Caldwell Model 80H Dixon Coil Hook with Pivoting Wedge

The Caldwell Model 80H is a specialized coil lifting hook designed for safe and efficient handling of small to medium steel coils, particularly in applications where coils are stored stacked or where overhead clearance is limited.

It is part of Caldwell’s Strong-Bac coil lifting and upending line and uses a unique pivoting wedge design that helps separate and engage tightly stacked coils for controlled lifting.

This tool is commonly used in steel service centers, fabrication shops, and manufacturing environments where operators need to transition coils from horizontal storage to vertical handling positions.

How It Works

The defining feature of the Model 80H is its pivoting wedge mechanism:

• The wedge is inserted between stacked coils
• It helps gently separate and begin tilting the coil
• The hook then engages and takes over the load
• Once engaged, the coil can be safely lifted and moved

This design reduces the need for manual prying or unstable rigging methods, improving both safety and speed.

Key Features

• Pivoting wedge for engaging stacked coils
• Horizontal-to-vertical coil upending capability
• Designed for small and lightweight coils
• Ideal for tight overhead clearance applications
• Heat-treated wedge for durability
• Acts as a retaining and positioning aid during pickup
• ASME-compliant lifting design

Common Applications

The Model 80H is typically used in:

• Steel coil storage yards
• Metal service centers
• Coil processing facilities
• Manufacturing plants
• Slitting and stamping operations
• Warehouse coil handling
• Fabrication shops

It is especially useful when coils are stored in stacks and need to be safely separated before lifting.

Design Advantages

Safer coil engagement

The wedge helps prevent sudden shifts when inserting the hook, reducing the risk of coil damage or operator strain.

Efficient upending

Designed specifically for moving coils from horizontal to vertical orientation in one controlled operation.

Compact operation

Works well in facilities with limited crane height or tight storage layouts.

Key Limitations

• Designed primarily for horizontal → vertical upending only
• Not intended for vertical → horizontal coil rotation
• Best suited for smaller or lighter coil weights
• Not a general-purpose coil hook like larger C-hooks

Available Capacities (Typical Range)

Model 80H units are commonly available in capacities ranging from:

• 0.5 ton
• 1 ton
• 2 ton
• 3.5 ton
• 5 ton

(Exact configuration depends on width, ID, and coil dimensions.)