Caldwell Model ST Slab Tongs

Caldwell Model ST Slab Tongs — Surface-Safe Lifting for Concrete, Stone & Metal Slabs

The Caldwell Model ST Slab Tongs are a professional-grade construction lifting tool engineered specifically for handling dry slabs of concrete, stone, and metal where surface protection is non-negotiable. Featuring curved polyurethane gripping pads as standard, the Model ST conforms to a wide range of slab thicknesses and surface profiles without scratching, marring, or otherwise damaging the load. These tongs are built for use on job sites where expensive, finished, or delicate slabs must be repositioned or placed with precision. The product complies fully with ASME standards, making it appropriate for regulated construction environments.

Unlike conventional steel-jaw tongs that risk surface damage, the Model ST uses curved polyurethane pads that distribute clamping force evenly and protect smooth or finished surfaces throughout the lift. A built-in manual latch locks the tong arms in position for controlled load engagement, reducing misalignment risk during placement — a critical advantage when working with precision-cut stone or architectural concrete panels.

Key Features & Benefits

Polyurethane Gripping Surfaces

Polyurethane pads are included as standard on every Model ST unit. This material provides a firm, non-slip grip on smooth surfaces including polished stone and finished concrete while preventing the scratching and marring that bare steel jaws would cause. For contractors handling high-value or finish-sensitive loads, this eliminates the need for protective wrapping or secondary padding steps on site.

Curved Pad Geometry

The curved profile of the gripping pads ensures full surface contact across a broad range of slab thicknesses and surface conditions. This geometry means the tongs self-align to the load, reducing setup time and improving grip consistency without manual adjustment. It also extends the usable range of slab sizes a single unit can handle, reducing the need to swap equipment between lifts.

Manual Latch with Arm Lock

A manual latch is standard on all Model ST units and locks the tong arms prior to load engagement. This allows operators to position the tongs precisely on the slab before the lift begins, preventing premature closure or misalignment. In tight placement scenarios — such as setting paving stones or interior floor slabs — this control is essential for accurate positioning and crew safety.

Wide Load Width Range

Each model in the ST series accommodates a significant range of load widths, from as narrow as 1 inch up to 22 inches depending on the selected model. This versatility means a single pair of tongs can handle multiple slab formats on a mixed job site without requiring multiple lifting tools. Contractors can reduce equipment overhead while maintaining the flexibility to work across different slab specifications.

ASME Standards Compliance

All Model ST Slab Tongs comply with ASME standards, ensuring they meet the safety and performance benchmarks required on regulated job sites and for insured lifting operations. Compliance reduces liability exposure for contractors and provides assurance to site supervisors and project owners that the lifting equipment meets industry-accepted criteria.

Broad Rated Capacity Range Across Models

The Model ST series spans rated capacities from 100 lbs to 1,500 lbs, allowing contractors to select the appropriate unit for their specific slab weights without overspecifying or underspecifying lifting capacity. Selecting the correct capacity rating also ensures the safest and most efficient lift for each application.

Common Applications

Concrete Slab Positioning

The Model ST is purpose-built for lifting and positioning dry concrete slabs on construction sites. The polyurethane pads protect formed or finished concrete surfaces during placement, ensuring the slab arrives at its final position undamaged.

Natural Stone Handling

Cut and finished natural stone — including granite, marble, limestone, and sandstone — requires careful handling to avoid surface damage. The Model ST's non-marring pads make it suitable for use in stone yards, masonry work, and architectural stonework installation.

Metal Plate Lifting

Smooth or coated metal slabs and plates can be lifted without surface abrasion using the Model ST. This makes it appropriate for steel fabrication, plate installation, and equipment base setting where surface finish must be preserved.

Architectural and Decorative Panel Installation

Decorative concrete and stone panels used in building facades or interior design require a lifting solution that will not compromise their finished appearance. The Model ST provides the surface-safe grip needed for these high-visibility applications.

Paving and Hardscape Installation

Large-format paving stones and hardscape slabs can be lifted and set precisely using the Model ST. The manual latch and wide load width range accommodate the variety of paver sizes encountered in commercial hardscape projects.

Precast Concrete Component Handling

Precast concrete elements that must be handled without surface damage during transport or installation on site are well-suited to the Model ST. The tongs' ASME compliance also supports use in regulated precast plant environments.

Compatible Materials

• Dry concrete slabs (precast and site-cast)
• Natural stone (granite, marble, limestone, sandstone, and similar)
• Metal plates and slabs (steel, aluminum, and other smooth-surfaced metals)
• Architectural and decorative concrete panels
• Large-format paving stones and hardscape units
• Other expensive or delicate flat load materials requiring surface protection

Available Models

Product Documents

• Download Catalog — Caldwell Master Catalog Page 194

Technical Specifications

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can the Model ST be used on wet or freshly poured concrete?
A: No. The Model ST is designed specifically for dry slabs. It is not rated or intended for use on wet, green, or uncured concrete. For wet concrete applications, a different lifting method is required.

Q: Will the polyurethane pads leave marks or residue on polished stone?
A: The polyurethane pads are selected for their non-marring properties on smooth surfaces including polished stone. Under normal operating conditions they will not scratch or leave residue. However, the condition of the pads should be inspected regularly — worn or contaminated pads should be replaced before use on finish-critical surfaces.

Q: How do I select the correct model for my application?
A: Select based on three criteria: the weight of the slab (rated capacity), the thickness of the slab (load width range), and the available headroom at the lift point. Cross-reference these three values against the model specification table to identify the appropriate unit.

Q: What does the manual latch do and when should it be engaged?
A: The manual latch locks the tong arms in the open position, allowing the operator to position the tongs over the slab before releasing them to grip. Engage the latch before approaching the load, position the tongs, then release the latch so the arms can close and grip the slab under the load's weight.

Q: Are replacement polyurethane pads available?
A: Contact Caldwell directly at 800.628.4263 or 815.229.5667 to inquire about replacement pads and spare parts for the Model ST series. Keeping pads in good condition is critical for surface protection and safe lifting performance.

Q: Does the Model ST comply with OSHA or ASME lifting standards?
A: The Model ST Slab Tongs comply with ASME standards. For specific OSHA compliance questions related to your job site's requirements, consult your site safety plan and verify against current OSHA regulations for rigging and material handling equipment.