What are Swivel Hoist Rings?
Swivel hoist rings are pivoting lifting points that align with the load as it moves. Unlike fixed eye bolts, they swivel 360 degrees and pivot up to 180 degrees to keep the ring in line with the pull, which helps maintain capacity during angular lifts and reduces side loading.
Why choose Swivel Hoist Rings over Eye Bolts
- Handles angular and off-center lifts where a fixed eye bolt may derate
- Rotates to follow the load path, reducing twist in slings and shackles
- Improves safety margin for unbalanced or shifting loads
- Faster, more predictable rigging in tight or blind locations
Key benefits of our Swivel Hoist Rings
- USA-made options from Ken Forging for dependable performance
- 360° swivel and 180° pivot to align with the direction of pull
- Forged alloy-steel components with protective finishes for shop or field use
- Clear specs for thread size, required engagement, and recommended torque
Common applications for Swivel Hoist Rings
- Tooling, molds, dies, and machine components
- Fabrication fixtures, skids, and frames
- Positioning or rotating loads during assembly or maintenance
- Lift points on equipment that needs to be moved or serviced
How to select a Swivel Hoist Ring
- Working Load Limit: Choose a WLL that meets or exceeds the required load with your safety factor.
- Thread match: Match diameter, pitch, and thread class to the tapped hole. Confirm right or left hand when applicable.
- Thread engagement: As a practical guideline, use at least one shank diameter of fully engaged threads in steel. Increase engagement for softer materials.
- Style and clearance: Pick center-pull, U-bar, or side-pull based on lift direction and available space.
- Material and finish: Use coated alloy steel for general industrial use or stainless for wet or corrosive settings.
Installation tips for Swivel Hoist Rings
- Drill and tap to the correct size and depth for full thread engagement, then seat the base flush on a clean, flat surface.
- Tighten to the manufacturer torque for your thread size. After tightening, confirm free swivel and pivot.
- Use compatible, rated shackles and slings. Avoid shock loading and follow temperature limits on the product page.
- Re-torque after initial use and at scheduled service intervals per your procedure.
Inch thread options (imperial)
Our catalog focuses on inch-thread swivel hoist rings (imperial). Check each product page for the specific thread size, minimum engagement, and torque value that applies to your installation.
Care and inspection
- Inspect threads, bail, and body for wear, deformation, corrosion, or looseness before each lift.
- Verify free rotation and pivot. Remove from service if movement is restricted or if any cracking is found.
- Keep records of inspections and proof tests in accordance with your site procedures.
Swivel Hoist Rings FAQs
- What does a swivel hoist ring do?
It provides a rotating and pivoting lifting point so the hook or shackle can align with the load path, helping reduce side loading and binding.
- When should I pick a swivel hoist ring instead of an eye bolt?
Use hoist rings for angular lifts, rotating or shifting loads, or whenever the pull will not stay perfectly in line. Use a shoulder eye bolt only for straight, in-line lifts on a proper seating surface.
- Do swivel hoist rings keep capacity at an angle?
They are designed for angular lifts when installed and torqued correctly. Always follow the angle limits and guidance provided for the specific model.
- How much thread engagement do I need?
A practical rule is at least one shank diameter of fully engaged threads in steel, with more required for softer base materials. Check the product spec for the exact minimum.
- What torque should I use on installation?
Use the manufacturer torque value for your thread size and base material. Proper torque is necessary to achieve the published Working Load Limit.
- Can I pair a hoist ring with wire rope, chain, or shackles?
Yes. Use compatible, rated rigging sized to the bail opening and with capacity that meets or exceeds your lift requirement.
- Are shock loads acceptable?
No. Apply force gradually and avoid impact or sudden stops, which can exceed the Working Load Limit.
- What inspections are required before use?
Check threads, bail, and body for damage or corrosion. Confirm free swivel and pivot and verify torque on the fastener before lifting.