BSI B S * H A * 4 7 77 = Lb24bbî 0338372 5

BS MA47 :I977
UDC 629.12.011.51 : 621.861.2

British Standard Marine Series: Code of practice for

Ships' cargo blocks

Code de bonne pratique pour les poulies de charge pour usage à bord des navires

Richtlinie für Lastflaschenzüge für Schiffe

Contents
Page Page
Foreword Inside front cover D. Guidance for the ordering of blocks 12
Specification E. Particulars of screw threads for the shanks
of head fittings 13
1. Scope 3 F. Care and maintenance of ships' cargo blocks 13
2. References 3 G. Formulae for round section eyes 14
3. Definitions 3 H. Head fittings 15
4. Factor of safety 3
5. Permissible working stresses 3 Figures
6. Material 6 1. Ships' cargo blocks 4
7. Side and partition plates 7 2. Shear pull-out and tensile stress in straps 6
8. Fixed head fittings 7 3. Position of reactions in crossheads 6
9. Shanked swivel head fittings 7 4. Typical rigs using single sheave blocks 11
IO. Screw threads 7 5. Head fittings 15
11. Heat treatment 7 Tables
12. Axle pins 7
13. Lubrication - 7 I. Load transmitted by block sheaves 5
14. Sheaves 8 2. Load on supporting straps (equal spans) 5
15. Becket 8 3. Permissible tensile stress on shanks of head
fittings 6
16. Locking nuts 8
17. Proof load 8 4. Diameter in sheave grooves 8
18. Examination after proof load 9 5. Diameter of sheaves 1 8
19. Marking 9 6. Proof load in relation t o safe working load 10
20. Certificate of test and examination 9
7. Typical table of information that may be
supplied with an enquiry or order 12
Appendices 8. Paiticulars of screw threads: I S 0 metric screw
A. Recommendations relating to contracts 10 threads, coarse series with graded pitches 13
B. Proof load in relation to safe working load 10
C. Single sheave blocks: marking of safe working
load and use in the derrick rig 10

British Standards Institution Gr 5

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 E S 1 BS*MA*L17 7 7
BS MA 47 : 1977
Foreword
In this revision of BS 408 (now BS MA 471, th'is standard
has been brought into line with complementary standards
and i t s scope has been extended by the inclusion of snatch
blocks.
All units are now in metric values and wire ropes are sized
by diameter in place of circumference. In the case of
sheaves, the diameter is now measured a t the bottom of
the rope groove.
The relationship between the proof load and safe working
load (SWL) has been brought into line with the values in
the International Labour Office pamphlet No. 188 'Safety
and health in dock work' (ILO code), which are being
incorporated in the new Docks Regulations now in
preparation.
As in the 1963 edition of this standard, limitations have
been placed on the use of screw threads having a depth of
thread less than 0.040, where D is the diameter a t the top
of the thread. This limitation, which assumes a length of
engagement equal to the diameter D,is a precaution against
the possibility of the threads beginning to fail before the
tensile failure of the core diameter area. (In the case of
internal threads the increased circumferential area in shear
will compensate for the reduced depth of thread.)
Where hooks are required they should comply with the
relevant British Standard.
Unlike blocks for general engineering purposes, the SWL
marked on any multiple sheave block will correspond to
the resultant load on the head fitting of that block. Thus
the fixed block in a purchase should normally have a
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greater SWL marked on it than the moving block, to allow
for the downhaul pull.
This standard applies to ships' cargo blocks for use with
wire rope. In order to determine the appropriate size of
wire rope, and the resultant loads on the head fittings,
reference should be made to the design information in ES
MA 48 'Code of practice for the design and operation of
ships' derrick rigs'.
Where the position of a block in any set of lifting tackle is
changed (for example, when the block i s used in another
combination of blocks), the loading imposed upon a block
under a given cargo load may vary with the position in
which it is placed. Care and discretion must therefore be
exercised in the selection of blocks to be used in different
sets or combinations, to avoid the possibility of overloading
(see BS MA 48).
Attention is drawn to appendix A which deals with
provisions for testing and inspection in contracts.
Cargo blocks should be periodically overhauled and, when
not in use, they should be stowed and protected against
undue exposure to weather. Recommendations as to
maintenance, overhaul and lubrication are given in
appendix F. Neglect of adequate lubrication seriously
increases friction in the block and can also lead to rapid pin
wear.
While those types of blocks which are known as 'malleable
blocks' and 'wood blocks' are not included in this standard,
this should not be interpreted as deprecating such blocks
for the purposes for which they are commonly used.
 BSI B S * M A * 4 7 77 = Lb24bb4
1. scope
This standard covers ships' steel cargo blocks for use with
wire rope and forming part of the cargo derrick rig,
embracing the body, sheave($), axle pin, head fittings and
becket.
Materials, workmanship, design particulars (screw threads,
bearings, sheave diameters for given rope sizes, sheave
grooves), permissiblestresses, proof loading, inspection,
marking and certificate of test and examination are
specified.
2. References
This standard makes reference to the follow standards
publications:
BS 302 Wire ropes for cranes, excavators and general
engineering purposes
BS 309 Whiteheart malleable iron castings
BS 310 Blackheart malleable iron castings
BS919 Screw gauge limits and tolerances
BS 970 Wrought steels in the form of blooms, billets,
bars and forgings
Part 1 Carbon and carbon manganese steels,
including free cutting steels
BS 1452 Grey iron castings
BS 1486 Lubricating nipples
BS 1610 Methods for the load verification of testing
machines
BS 1700 Memorandum on ships' derrick rigs
BS 1936 Undercuts and runouts for screw threads
BS 2772 Iron and steel for colliery haulage and winding
equipment
Part 2 Wrought steel
BS 2789 Iron castings with spheroidal or nodular
graphite
BS 3017 Mild steel forged ramshorn hooks
BS 3100 Specification for steel castings for general
engineering purposes
BS 3810 Glossary of terms used in materials'handling
Part 6 Terms used in connection with pulley
blocks
BS 4360 Weldable structural steels
BS MA 48 Design and operation of ships' derrick rigs
3. Definitions
For the purposes of this British Standard the following
definitions apply.
3.1 ships' cargo block (see figure 1). A block suitable for
use with wire rope and forming part of the cargo derrick
rig, embracing the body, sheave(s), axle pin, head fittings,
becket, and/or other components.
3.2 single, double, treble, four-fold, five-fold, etc. block.
A block with one, two, three, four, five, etc., sheaves.
3.3 mast head span block, lower cargo purchase block, etc.
Blocks used in particular positions on derricks.
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3.4 snatch block. A single block with a hinged portion
through which a rope can be passed to facilitate reeving.
3.5 head fittings. The means by which the block is
attached to i t s anchorage or to the load being lifted. Types
of head fittings are shown in BS 3810 : Part 6,and are
reproduced âs appendix H of this standard.
3.6 safe working load of a single sheave block. The
maximum load, W, which can safely be lifted in the manner
shown in figure 4, appendix C.
3.7 safe working load of a multiple sheave block. The
maximum resultant load which can safely be applied to the
head fitting of the block in service.
NOTE, A snatch block is regarded as suitable only when rigged as
a lead black, and only when the hinged portion is properly closed
and secured. In such condition it is deemed to have a similar
function to that of a single sheave block, and the safe working load
is similarly defined.
4. Factor of safety
For the purpose of this standard, the factor of safety of a
block is the ratio between the ultimate strength of the
block as a unit, and the maximum permitted load imposed
on the block, neglecting frictioQat resistance, acceleration
of the load and the affect of a ship's list, which are taken
care of by the factor of safety.
The factor of safety, as so defined, should be not less
than 5.
It is further required that the permissibleworking stresses
specified in clause 5 should not be exceeded in the design
of the block.
5. Permissible working stresses
5.1 Bearing pressure on axle pin. The bearing pressure
between any sheave bush and the axle pin should not
exceed 39 N/mm2 for single sheave blocks, or 31 N/mm2
for multiple sheave blocks.
For the purpose of calculation, the load transmitted by
any sheave should be taken as not less than that shown in
table 1.
The pressure between the axle pin and the stress-bearing
members (¡.e. straps and supporting partitions) of the
block should not exceed 154 N/mrn2 and, for the purpose
of calculation, the load sustained by such members when
each individual sheave has a support should be taken as not
less than that shown in table 2.
For the foregoing requirements, the projected area of the
axle pin in contact should be taken, ¡.e. Area = appropriate
length x diameter.
5.2 Shearing stress in axle pins and through bolts. In single
shear the shearing stress should not exceed 62 N/mm2 for
mild steel, or 77 N/mm2 for higher tensile steel (see clause
6).Twice these values may be taken in the case of double
shear. In the design of snatch blocks, the loading may be
assumed to be equally distributed on each side strap.
3
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BS MA 47 : 1977

Table 1. -oad transmitted by block sheaves

Type of Number Percentage of resultant load on head fitting

block of transmitted by any sheave, max.
sheaves
in Sheaves with bushed Sheaves with ball
block plain bearings or roller bearings
(Friction allowance 6 %) (Friction allowance 2 %I

Without becket With becket Without becket With becket

% % % %
Double 53 44 51 42
Treble 38 33 35 30
Four-fold 30 27 27 24
Five-fold 25 24 22 20
Six-fold 22 21 19 18
Seven-fol] 20 19 17 16
Eight-folí 19 18 15 14

NOTE 1. For all blocks covered by this table, the resultant load on the head fitting is the value
of the SWL marked on the block (See definitions. clause 3).
NOTE 2. The percentages in this table are based on the maximum rope tensions on the moving
block when hoisting, as calculated from the friction coefficients given in section 2 of BS 1700 : 1963.

Table 2. Load on supporting straps (equal spans)

Type of Numbei Number of Percentage of total load on axle pin
block of supports sustained by supports, max.
sheaves
in Sheaves with bushed Sheaves with ball
block plain bearings or roller bearings
(Friction allowance 6 %) (Friction allowance 2 %)

Any inner Any outer Any inner Any outer

support support support support

% % % %
Double 1 2 63 20 63 19
Treble 2 2 40 15 38 14
Four-fo Id 3 2 32 12 30 11 '

Five-fold 4 2 27 10 24 9
Six-fold 5 2 24 9 21 8
Seven-fol1 6 2 22 8 18 7
Eight-fok 7 2 20 7 16 6

NOTE 1. Provision should be made on the appropriate supports for the load imposed by the becket.
NOTE 2. The loadings shown in this table have been calculated on the assumption that the axle pin
is a continuous beam having free ends and supports equally spaced, and is subjected to a varying
load, due to ropelsheave friction and increasing in magnitude along the length of the axle pin, when
hoisting or lowering.

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5.3 Permissible stress on screwed shanks of head fittings. 5.6 Bending stress in axle pins. Adequate support should
The average tensile stress on the shanks of head fittings be provided for the axle pins to prevent excessive bending
5
should be based on the core area ( x square of core stress, and the design of the axle pins and supports should
diameter). For the purpose of this calculation, screw be such that there is no apparent permanent set after the
thread tolerances may be neglected (see appendix E). The removal of the proof load.
average tensile stress due to the resultant load on the shank 5.7 Stress in crossheads. The extreme fibre stress a t the
should not exceed the values given in table 3. centre of the length of the crosshead when housing a
swivel head-fitting should not exceed 77 N/mmz for mild
Table 3. Permissible tensile stress on shanks of
steel, or 93 N/mm2 for higher tensile steel. This stress is
head fittings related to the resultant load on the crosshead when
Permissible tensile stress supporting the safe working load, taking into account the
stress concentration a t the cross section a t the central hole
Resultant load Higher tensile Higher tensile receiving the shank of the head fitting.
on head fitting steel hook and steel eye and
mild steel eye alloy steel For the purpose of calculation, the reactions may be
head fittings assumed to act a t the positions shown in figure 3.
t N/mm2 N/mmz
Upto 50 62
55 65
60 68 85
65 71 (ail sizes)
70 74
75 and 77
over
NOTE.With ramshorn hc <s, the stress values i BS 301 7 should be
used.
When calculating the resultant load, W, on the screwed
shank, the effect of acceleration of the load, and of any
increased loading due to a ship’s list, may be neglected. D is machined shank diameter Pis pitch circle diameter

5.4 Bearing pressure on collars and nuts of shanks. To
prevent excessive bearing pressure between the screwed
collar or nut and the crosshead of the block, the diameter
of the collar should be not less than 1.50 + 3 mm, where
D is the diameter of the shank in mm.
5.5 Shear pull-out and tensile stress in straps. The shear
pull-out in the cross section a t the end of a strap should
not exceed 54 N/mm2 in single shear, on the area 2(a x t ) ,
as shown in figure 2. The average tensile stress in the cross
section a t either side of the hole for the axle pin, and a t
either side of the hole for the crosshead trunnion, should
not exceed 77 N/mm2 on the area 2(b x t ) .
f b \ result of rope friction, etc.
( a ) Plain bearing (b) Ball bearing
Figure 3.Position of reactions in crossheads
5.8 Stress in forged eye head fittings. Head fittings in the
form of round or elongated eyes of circular cross section
should be designed for stress a t proof load in accordance
with the appropriate formula in appendix G.
5.9 Stress in forged bow head fittings. Head fittings of the
bow or dee shackle form should be designed for stress a t
proof load in accordance with the requirements of the
appropriate British Standard for shackles.
I t may be assumed that any stress relief due to end fixing
is offset by the possible effects of unequal loading due to
slight lack of alignment when hoisting and lowering as a

6. Material
The material used in the construction of the blocks should
6 comply with the following standards.
(a) Head fittings and beckets
BS 970: Part 1 : 1972
R = resultant load on strap Steels 070M20
070M26
Figure 2. Shear pull-out and tensile stress in straps 080M30
150M19
In the case of snatch blocks, the loading may be assumed 150M28
t o be equally distributed on each side strap. BS 2772: Part 2 : 1956
Steel 150M19
BS 3100: 1976
Steels Al, A2 or A3
(Applicable to crossheads, figure 5 in appendix HI

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(b) Axle pins
BS 970: Part 1: 1972
Steel 010M55
Specification: Carbon steel or any of the wrought
steels listed in (a)
(c) Side and partition plates
BS 309
BS 310
BS 2789: 1973
Grades 370117 or 420112
BS 3100
Steels Ai, Az or A3
BS 4360
(d) Straps
BS 4360, or any of the wrought steels listed in (a)
(e) Sheaves
BS 309
BS 310
BS 1452: 1961
Grades 150 or 180
BS 2789: 1973
Grades 370117 or 420112
BS 3100: 1976
Steel A3 or alternatively A l or Az
Grey iron or malleable cast iron should not be used in
certain cases (see clause 13).
7. Side and partition plates
The side and partition plates should be made of mild steel,
steel castings, iron castings with spheroidal or nodular
graphite, or malleable iron castings. The plates should
project beyond the sheaves to provide ample protection
for the rope.
Mild steel plates should be free from warping, and the
edges of all plates should be smoothly finished.
Adequate means should be provided in single sheave blocks
to prevent the rope from jamming between the side plates
and the sheave.
The clearance between any plain bushed sheave boss and
the side plates, etc. within which it is housed should not
exceed 1.5 mm (¡.e. 0.75 mm on each side).
All through-holes in side and partition plates should be
machined in true alignment. (This requirement i s not
necessary in the special case of a square section axle pin.)
8. Fixed head fittings
8.1 Forged bow head fittings. Head fittings of the bow or
dee shackle form should be manufactured in accordance
with the general requirements of the appropriate British
Standard for shackles.
8.2 Plate crossheads, link plates, eyes, etc. Plate crossheads,
link plates, eyes, etc. should be manufactured by one of the
following methods:
(a) wholly forged to finished dimensions;
(b) rough forged and profiled t o shape and dimensions
by machining. Machine gas-cutting may be used provided
that an adequate excess of material remains for removal
of surface defects by machining, chipping or flame
dressing;
(c) cast in steel. (Applicable to crossheads, figure 5 in
appendix H.)
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BS MA 47 : 1977
All holes should be accurately drilled or bored a t right
angles t o the axis of the head fitting.
9. Shanked swivel head fittings
Shanked swivel head fittings should be forged in one piece
and machined, Alternatively, machine gas cutting may be
adopted provided the shank is subsequently forged and
machined.
When threaded, swivel head fittings should be fitted with
screwed collars or nuts, the depth of either being not less
than the full diameter of the screwed shank.
The continuous length of shank engaged by the nut or
collar on the load side should be a t least equal to two-thirds
of the diameter of the screwed shank before being
interrupted by a through pin or other fixing.
The collars or nuts, or in the case of an unscrewed shank,
the bolts through the crosshead, should be secured by
means which are effective against 'slacking back', and a t
the same time permit the ready removal of the swivel head
fitting for inspection.
Head fittings with shanks should turn freely by hand
without load.
IO. Screw threads
The screw threads on the shanks of head fittings should
conform to the requirements of the appropriate British
Standard.
depth of thread
The ratio of should be not
diameter a t the top of thread
less than 0.04.
The portion of the shank adjacent to the shoulder should
have an undercut and fillet in accordance with the
recommendationsfor the undercut form A, grade 1, in
BS 1936: 1952.
It i s recommended that the screw threads should be gauged
with an appropriate gauge that complies with the require-
ments of the relevant specification in BS 919.
NOTE. Particulars of I S 0 metric screw threads are given in
appendix E.
11. Heat treatment
Prior to machining operations, all forgings, e.g. head fittings
and forged beckets and pins, should be either normalized or
hardened and tempered in the temperature range
appropriate to the material.
12, Axle pins
The surface finish of the axle pin should be appropriate to
the bearings. The axle pin should be positively secured
against rotation and lateral movement by a means which
permits it to be withdrawn for inspection.
13. Lubrication
Provision should be made for lubricating all bearings and
swivel head fittings without any dismantling. Oil holes
should be protected. Plain bearings or their axles should
have grooves to distribute the lubricant over the bearing
surface.
Ball and roller bearings should be packed with grease during
initial assembly. Lubrication nipples should be o f such a
type and so located that application of the lubricant gun
and the actions and forces required to operate it are
possible in the rig position, while a t the same time the
 B S I BS*NA*Ll7 77 m Lb2Lihb9 0 3 3 8 3 7 9 8 m
BS MA 47 : 1977

nipples are not unnecessarily exposed to accidental damage. Table 4. Diameter in sheave grooves
Nipples of type 11, conforming to the requirements of
BS 1486, are suitable. Nominal Diameter in Nominal Diameter in
diameter groove diameter groove
of rope = rad. X 2 of rope = rad. X 2
14. Sheaves d d

Sheaves should be castings or machine gas cut from steel

plate. Ordinary grey castings or malleable cast iron should mm mm mm mm
not be used for sheaves in the following circumstances. 16 17 30 32
(a) Multiple or single sheave blocks in derricks of SWL 18 19 32 34
20 tonnes and over. 20 22 35 38
21 23 36 39
(b) Multiple sheave blocks of SWL 20 tonnes and over.
22 24 38 41
(c) Single sheave blocks used in the same purchase as
24 26 40 43
multiple sheave blocks of SWL 20 tonnes and over.
26 28 44 47
NOTE. Where the sheave is in constant use, or is in heavy service, 28 30 48 52
with tread pressures correspondingly high, it may be desirable to use
sheaves of appreciably harder material and larger diameter than the
minimum that this standard recommends.

Each face of the boss should be machined, and the finished Table 5. Diameter of sheaves
length through the boss should be a t least 1.5 mm more ~~

than the overall breadth of any part of the sheave (¡.e. Nominal Minimum diameter at the bottom of groove
diameter
0.75 mm on each side). of rope Running ropes Fixed span ropes*
Sheaves should be provided either with ball or roller d î4d 1Od
bearings or with phosphor bronze or other anti-friction
bushes. Alternatively, the sheaves may revolve upon a fixed mm mm mm
bush located on the axle pin. Up to and
Ball or roller bearings should be in accordance with an including 16 224 160
appropriate British Standard, and should conform to the 18 252 180
bearing maker's recommendations as to duty and fittings. 20 280 200
They should withstand the required proof load on the 21 294 210
block without injury. 22 308 220
NOTE. Designers are advised, when approaching bearing 24 336 240
manufacturers with regard to bearing selection, to provide not 26 364 260
only information on service loads, speeds and hours of operation,
but also on any test loading, particularly the proof load. 28 392 280
30 420 300
Sheaves should rotate freely by hand. 32 448 320
The depth of the groove in the sheave should preferably be 35 490 350
equal to the diameter of the rope, but in no case should it 36 504 360
be less than three-quarters of the diameter of the rope. 40 560
The surface of the groove and the outside rim of the sheave 44 616
should be clean, smooth and free from sharp edges, 48 672
projections or other defects liable to injure the rope. The
edges of the groove should be radiused. * Derrick supported by a single-part span.
The contour a t the bottom of the groove should be circular
over an angle of 128' (correspondingto an angle of flare of
52'), and the diameter in the groove (¡.e. radius x 2) should 16. Locking nuts
be as given in table 4. All nuts should be securely locked by a means which
The size of the sheave should be measured a t the bottom permits removal for the purpose of examination and repair
of the rope groove, and should be not less than that shown of the block.
in table 5.
17. Proof load
15. Becket The completed block should be subjected to i t s proof load
The becket, unless an integral part of the shell, should be (for scale of proof loads, see table 6).
cleanly forged or machined from the solid. In the case of multiple sheave blocks, the safe working load
The breaking load of the becket should be a t least equal to is the resultant load on the head fitting.
the minimum breaking load of the wire rope for which the In the case of single sheave blocks, the resultant load on the
block is designed, assuming round strand equal lay 6 x 26 head fitting will be twice the safe working load (SWL)
to 6 x 41 series, fibre core, complying with the require- marked on the block (see appendix C ) .
ments of BS 302. There should be a separate t e s t on the becket, and i t s safe
It is recommended that snatch blocks should not be fitted working load should be taken as one-fifth of the minimum
with beckets. breaking load of the wire rope (see clause 15).

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 B S I BS*HA*Y7 77
The testing machine should be verified in accordance with
the requirements of BS 1610, and maintained within
grade B. I t s full load should be not more than 10 times the
proof load.
The testing machine should be balanced in the presence of
the inspector before the tests are made.
18. Examination after proof load
After proof loading, all parts of the blocks should be
thoroughly examined by a competent person. The shanks
of the swivel head fittings and the sheaves should rotate
freely by hand, and the block should be accepted only if
found free from deformation, cracks, flaws, or other
defects.
19. Marking
The following information should be clearly and
permanently marked on a non-vital part of eaeh block:
(a) maker‘s name or trade mark;
(b) distinguishing number or mark;
(c) diameter of rope;
(d) SWL (safe working load).
The proof load should not be marked on the block.
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BS MA 47 : 1977
20. Certificate of test and examination
The block maker or supplier should provide a certificate
with each consignment of blocks, giving the following
informatiori for each one:
(a) distinguishing number or mark (to enable the
particular block to be identified);
(b) description;
(c) head fitting: type, material, heat treatment (see
clauses 6 and 11 and appendix DI;
(d) axle pin: material, heat treatment;
(e) becket (if fitted): material, heat treatment;
(f) wire rope: diameter;
(9) number tested;
(h) proof load (see clause 17 and appendix B).
The certificate should declare that each block was proof
tested in accordance with clause 17 and was subsequently
examined by a competent person, and that it complies with
the requirements of this standard. It should also state the
name and address of the testing establishment and the
status of the signatory.
The certificate may be the appropriate statutory form,
provided that the above information is given.
9
 BS MA 47 : 1977

Appendix A Appendix C

Recommendations relating to contracts Single sheave blocks: marking of safe working load
It is recommended that a contract for ships' cargo blocks and use in the derrick rig
following the recommendations of this standard should
include provisions on the following lines.
C.2 The safe working load (SWL) of a single sheave block
A.1 Testing. The manufacturer should, a t his own cost,
i s always assessed according to one fundamental condition
supply the necessary labour and appliances for proof
of loading, namely the particular case where the block i s
loading the blocks. In the absence of facilities a t his own
suspended by i t s head fitting and the dead weight or cargo
works, the manufacturer should bear the cost of carrying
load attached to a wire passing round the sheave such that
out such proof loading a t a public test-house.
the hauling part i s parallel to the part to which the load is
A.2 Inspection. The representative of the purchaser should attached (figure 4, case 1). The SWL marked on the block
have access to the works of the manufacturer a t all reason- is the dead weight W that can be safeely lifted by the block
able times: he should be at liberty to inspect the manu- when rigged in this way.
facture of the blocks a t any stage, the testing machine and
C.3 When the block is rigged as in C.2 the resultant force
methods of examination, and to reject any blocks which do
on the head fitting is twice the SWL marked on the block,
not conform to the recommendations of this standard.
¡.e. 2W. It is necessary, therefore, for the block maker to
design the single sheave block capable of taking the
resultant force of 2W. Consequently a proof load of twice
Appendix B
the designed value, ¡.e. 4W, i s applied which is in accordance
with UK Docks Regulations and the I LO Code. The proof
Proof load in relation to safe working load
load of a single sheave block is, therefore, four times the
The following table i s taken from the International Labour SWL marked upon it.
Office pamphlet No. 188, 'Safety and health in dock work'.
( I L 0 Code). C.4 When the block is rigged as a lower cargo block, ¡.e. the
dead weight or cargo load is attached directly to the head
fitting of the block instead of to the rope passing round the
Table 6. Proof load in relation to safe working load sheave (figure 4, case 2a). the SWL marked on the block
is unchanged, ¡.e. it is the same as assessed in C.2. The
Safe working load, W Excess load Proof load* resultant force on the head fitting is only W. The block has
(resultant on head fitting) been designed, however, to comply with the basic condition
- of loading in C.2, ¡.e. to withstand a resultant force on the
tonnes(t1 % t t MNt head fitting of 2W. It follows that the block is, therefore,
25 or less 1 O0 W 2w 0.020w safe to support a dead weight or cargo load of 2W (figure 4,
30 85 25 55 0.55 case 2b) which gives the same force on the block as when
35 30 65 0.65 rigged as in case 1.
40 75 30 70 0.70 Normally it is an infringement of the law to employ a
45 30 75 0.75 lifting appliance to lift a cargo of which the mass exceeds
50 65 35 85 0.85 the SWL marked on the lifting appliance. However, the
55 35 90 0.90 Docks Regulations and the I LO Code specifically permit a
60 60 35 95 0.95 single sheave block to be, in effect, 'over-loaded' when
65 35 1O0 1.o0 rigged in this manner. For example article 295 (2) of the
70 55 40 110 1.10 ILO Code states:
75 40 115 1.15 'In the case of a.single sheave block where the load is
80 50 40 120 1.20 attached directly to the block instead of to the rope
85 40 125 1.25 passing round the sheave, it is permissible to lift a load
90 46 40 130 1.30 . .
equal to twice the SWL of the block. . , '
95 40 135 1.35 C.5 Case 3 in figure 4 is the single sheave block with
1O0 43 45 145 1.45 becket. The dispensation under the Docks Regulations and
110 41 45 155 1.55 the I L 0 Code applies: it is stamped W but can lift 2W. The
120 38 45 165 1.65 only effect of the becket is to reduce the actual tension in
130 36 45 175 1.75 the wire from Wto 2W/3 and in a permanent rig a smaller
140 35 50 190 1.90 size of wire rope could be employed. The safe working load
150 34 50 200 2.00 of a single sheave block fitted with a becket i s assessed in
160 33 55 215 2.25 the same way as other single sheave blocks, namely as in C.2.
170 33 60 230 2.30 Case 4 in figure 4 is a single sheave block with becket used
180 33 60 240 2.40 as an upper cargo block. This is similar to case 1 except that
Over 180 33 - - - there i s an additional load W o n the becket. The total load
on the head fitting i s 3W and a suitable block should be
selected to support this load.
* The proof load is quoted in tonnes for application by weights, and
in meganewtons (MN)for application by testing machine, and also
for design purposes (see appendix GI.
t1MN=106N

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 BSI B S * M A * q 7 7 7 = lb2Libbï 0338382 8 =
BS MA 47 : 1977

C.6 Several arrangements are shown in figure 4 of rigs using
single sheave blocks, and one using a double block. In the
latter case the safe working load is the resultant load on the
head fittings. No forces are indicated and these must be
calculated when designing a rig. In particular the following
points should be considered.
(a) The maximum resultant forces on the head fittings of
blocks attached to the derrick or mast: these forces will
vary according to the angle of the derrick.
(b) The selection of shackles or links for attaching a
block to the derrick or mast. It is important that the
safe working load of shackles or links be a t least equal to
the maximum resultant force.
W
-
2
-
W
2 W
(cl Since the wires in a rig are not always parallel and the
forces increase as the angle of the boom to the horizontal
increases, the true resultant of forces in the wires should
be obtained graphically.
(d) The cumulative effect of friction in a block and
stiffness in a wire rope should be taken into account
when determining the resultant force on the head fittings
of heel blocks, span gear blocks, etc.
C.7 Whilst not obligatory, it is helpful to have all blocks
identified by a letter or number (distinct from the SWL
marking) which corresponds with a letter or number on the
rigging plan. This practice will help to remove the possibility
of a single sheave block being used in an inappropriate
Dosition,
W
2 2
3 w =yw y w 2

Load = @ Load= [2wl Load =

Case 1 Case 2 a
Case 2 b Case 3

I Double
block

Figure 4. Typical

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 BS MA 47 : 1977

P\?OlJOOid +-

1A4s CI

E
E
E
E
E
E
E
o E
E
a E -
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4 E
pai!nbai aidd!u
aseaifi 40 a d A l
.-m
U

ci
Moa iï .

1MSIr

z
O
n
rc
O
~

.-
Y
L

a
5

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Standards
Licensed by Information Handling Services
 BSI B S * M A * 4 7 77 = 3624bbï 0338384 3 m
BS MA 47 : 1977

Appendix E Appendix F
Particulars of screw threads for the shanks of head Care and maintenance of ships' cargo blocks
fittings Ships' cargo blocks should be subjected only to fair and
proper usage. Before loading or discharging, these blocks
should be carefully inspected by a person suitably qualified
Table 8, Particulars of screw threads: IS0 metric to do so, special attention being given to the under-
screw threads, coarse series with graded pitches mentioned precautions.
F.l Swivel head fittings. Examine the nut or collar of
the shank, to ensure that it is securely fastened and free
Major diameter Pitch Core
- from visible defects. See that the shank i s not distorted
and turns freely by hand, and that the clearance is not
First Second Diameterx Area
choice choice excessive. Grease or oil the shank and the bearing surface
- of the nut or collar.
mm mm mm mm mm2 F.2 Binding. Examine for fractures and wastage due to
- - 1.25 7.466 44 corrosion.
10 - 1.5 8.160 52
F.3 Side or partition plates. Examine to see these are
- - 1.5 9.1 60 66 not buckled or distorted. Buckled side or partition plates
12 - I .75 9.853 76 may allow the rope to jam between the sheave or side
- 14 2 11.546 105 and partition plate: this has been the cause of many
16 - 2 13.546 144 accidents.
- 18 2.5 14.933 175 F.4 Sheaves. Examine for cracks. Verify that the bush is
20 - 2.5 16.933 225 not slack in the sheave and is not worn where in contact
- 22 2.5 18.933 282 with the axle pin. See that each sheave turns freely by
24 - 3 20.319 324 hand.
- 27 3 23.319 427 Examine the f i t of the rope in the grooves of the sheaves.
30 - 3.5 25.706 519 This is particularly important when a new rope is first
- 33 3.5 28.706 647 reeved, since a worn sheave may result in a high rate of
36 - 4 3 1 .O92 759 rope wear.
- 39 4 34.092 913 F.5 Axle pins. Examine axle pins for wear; check that
42 - 4.5 36.479 1045 they do not rotate, also that they are securely held in
- 45 4.5 39.479 1224 place to prevent the pins working out of the shell of the
48 - 5 4 1.866 1377 block .
- 52 5 45.866 1652 F.6 Lubrication. It i s impossible to over-emphasize the
56 - 5.5 49.252 1905 necessity for regular and adequate lubrication. If the
- 60 5.5 53.252 2227 block i s not lubricated regularíy and carefully, i t s life i s
- 6 56.639 2520 greatly reduced and the efficiency of the tackle is
64
- 68 6 60.639 2888 impaired.
- - 6 62.639 3082 F.7 Protection. Do not paint the block in such a manner
- 6 64.639 3282 that free movement is impaired or lubrication points or
72
- 6 68.639 3700 grease holes are choked. I t is specially important that
76
- 6 72.639 4144 reference marks should not be obliterated.
80
- 6 77.639 4734 F.8 Cleaning blocks by heating prior t o examination.
85
- 6 82.639 5364 Parts of blocks having been, where necessary, heat
90
- 95 8 85.185 5699 treated in manufacture do not require further heat
treatment in service, except that, after repair or
1O0 - 8 90.185 6388
treatment involving heat, they should be normalized
- - 8 95.185 7116 before being put back in service.
110 - 8 100.185 7892
Neither blocks nor parts should ever be subjected t o
- 115 8 105.185 8690
sub-critical annealing, (¡.e. low temperature annealing
- 120 8 110.185 9535
as applied to wrought iron).
-
F.9 Reeving. When reeving blocks, the wire rope should
be paid out without slack from a reel or coil in.a straight
line to prevent the possibility of kinking or disturbance
NOTE. 8 mm pitch is specified i n the larger sizes to maintain the of the lay of the rope. A coil of rope should be paid out
required depth of thread (see clause I O ) . from a turntable, or alternatively one end of the coil
Neglecting tolerances. should be made free and the remainder rolled along the
deck. In no case should the rope be unwound by
throwing off turns when the coil or reel is flat on the
deck. Terminal seizings should not be removed without
ensuring that the lay of the rope i s held.

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 BSI B S * M A * Y ' i 7 7 3b24bbî 0338385 3
BS MA 47 : 1977

Appendix G

Formulae for rourid section eyes

G.l Elongated eyes

/1\ P= \Bm)
' m f d
(I -75 + s) for L greater than 2.55d

where
P is the proof load (in N, see appendix B)
L i s the internal length (in mm)
B is the internal breadth (in mm)
d is the diameter of material (in mm)
f is the nominal extreme fibre (tensile) stress a t the
proof load:
460 N/mm2 for mild steel
620 N/mm2 for higher tensile steel
930 N/mm2 for alloy steel
When L is less than 2.55dl multiply the formula for P by
the reduction factor 0.22 (2 t L / d ) .

A G.2 Round eyes

p = (Ò>4fd3 )
- for D greater than 2.55d
D + 0.4d
where
Pis the proof load (in N I see appendix BI
D i s the internal diameter (in mm)
d is the diameter of material (in mml
f is the nominal extreme fibre (tensile) stress a t the
proof load:
370 N/mm2 for mild steel
500 N/mm2 for higher tensile steel
740 N/mm2 for alloy steel
When D i s less than 2.55d, multiply the formula for P by
the reduction factor 0.22 (2 + D/d).
NOTE. I n the above formulae, the effect of the collar has been
assumed to add 7.5 % to the strength of an equivalent link, and
20 % to the strength of an equivalent ring.

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 B S I BS*tlA*47 77 = 1624669 0138386 5
BS MA 47 : 1977

Appendix H

Head fittings

(a) Round2eye (bl Stud eye

I;/.Q
(cl Oval eye

t _.

L e
!

---i---

(dl Duck bill eye (e) Double lug (flDouble lug with check piece

(9) 'C' hook with shank (hl Ramshorn hook (i)Fixed bow shackle (j) Fixed dee shackle

kWJ

.-

I !
(k) Plate link

kW&

(rn) Fcrked crosshead

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 BSI B S * M A W 7 7 7 m L b 2 4 6 6 9 0338387 7

BS MA47 :I977
This British Standard, having been prepared under the direction of Contrgct requirements
the Mechanical Engineering Standards Committee, was published Attention is drawn to the fact that this, British Standard does not
under the authority of the Executive Board on30 November 1977. purport to include all the necessary provisions of a contract.
Revision of British Standards
First published as BS 408 in February 1931
British Standards are revised, when necessary, by the issue either of
Revised in 1949 and 1963.
amendment slips or of revised editions. It is important that users of
This revision published as BS MA 47November 1977
British Standards should ascertain that they are in possession of the
@ British Standards Institution, 1977 latest amendments or editions.
ISBN: O 580 09916 4 The following BSI references relate to the work on this standard:
Copyright Committee reference MEE/64 Draft for comment 72/34747 DC
Users of British Standards are reminded that copyright subsists in all
BSI publications. No part of this publication may be reproduced in
any form without the prior permission in writing of BSI.
This does not preclude the free use, in the course of implementing
the standard, of necessary details such as symbols and size, type or
grade designations. Enquiries should be addressed to the
Publications Manager, 101 Pentonville Road, London N1 9ND
(Telephone 01-837 8801; Telex 23218).

Amendments issued since publication

Amd. No. Date of issue Text affected

.
British Standards Institution 2 Park Street London W1A 2BS Telephone 01-629 9000 Telex 266933 A

77111.6k-B

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 -
b
BSI BS*MA*47 77 W 1624667 0338388 7 W

AMD 3721

BSO Amendment Mo. 1

published and effective from 31 August 1981
to BS M A 47 : 1977
(Marine series)
Ships' cargo blocks

Corrections

AMD 3721 Clause G. 1 Elongated eyes

August 1981
In the formula for P delete '2.4' and substitute '0.24'.

8108-1.5k-B SMEI13

.. . .

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