Caldwell Model BD Non-Locking Plate Lifting Clamp

Renfroe Model BD Vertical Non-Locking Plate Lifting Clamp — Lightweight, Low-Cost Steel Handling

The Renfroe Model BD is a vertical-lift, non-locking plate clamp designed for steel warehousing and bench work applications where a locking-type clamp is not required. Rated at 0.5 tons capacity, the BD-00.50-A is engineered for operations where constant tension is maintained on the lifting shackle throughout the entire lift. It is manufactured by The Caldwell Group in Beloit, WI, and carries the trusted RENFROE brand name backed by more than 50 years of international lifting clamp use.

Unlike locking-style clamps, the Model BD prioritizes affordability and simplicity for environments where load conditions remain controlled and constant shackle tension is ensured. Its compact, lightweight construction reduces operator fatigue and makes it well suited for repetitive steel handling tasks on the shop floor or in the yard.

Key Features & Benefits

Non-Locking Design for Constant-Tension Applications

The Model BD is specifically engineered for use where constant tension is applied to the lifting shackle throughout the entire operation. This makes it the right tool for controlled warehouse and bench environments where a locking mechanism is unnecessary, reducing complexity and cost.

Lightweight and Compact Construction

At just 6 lbs. and with an overall length of 10.38 in., the Model BD is easy to handle and position during steel plate lifts. The compact size allows use in tighter workspaces where heavier or larger clamps would be impractical.

Low-Cost, Low-Maintenance Tool

The Model BD is designed from the ground up as a budget-conscious tool with minimal maintenance requirements. For operations running high volumes of steel plate movement, this translates directly to lower total cost of ownership over time.

Vertical-Only Lift Orientation

The clamp is rated exclusively for vertical lifting, keeping its application envelope clearly defined and safe. Using a vertical-only clamp in its intended orientation ensures consistent, predictable gripping performance on steel plate.

Accepts Plates Up to 1 In. Thick

With a maximum plate thickness capacity of 1 in., the BD-00.50-A handles a broad range of common steel plate stock found in warehousing and fabrication environments. The jaw opening accommodates plate without requiring tool adjustment between similar stock sizes.

Common Applications

Steel Warehouse Plate Handling

The Model BD is primarily used in steel warehouses for moving individual steel plates vertically. It is designed for environments where organized, controlled lifts are performed repeatedly throughout a shift.

Bench Work and Fabrication Support

In fabrication shops and bench work settings, the BD clamp enables operators to reposition steel plate efficiently without requiring a locking clamp. Constant tension from the rigging keeps the clamp engaged throughout the operation.

Single-Plate Vertical Lifts

The Model BD is intended for lifting one plate at a time in a vertical orientation. It should not be used to lift plate horizontally or to lift from the bottom of a plate stack.

Compatible Materials

• Steel plate (flat stock)
• Steel members suitable for vertical plate clamp engagement

Product Documents

• Download Catalog
• Download Operator's Manual
• Lifting Clamp Survey Report
• Lifting Tool Inventory and Maintenance Form
• Minimum Recommended Clamp Inspections
• Renfroe Repair Kits Catalog

Application Instructions

Before Use

1. Read and understand the full Operator's Manual before putting the clamp into service. Bring the manual to your supervisor prior to first use.
2. Inspect the clamp before each lift. Follow all inspection and maintenance instructions in the Operator's Manual.
3. Confirm the plate thickness is within the rated range (0 – 1 in.) for the BD-00.50-A.
4. Confirm the load does not exceed the rated capacity of 0.5 tons.
5. Use a flexible connection between the crane hook and the clamp shackle. Do not attach the clamp directly to the crane hook or use a heavy flexible connection.

During the Lift

1. Ensure constant tension is applied to the lifting shackle throughout the entire operation. This clamp is non-locking and relies on continuous tension to maintain grip.
2. Lift only a single plate at a time. Do not lift more than one plate at a time with this vertical clamp.
3. Lift in a vertical orientation only. Do not lift plate horizontally with this vertical-lift-only clamp.
4. Do not side-load the clamp.
5. Do not lift over workers, safety areas, or personnel.
6. Use enough clamps to balance the load. Do not lift loads that are not balanced.
7. Do not lift plate from the bottom of a plate stack.

Maintenance

1. Follow the inspection and maintenance schedule outlined in the Operator's Manual.
2. Use only genuine RENFROE replacement parts to ensure proper operation of the clamp. Do not substitute non-OEM components.
3. Do not grind, weld, or modify the clamp in any manner.
4. Use the Lifting Clamp Survey Report and Lifting Tool Inventory and Maintenance Form to track clamp condition and service history.

Technical Specifications

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can the Model BD be used to lift plate horizontally?
A: No. The Model BD is rated for vertical lifting only. Using a vertical-lift-only clamp to lift plate horizontally is explicitly prohibited per the Operator's Manual.

Q: Does the Model BD lock closed when not under tension?
A: No. The Model BD is a non-locking clamp. It is designed for applications where constant tension is maintained on the lifting shackle throughout the entire operation. If constant tension cannot be guaranteed during a lift, a locking-type clamp should be used instead.

Q: Can I lift more than one plate at a time with the Model BD?
A: No. The Operator's Manual specifically prohibits lifting more than one plate at a time with a vertical clamp.

Q: Can I attach the Model BD directly to the crane hook?
A: No. A flexible connection must be used between the crane hook and the clamp shackle. Do not attach the clamp directly to the crane hook or use a heavy flexible connection.

Q: What replacement parts should be used with the Model BD?
A: Only genuine RENFROE replacement parts should be used to ensure proper operation. The Renfroe Repair Kits Catalog is available for download above. Do not modify, grind, or weld the clamp.