Load Pin Shackle vs Load Link: Choosing the Right Load Cell for Your Needs

When it comes to monitoring tension in lifting and rigging applications, two load cell solutions dominate the industry:

• Load Links
• Load Pin Shackles

At LMS, we work with a range of cross-sector clients, from oil and gas and renewables, to marine and subsea, to help select the right equipment for specific operational challenges.

But when it comes to choosing between a load link and a load pin shackle, which is the right piece of equipment for your job?

Let’s break it down.

The benefits of Load Links: practical, economical, and popular

A load link is a brick shaped load cell designed to be installed in line with a lifting or pulling system, often measuring tension between a fixed point and a winch, crane, or another piece of equipment.

Accurate and reliable, our load links are designed for easy mobility and are ideal for on-the-go applications. Built to withstand tough conditions thanks to their durable yet lightweight high tensile aluminium construction, we offer our load links in both cabled and wireless options, providing the flexibility you need for different situations.

Advantages of Load Links:

• Cost-effective: Particularly in lower capacity ranges (1–50 tonnes), load links are generally more economical. Even when you factor in the need for two shackles (top and bottom) they remain the better value option
• Ease of manufacture: LMS load links are easier to produce and source materials for, even at higher capacities
• Safety by design: Our load links are designed to accept only shackles of the appropriate safe working load
• Popular and versatile: The load link is our most widely used product globally, thanks to its affordability, availability, and practicality

However, headroom can be a limiting factor. When you account for the physical size of the link plus two shackles, the total rig length can become problematic, particularly in restricted spaces.

The benefits of Load Pin Shackles: compact, versatile and discreet

A load pin shackle is a standard lifting shackle that has been engineered into a load cell. This makes it ideal for situations where headroom is limited or where a shackle would already be part of the rigging.

Made from durable and compact high tensile steel, our load pin shackles come in capacities ranging from 3.25Te to 2000Te, meeting a wide range of load requirements.

Advantages:

• Space saving: A load pin shackle takes up no more room than a standard shackle
• Discreet and practical: Because they blend into existing rigging setups, load pin shackles can be seamlessly integrated
• Ideal for underwater: In subsea or marine environments, load pin shackles are more practical and economical to waterproof than load links, particularly when working with stainless steel materials
• More cost effective at large capacities: At higher load ratings (i.e 500 to 1000 tonnes), load pin shackles can be more economical than load links, which require two high-capacity shackles in addition to the link

The main drawback is cost at lower capacities. A 25-tonne load pin shackle, for example, can be more costly than a 25-tonne load link. So, the economics often tip in favour of load links at the smaller end of the scale.

From a performance standpoint, there’s actually no significant difference in accuracy. Both meet industry standards and are manufactured with the same safety factors and certifications.

Preparing for hazardous environments

For clients operating in hazardous areas, LMS provides equipment rated for Zone 0, Zone 1 and Zone 2 and put simply, can be explained as:

• Zone 1: Likely presence during normal operations (e.g. near open doors of gas facilities)
• Zone 0: Presence of an explosive atmosphere (for example, a gas-filled space) 
• Zone 2: Infrequent or accidental presence (e.g. downwind in an industrial space)

Stainless Steel load cells can be manufactured to meet the strictest Zone 0 requirements, though this can significantly drive-up costs.

The power of wireless and evolving tech

The days of relying on cabled systems are fading fast. LMS has been a leader in the field of wireless load cell technology, adopting the technology over a decade ago. Now an industry standard, the adaptive technology includes:

• Modular connectivity: Easily connect additional handsets, digital converters, laptops, or software via radio
• Extended battery life: Older systems offered 24 hours of battery power, whereas new models can now deliver between 1400 to 4000 hours depending on battery size
• Remote monitoring: Capture and log data from a distance without the risk of cable damage

LMS is future ready – so what’s next?

We’re now offering Bluetooth enabled load cells that send real time data directly to iOS and Android devices. While Bluetooth has range limitations (up to 100 metres vs 800 metres via a wireless connection), it’s a powerful tool for short range monitoring.

At LMS, we never take a one-size-fits-all approach. Every project, from subsea operations to aquaculture rigging, deserves a tailored load monitoring solution. Our team brings decades of experience, engineering knowledge, and global reach, ensuring clients get the right product, with the right configuration, for their specific needs.

Sometimes, it’s as simple as comparing quotes. Often, clients opt for the more economical or space-efficient option once we chat through the benefits. And with both load links and load pin shackles designed and manufactured in-house, LMS offers flexibility and fast turnaround.

Whether it’s a matter of budget, environment, or ease of integration, the choice between a load link and a load pin shackle depends on the specific demands of your project.

Still unsure? Speak to the experts at LMS and we’ll help you navigate your options and recommend the best fit solution for your needs