqueing:It is easier to torque the nuts from both sides when using fist grip clips, leading to a more secure installation and less risk of under-tightening.
• Fewer Clips Required:Fist grip clips typically require fewer clips per splice compared to U-bolt clips, which can save time and reduce material costs.
• Re-Torquing Requirement:Fist grip clips need to be re-torqued after a test load, ensuring that they maintain optimal tension and security.

Important: Installation of fist grip clips must be performed by a trained and competent person to ensure the correct procedure is followed, as improper installation can lead to failure and safety hazards.

Common Applications of Fist Grip Clips

Fist grip clips are versatile and widely used in many industries that involve wire rope applications, such as:

• Rigging:Fist grip clips are commonly used to form eyes or loops at the ends of wire ropes, which are then used for lifting, pulling, or securing heavy loads in rigging systems.
• Construction:In construction applications, fist grip clips are used to secure cables and wire ropes used for scaffolding, lifting equipment, or securing construction materials.
• Marine:Fist grip clips are used on boats and ships for securing ropes, mooring lines, and anchoring systems, as they can withstand harsh marine environments.
• Agriculture:Farmers often use fist grip clips to secure wire ropes in applications such as fencing, hoisting systems, and other agricultural machinery.
• Telecommunications and Power Lines:Fist grip clips are used for securing cables and wires in telecom and electrical transmission systems.

Advantages of Fist Grip Clips

1. Strong and Reliable Grip

Fist grip clips provide a stronger and more secure connection compared to traditional wire rope clips, ensuring that loads are securely fastened.

     2. Ease of Installation

The installation process for fist grip clips is relatively simple and requires minimal tools, making them easy to use in the field.

     3.Durability and Corrosion Resistance

Fist grip clips are made from durable materials such as galvanized steel or stainless steel, ensuring longevity and resistance to corrosion, especially in outdoor or marine applications.

     4.Versatility

Available in various sizes and materials, fist grip clips are suitable for use with a range of wire rope types and diameters, making them versatile for different applications.

     5.Improved Load Bearing Capacity

The design of the fist grip clip distributes the load evenly across the rope, reducing wear and tear and improving the overall load-bearing capacity.

How to Properly Use Fist Grip Clips

To ensure that fist grip clips perform optimally, follow these best practices:

1. Select the Correct Size:Choose a fist grip clip that matches the diameter of the wire rope. An incorrectly sized clip can result in inadequate securing and potential failure of the connection.
2. Install Correctly:When installing the clip, ensure that the “U” of the clip faces away from the load, and the nuts are tightened securely to avoid slippage.
3. Use Multiple Clips if Necessary:For higher loads, it may be necessary to use multiple fist grip clips on the same rope to ensure that the rope is adequately secured.
4. Inspect Regularly:Periodically check the condition of the clips and wire ropes for wear, corrosion, or other damage, particularly after heavy use.

Conclusion

Fist grip clips are an essential tool in the rigging and construction industries, providing a secure, reliable method for fastening and connecting wire ropes. Their unique design ensures that they offer a stronger grip than traditional wire rope clips, and they are versatile enough to be used in a wide range of applications. Whether you’re in construction, marine, agriculture, or another field requiring secure wire rope connections, fist grip clips are a valuable addition to your toolkit. If you have any interest about fist grip clips, please consult Sail Rigging right now.