Weld on hooks are primarily used to facilitate axial loading. Additionally, they also promote the addition of fixed anchor points on spreader beams and farm machinery. Every weld on hook comes with complete welding instructions that one should abide by in order to ensure safe and efficient use. First off, make sure that there is no paint, rust, or grease on the welding surface. Clean the surface carefully. Before using the weld, it is a good idea to get it inspected. Importantly, you should get trained personnel involved in periodic visual inspections. Such inspections are normally undertaken to detect signs of cracks, gouges, wear, nicks, and distortion.

If you find the hook to be bent or distorted in any manner, it is recommended that you do not use it. Moreover, if the throat opening is found to be widened and if the hook tip bends by more than 10 degrees, you should refrain from using the hook. This is mainly because of the fact that the latch will not work if the tip of a weld on hook gets bent or worn out.

When you use a lifting sling to attach the load, use the bottom part of the hook while making sure that the latch remains closed. Make sure that you do not attach the load directly to the tip of the hook or to the latch. You should also avoid side loading. Keep only one sling attached directly to the hook. When you conduct the lifting operation, make sure that the activity does not generate any jerking movement. Simply put, the load should not be in motion during the lifting action. Most importantly, you have to make sure that the working load limit is not exceeded.    In such a case, the hook will break, leading to injury and damages.

Important Points to Consider

• It is not a good idea to repair, reshape, or rework a hook through heating, burning, welding or bending.
• The hook should be positioned in such a manner that it can support the load in all positions. Apply the load in the hook’s plane. The hook should not act as barriers to the proper functioning of other mechanisms.
• Appoint a qualified welder who is adept at deploying standard procedures.
• Check the electrode manufacturer’s recommendations to have a clear understanding about the welding electrode.

After the welding is completed, get a detailed visual inspection conducted before you move to the painting stage. The hook should not contain cracks, notches, and undercuts. In case you have any doubt, get the hook verified through Magnetic Particle or Liquid Penetrate methods.