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Renfroe

Technical Specifications & Rigging Reference

J.C. Renfroe Steel Plate Lifting Clamps — Models FR, L, AST & DG Guide

Manufactured in Jacksonville, Florida by J.C. Renfroe & Sons (Caldwell/Renfroe), Renfroe vertical locking and horizontal plate lifting clamps are the American steel-industry standard for turning, pitching, and transporting structural steel plate from 1/2 Ton to 20 Tons WLL.

Model FR & Model L Vertical Locking Clamps

Spring-loaded closed/open lock mechanism with serrated tool-steel cam jaws for 180° plate turning (flat to vertical and back) and vertical transport.

Model AST & Model DG Horizontal Clamps

Engineered for use in pairs with a 2-leg chain or wire rope bridle to lift and transport horizontal steel plates, bundles, and structural shapes.

100% Made in USA & Serviceable Parts

Forged and machined in the USA with replaceable cam jaws, grippers, pins, and shackle bails per ASME B30.20 Below-the-Hook Lifting Devices.

Renfroe Plate Lifting Clamp Series Overview & Application Guide
Renfroe Model Series Lift Orientation Locking Mechanism Capacity Range Jaw Opening Range Primary Steel Application
Model FR Vertical & 180° Turning Lock Open / Lock Closed 0.5 – 3.0 Tons 0" – 1-1/2" General vertical plate handling & fab shop turning
Model L / LPA Vertical & 180° Turning Lock Open / Lock Closed + Pivoting Bail 0.5 – 20.0 Tons 0" – 4"+ Heavy structural plate, angled picks & shipyard fab
Model AST / A Vertical / Multi-Angle Lock Open / Lock Closed 0.5 – 8.0 Tons 0" – 2"+ Structural steel beams, tees & plate fabrication
Model DG Horizontal (Used in Pairs) Cam-Action Horizontal Grip 1.5 – 15.0 Tons 0" – 3" Horizontal plate transfer & burn-table loading

Capacity Charts, Inspection Guides & Related Rigging Categories

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between a Renfroe Model FR and a Renfroe Model L plate clamp?
Both feature Renfroe’s Lock-Open / Lock-Closed cam mechanism for 180° plate turning, while the Model L adds a heavier frame and a pivoting shackle bail that accommodates side loading and higher capacities up to 20 Tons.
Can a Renfroe vertical clamp lift more than one steel plate at a time?
No. Vertical plate clamps (Model FR, Model L, Model AST) must only lift one plate at a time. To lift multiple stacked plates horizontally, use horizontal clamps (such as Model DG) rigged in pairs.
What steel hardness are standard Renfroe clamp jaws rated to grip?
Standard Renfroe serrated cam jaws and swivel pads are designed for carbon and structural steels up to 300 Brinell hardness (approx. 32 HRC).
How do you engage the Lock-Closed lever on a Renfroe vertical clamp?
Slide the clamp jaws fully onto the plate until the plate contacts the bottom of the throat, move the locking lever to the 'Lock Closed' position to apply spring preload to the cam, and verify jaw bite as tension comes onto the hoist.
Are genuine Renfroe replacement cam kits and rebuild parts available?
Yes. Because Renfroe clamps are built with replaceable wear components and individual serial numbers, cam assemblies, swivel jaw pads, pins, and springs can be inspected and replaced per ASME B30.20.
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