When it comes to industrial lifting, one of the most overlooked yet critical challenges is side pulling. This is a situation where the load is applied at an angle rather than straight in line with the lifting point. Traditional lifting eye bolts were never designed for this, and using them under side load conditions can result in misalignment, shock loading, reduced Working Load Limits (WLL), and even catastrophic load failure. To combat these risks, modern operations are transitioning from standard eye bolts to advanced lifting points engineered specifically for multi-directional loading. One standout solution leading the industry today is the Gunnebo Industries LPE Series Lifting Point.
Why Side Pull Lifts Demand More Than Standard Eye Bolts?
Standard eye bolts are traditionally designed for straight lifting only. When exposed to lateral force, they easily bend, rotate unintentionally, or fail under stress, which exposes people, equipment, and materials to severe hazards. Misalignment increases internal stresses, causes unstable lifting geometry, and can trigger dangerous shock loading. This problem becomes even more critical in environments where molds, dies, machinery, and heavy equipment must be lifted from challenging positions or non‑vertical angles.
How the Gunnebo Industries LPE Series Solves Side Pull Challenges
The Gunnebo Industries LPE Lifting Point is purpose-built to replace standard eye bolts and eliminate their major limitations (especially under side load conditions).
1. Patented Bail Design Prevents Shock Loading
The LPE features a patented bail design engineered to minimise the risk of shock loading during side pulls, significantly improving safety and stability.
2. True 360° Rotation Under Load
Thanks to integrated ball bearings, the lifting point offers smooth 360° rotation under load, maintaining correct load orientation and dramatically reducing misalignment.
3. Designed Specifically for Side Loading
The LPE’s optimised geometry ensures predictable performance and load distribution even when force is applied at an angle. It is a safer alternative where traditional eye bolts fail under side pull.
4. Multiple Installation Options for Secure Mounting
Hand tightening, hex wrench, or spanner installation options ensure secure and proper mounting in various configurations that are critical for maintaining alignment integrity.
5. High-Visibility Finish for Safety
Its signature high-visibility GrabiQ colour helps operators quickly verify proper lifting point position and orientation.
6. Fully Tested to EN Standards
The LPE Series includes clear load markings, temperature-based performance data, and inspection guidelines, giving lifting professionals confidence in demanding environments.
Where Misalignment and Failure Risks Commonly Occur
Side pull lifting is common across multiple sectors:
- Mold & die handling
- Motor, gearbox, and machinery maintenance
- Heavy component positioning
- Tight-space industrial environments
- Equipment installed in fixed and angled mounting positions
In these scenarios, using standard eye bolts increases failure risk. The LPE Series, however, is built for precisely these conditions.
The LPE Advantage Compared to Traditional Eye Bolts