Flex Clamp (Hpm-H); Chain Safety; Chain Bending; Minimum Bend Radius Requirement - Task Force Tips HEMISPHERE Instructions For Installation, Operation And Maintenance

4.9 FLEX CLAMP (HPM-H)

The flex clamp can be used on a variety of different objects. Round objects between 3" to up to 24" diameter can be attached to using
the chain supplied with the unit. Larger diameter round objects can be attached to by adding additional chain. Objects with different
shaped cross sections can be attached provided there are no sharp edges that the chain must lay against.

4.9.1 CHAIN SAFETY

Chain strength can be reduced when damaged or corroded. Degraded chain can break, causing
WARNING
property damage and/or injury.

4.9.1.1 CHAIN BENDING

The chain will bend and be weakened if it is tightened against a sharp
edge such as:
• An unprotected I-beam. (The I-beam clamp (HPM-A) should be
used on unprotected I-beams.)
• L or C channel
• Square or rectangular bars with sharp corners
• Guard rails
• Flat plates
• Brick
Steel corner protectors designed specifically for use with chain can be
used on objects with sharp edges, but can make installation difficult.

4.9.1.2 MINIMUM BEND RADIUS REQUIREMENT

The minimum corner radius required to avoid bent chain is 3/8" (9.5mm).
To check a questionable corner radius, place the integrated radius
gauge against the corner, as shown.
If the corner radius is smaller than the gauge, the clamp should not be
used without corner protection.
©Copyright Task Force Tips LLC 2013-2020
• Inspect the chain and shackles before and after each use. Refer to CHAIN AND SHACKLE
INSPECTION section for inspection criteria.
• Avoid installing chain on objects with sharp corners as this can bend the chain. Bent chain
has less strength and could break, causing property damage and/or bodily harm. Refer to
MINIMUM BEND RADIUS REQUIREMENT section for minimum radius gaging instructions.
• Avoid high temperatures which could reduce the safe working load of the chain and may
result in an unsafe condition. If chain is exposed to temperatures of 400°F (204°C) or higher,
remove the clamp from service and replace the chain.
• Never use a cheater bar or other such device to turn the chain tensioner crank. Using a
cheater bar or other such device to turn the chain tensioner crank can damage the clamp. A
damaged clamp can fail, causing property damage and/or injury.
OK
Determining Acceptable Radius for Mounting Objects
Chain Bending Against a Sharp Corner
OK
Figure 4.9.1.2B
17
Figure 4.9.1.1
Corner
Radius
Gauge
Figure 4.9.1.2A
Minimum Bend Radius Gauge
TOO
SMALL
LIX-740 July 21, 2020 Rev08