The Ultimate Guide to Tongs: Types, Uses, and Maintenance

Tongs are a fundamental tool in the world of material handling, and they come in various types and sizes, each designed for specific purposes. Whether you are working in a steel mill, a foundry, a warehouse, or any industrial setting that involves lifting and moving heavy objects, having the right tongs will significantly improve efficiency and safety.

Understanding Different Types of Tongs

Tongs are not one-size-fits-all tools; they are different types of tongs to handle specific materials and loads. Here are some common types and uses of tongs you might encounter in the industrial setting:

External Friction Tong

Uses: External friction tongs are primarily used for gripping and lifting cylindrical objects such as pipes, bars, and tubes. They are designed with serrated jaws that provide a strong grip on the external surface of the material.

Maintenance: To maintain external friction tongs, regularly inspect the serrated jaws for wear and tear. If you notice any damage, replace the jaws promptly to ensure a secure grip.

External Support Tong

Uses: External support tongs specialize in managing lengthy and weighty materials such as steel beams, I-beams, and structural sections. These tongs come equipped with supportive arms that securely embrace the material from the outside, ensuring stability throughout the lifting and transportation process.

Maintenance: Inspect the support arms for signs of deformation or damage. Ensure that they are in good condition to prevent accidents during lifting operations.

Internal Friction Tong

Uses: Internal friction tongs excel at grasping and moving pipes, tubes, and similar hollow cylindrical items. Their design is distinct, featuring gripping elements that firmly hold the material from within. RUD Friction Tongs grab arms conform to the load surface with an outside diameter supported below the center of the load for additional holding advantage.

Maintenance: Regularly check the gripping elements for wear and tear. Ensure that they maintain a tight grip on the inner surface of the material to prevent accidents.

Internal Support Tong

Uses: Support tongs are purpose-built instruments tailored for efficiently managing rolls of paper, metal, or any other vertical-axis coils. They employ a bottom flat surface for a secure grip, ensuring dependable support. Their advantages include suitability for narrow aisle stockings, a compact design that enhances accessibility, and the ability to automatically adapt to various load sizes, making them versatile and practical tools for material handling.

Maintenance: Inspect the support arms for any signs of damage or deformation. Ensure that they are in good condition to prevent accidents when lifting heavy loads.

Motorized Coil Tong

Uses: RUD's Motorized Coil Tongs are known for their safety and efficiency, catering exclusively to the demands of hefty coil operations in industries such as steel, transport, and automotive. These tongs are equipped with motorized arms to optimize coil handling efficiency, curved lifting pads to protect the coil, and high-impact toe rollers that prevent any contact between the tong's foot and the valuable coils, ensuring the utmost care in handling.

Maintenance: Regularly inspect the motorized components, such as the gripping mechanisms and control systems, for any faults or malfunctions. Ensure that all electrical components are well-maintained to prevent accidents and breakdowns.

Slab Tong

Uses: Slab tongs are specialized for handling large, flat slabs of material, such as steel plates or concrete panels. They feature flat gripping surfaces that provide a secure hold on the slab's edges.

Maintenance: Inspect the gripping surfaces for any signs of wear, and replace them as needed to maintain a safe and secure grip on slabs.

Tips for Using and Maintaining Tongs Safely and Effectively

• Select the Right Tong for the Job: Always choose tongs that are specifically designed for the type and size of the material you are handling. Using the wrong type of tong can lead to accidents and damage to the material.
• Inspect Before Use: Before each use, inspect the tongs for any visible damage, wear, or loose parts. If you notice any issues, address them before proceeding.
• Secure the Load: Ensure that the load is properly balanced and secured within the tong's grip. This prevents the material from slipping or falling during lifting.
• Follow Load Limits: Respect the manufacturer's load capacity ratings for the tongs. Overloading can lead to equipment failure and dangerous situations.
• Use Proper Lifting Techniques: Train operators in proper lifting techniques to avoid strains and injuries. This includes maintaining a stable stance, using proper hand positions, and communicating effectively with other team members.

RUD India is here to support you on this journey. Our commitment to excellence aligns with your goals of achieving operational excellence. We invite you to explore our wide range of tongs and lifting solutions, backed by our expertise and dedication to your success. Together, we can elevate your material handling processes to new heights, setting the stage for a safer and more productive future.