Caldwell Model RLT Rail Tongs — 1 & 2 Ton

Caldwell Model RLT Rail Tongs — Automatic-Adjust Lifting Tongs for Standard Rail Handling

The Caldwell Model RLT Rail Tongs are purpose-built lifting devices designed for contractors and rail professionals who need to handle standard ASCE rail sections safely and efficiently. These tongs automatically adjust to grip any standard size rail, eliminating the need for manual repositioning between different rail profiles. Available in 1-ton and 2-ton rated capacities, they are engineered to integrate with crane and hoist systems for overhead lifting operations on construction and infrastructure job sites.

Unlike generic material handling clamps, the Model RLT is specifically sized and rated to handle the full range of standard ASCE rail weights — from 30 lb/yard up to 100 lb/yard — making them a versatile single tool across multiple rail specifications. The machined diamond-face gripping pads and ASME-compliant design set this product apart from non-rated alternatives, providing the documentation and performance reliability that professional contractors and project owners require.

Key Features & Benefits

Automatic Tong Adjustment

The tongs self-adjust to grip any standard rail size without manual reconfiguration. This saves setup time on site and reduces the risk of improper fitment when switching between different rail profiles during a single project.

Non-Slip Machined Diamond-Face Gripping Pads

The gripping pads feature a machined diamond face pattern that bites into the rail surface to resist slippage under load. This is critical when lifting dense steel rail sections where a lost grip could result in serious injury or equipment damage.

1-Ton and 2-Ton Rated Capacities

Two distinct capacity models — 109-1 at 1 ton and 109-2 at 2 tons — allow contractors to select the right tool for the rail weights being handled. The 2-ton model accommodates heavier rail stock up to 100 lb/yard, suitable for mainline rail infrastructure work.

ASME Standards Compliance

Compliance with ASME standards provides the safety documentation and engineering validation required by project owners, safety inspectors, and crane operators. This makes the RLT suitable for regulated job sites where non-compliant lifting hardware would be rejected.

Handles All Standard ASCE Rail Sizes

Designed specifically to work with standard ASCE rail profiles ranging from 30 lb/yard to 100 lb/yard (model dependent), the RLT covers the full spectrum of rail commonly used in construction, transit, and industrial rail applications.

Controlled Lift Requirement — Balanced Load Design

The RLT is designed with the understanding that the load must be balanced and controlled during lifting. This engineering consideration encourages proper rigging practice and ensures the tongs perform as rated when used correctly.

Common Applications

Rail Construction and Track Laying

The RLT is the primary tool for lifting and positioning individual rail sections during track construction, allowing crane operators to place rail precisely without manual handling at ground level.

Rail Replacement and Maintenance

When removing worn or damaged rail sections from existing track, the RLT enables safe overhead extraction and repositioning, minimizing downtime and manual labor exposure.

Rail Yard and Staging Area Material Handling

In staging and storage environments, the RLT allows forklifts and cranes to efficiently move individual rail lengths or bundled sections between storage rows and delivery vehicles.

Infrastructure and Transit Project Sites

Transit agencies, light rail contractors, and heavy rail infrastructure firms use the RLT where ASME-compliant lifting equipment is specified by contract or safety plan.

Industrial Facility Rail Installation

Facilities installing in-plant rail systems for overhead cranes, material handling bridges, or process equipment use the RLT to position rail sections during installation without damage to the rail profile.

Compatible Materials

• Standard ASCE rail sections — 30 lb/yard to 40 lb/yard (1-ton model)
• Standard ASCE rail sections — 50 lb/yard to 100 lb/yard (2-ton model)
• All standard ASCE rail profiles
• Steel rail — construction, transit, and industrial grades

Available Models

Product Documents

• Download Caldwell Master Catalog Page 209 — Model RLT Rail Tongs

Technical Specifications

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Do these tongs require manual adjustment when switching between different rail profiles?
A: No. The Model RLT tongs self-adjust automatically to fit any standard size rail within their rated range, so no manual reconfiguration is needed when switching between rail profiles on the same job site.

Q: What rail sizes can each model handle?
A: The 1-ton model (109-1) handles standard ASCE rail from 30 to 40 lb/yard. The 2-ton model (109-2) handles standard ASCE rail from 50 to 100 lb/yard. Both models are designed exclusively for standard ASCE rail profiles.

Q: Are the RLT Rail Tongs ASME-compliant for regulated job sites?
A: Yes. The Model RLT complies with ASME standards, making them suitable for project sites where certified or standards-compliant lifting hardware is required by contract, safety plan, or local regulation.

Q: What type of crane or hoist connection is required to use these tongs?
A: The RLT connects to crane or hoist systems via a standard lifting hook at the top of the tong assembly. The load must be balanced and controlled during lifting — consult your rigging plan to confirm compatibility with your lifting equipment.

Q: Why are there two different minimum opening dimensions between the 1-ton and 2-ton models?
A: The minimum opening reflects the smallest rail base width each model is designed to grip. The 1-ton model opens to a minimum of 3 in., suited to lighter, narrower ASCE rail sections, while the 2-ton model has a 5 in. minimum opening to properly engage the wider base of heavier rail profiles.

Q: Can pricing be confirmed at the time of order?
A: Caldwell notes that pricing is subject to change due to supply chain fluctuations. Contact Caldwell directly at 800-628-4263 or your Diamond Tool Store sales representative for current pricing before placing an order.