Installation guidance
Correct Use of a Wire-Mesh Pulling Grip for Wire-Rope Installation
Often called a cable sock, pulling stocking or “Chinese finger.”
- What it is: a flexible mesh attachment designed to grip an appropriate rope or cable over an engagement length.
- Pulling versus lifting: a pulling grip is not automatically a rated lifting attachment.
- Select the correct size, construction and rating for the application.
- Inspect the grip, eye, mesh, connectors and identification before use.
- Prepare the wire-rope end without creating damage or an oversized obstruction.
- Fit the mesh evenly in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Connect the pulling line or existing rope using suitable rated components.
- Prevent transfer of twist using the approved arrangement for the rope and installation.
- Control speed, line of pull, stored energy and personnel positions.
- Maintain alignment and suitable back-tension.
- Monitor the drum, fleet angle and formation of the first layer.
- Stop for abnormal movement, resistance, grip migration or rope distortion.
- Remove the grip without damaging the installed rope.
- Inspect the rope after installation and record relevant findings.
Common errors
- Grip too large for the rope
- Insufficient engagement length
- Bunched or distorted mesh
- Damaged rope end
- Side-loaded pulling eye
- Unrated connectors
- No rotation control
- Personnel standing in the line of pull
- Using the grip for lifting without an appropriate rating
- Continuing after grip movement or rope distortion is observed
Always follow the pulling-grip manufacturer’s instructions, wire-rope manufacturer’s installation guidance, equipment requirements and the approved task plan. The grip’s permitted use and capacity depend on its design and rating.