Hook for harsh environments
9 May 2007"BKD stands for BK double latch," Gunnebo explained. "We have taken the standard hook and added an extra inward-opening latch as well as built the releasing mechanism into the hook itself," it continued.
Gunnebo technical manager Mikael Lähdesmäki added: "It has been suggested that the latch may open if it is subjected to hard knocks during a storm and major heeling onboard a boat, for example."
The work to develop the new hook started a year ago, and it is expected on the market in the third quarter of 2007. The BKD will be initially released in sizes of 13-20mm, since these are the most common dimensions used by the offshore segment. The range will however be gradually expanded. There will also be the option of retrofitting the BKD latch to existing BK hooks.
Patrik Hill (left) and Mikael Lähdesmäki of Gunnebo Lifting demonstrate the BK double latch Patrik Hill (left) and Mikael Lähdesmäki of Gunnebo Lifting demonstrate the BK double latch
