Stainless Steel Eye Plates, Eye Bolts & Fittings

Frequently asked questions

What is the difference between an eye plate, a pad eye and a ring plate?

An eye plate or pad eye carries a fixed eye, which suits a snap hook, shackle or lashing that stays attached. A ring plate carries a free ring that can fold down when not in use and follow the direction of pull. Opening-type fittings such as SS8032 and SS8042 leave the eye open so shock cord and lines can be hooked on and off.

Screw-down or machine-screw fixing: which is better?

Plates with countersunk holes are screwed down through two or four holes and suit solid timber, thick metal or panels with a backing plate. Plates with a machine screw stud, such as SS8044 and SS8045, are bolted through and tightened from behind, which holds better in thin panels and hollow sections. In both cases the strength of the fixing depends on the substrate and any backing as much as on the fitting.

Are the DIN 580 and DIN 582 pattern items rated for lifting?

The SS580 and SS582 follow the DIN 580 and DIN 582 patterns, but no working load limits are published for these stainless versions. Rated loads must therefore be confirmed in writing for the size and material before any lifting use. Eye bolts and eye nuts must also be fully seated, with the load in the plane of the eye.

304 or 316: which grade should I choose for deck hardware?

Grade 304 suits interiors, sheltered decks and general outdoor fixing, and is used here for many of the polished plates and the U-bolts. Grade 316, with 2 to 3 % molybdenum, resists chloride pitting better and is the usual choice for fittings in spray zones or in regular contact with sea water. Ring plates, eye plates and eye bolts appear in both grades across this category.

What does a wire rope thimble do?

A thimble lines the inside of a wire rope eye so the rope keeps a smooth radius and does not flatten or kink around a shackle pin or hook, and it spreads wear. Thimbles are used with wire rope clips, ferrules or splices and do not carry a load rating of their own. SS7050 is listed in sizes from 2 to 25 mm.

What should an RFQ for stainless fittings include?

Give the product code, size and quantity per size, the material grade and finish, and the fixing method, such as screws, through-bolt or stud length. For lifting-pattern items, state the rated load and documentation required. Private-label packaging and modified designs can be quoted against a drawing.