Shackles are critical components in lifting, mooring, and marine operations. Using uncertified or low-quality shackles can lead to equipment failure, accidents, or costly downtime. Understanding essential shackle tests ensures safety, durability, and compliance with international standards.

1) Tensile / Load Test

Purpose:
To verify that the shackle can safely handle its rated Working Load Limit (WLL) and safety factor.

How it works:

-- The shackle is placed in a tensile testing machine.

-- Load is gradually applied until the shackle reaches the specified test load.

Typically, the test load is 2–5 times the WLL to ensure it withstands extreme conditions.

Customer Tip: Always request tensile test certification before purchasing, especially for critical marine or lifting applications.

2) Impact Test

Purpose:
To ensure the shackle can withstand sudden shocks, such as waves hitting a mooring system.

How it works:

-- Dynamic loads are applied using specialized equipment.

-- Inspect for cracks or permanent deformation after the impact.

Tip: For offshore and floating buoy projects, impact-tested shackles are essential.

3) Corrosion / Salt Spray Test

Purpose:
Marine environments are highly corrosive. This test ensures the shackle maintains performance over time.

How it works: 

-- Conducted according to ASTM B117 or ISO 9227 standards.

-- Shackles are exposed to salt fog for a specific duration.

-- Surface coatings, such as galvanized or stainless steel finishes, are evaluated for resistance.

Customer Tip: Corrosion resistance has a direct impact on shackle lifespan and safety in seawater.

4) Material & Dimensional Inspection

-- Dimensions: Ensure pins, bolts, and shackle body meet design specifications.

-- Material Testing: Verify chemical composition, hardness, and mechanical properties.

-- Non-Destructive Testing (Optional): Ultrasonic or magnetic particle testing to detect internal defects.

Tip: These tests guarantee consistency and reliability for critical projects.

5) Compliance with Standards

High-quality shackles usually comply with:

ISO 2415 – International shackle standard

EN 13889 – European standard

ASTM A153 / ASTM F1145 – Forged steel shackles

Marine certifications – CCS, DNV, LR, BV

Customer Tip: Always verify certification and test reports before making a purchase.

Advice on Choosing Shackles 

Shackles may seem simple, but their safety and reliability depend on rigorous testing. When selecting shackles for marine or industrial projects:

-- Request tensile and impact test certificates

-- Verify corrosion resistance for marine applications

-- Ensure material and dimensional inspections are documented

-- Choosing tested and certified shackles ensures safety, durability, and peace of mind.

If you are looking for high-quality shackles for marine or industrial applications, we provide certified products with full test reports. Contact us today to get a quote and secure your project safety.