What Is a Pad Eye and How Do You Use It?
A pad eye is a fixed lifting or tie-down point welded or bolted to a surface. It is a simple part, but the direction of the load and the way it is attached determine whether it is safe. This guide explains pad eyes and how to use them.
What Is a Pad Eye?
A pad eye is a metal plate with a raised eye, used as a permanent anchor point. It can be welded to steel or bolted to concrete, wood or metal. Slings, shackles and hooks connect through the eye.
Types of Pad Eyes
Weld-on pad eye: welded to a steel structure for a permanent anchor.
Bolt-on pad eye: fixed with bolts for removable installations.
Swivel pad eye: the eye rotates to follow the load direction.
Folding pad eye: the eye folds flat when not in use.
How Pad Eyes Are Loaded
Pad eyes are strongest when the load pulls in line with the eye. Side loading or loading across the plate reduces capacity. Always check the rated load direction before use.
How to Choose a Pad Eye
Match the WLL to the load and the direction of pull.
Choose weld-on for permanent steel anchors, bolt-on for removable points.
Use a swivel pad eye where the load direction changes.
Check the weld or bolts and the eye for wear before each lift.
FAQ
What is a pad eye used for?
It provides a fixed anchor point for slings, shackles and hooks on a structure or load.
Can a pad eye be side-loaded?
Only if it is rated for that direction. Side loading reduces capacity and can bend the eye.
Related Reading
Pad Eyes and Lifting Points
SolidLink supplies pad eyes and lifting hardware in forged and welded steel. Browse our pad eyes or contact us for a quote.
