Turnbuckles

Turnbuckles for Australian Tensioning, Rigging and Structural Cable Work

Turnbuckles (also called rigging screws) are the threaded tensioning components that adjust and lock the length of wire ropes, chains, and tie-rods. The opposed-thread body (left-hand thread one end, right-hand thread the other) means turning the body tightens or loosens both ends simultaneously — providing fine length adjustment without disconnecting either end. For Australian rigging, structural bracing, balustrade tensioning, and shade-structure installation, turnbuckles are essential. AIMS Industrial supplies turnbuckles in the configurations Australian customers actually need.

The turnbuckle types we stock

• Eye and eye — both ends are rated lifting eyes; for connecting via pins or shackles on both ends
• Hook and eye — quick-connect hook on one end, fixed eye on the other
• Hook and hook — hooks both ends for fast attachment between two pin or eye connections
• Jaw and jaw — clevis pins on both ends for connection to flat plate or threaded rod
• Eye and jaw (combination) — for mixed-fitting installations
• Stub end (open body) — for swaging onto wire rope or specific cable terminations

Materials and finishes

• Galvanised steel — the standard for outdoor and general industrial use
• Stainless steel 316 — for marine, balustrade, and corrosive environments
• Drop-forged versus turned — drop-forged turnbuckles are stronger for the same nominal size

Where turnbuckles earn their place

• Wire rope tensioning — adjusting cable length on rigging, balustrade, shade structures
• Cable bracing — diagonal bracing on towers, frames, and structural cable assemblies
• Fence and gate work — tensioning wire fences and adjustable gate rigging
• Shade sail and architectural cable — adjustable tension for fabric structures
• Marine and yacht rigging — stainless turnbuckles for standing rigging on sailing vessels
• Suspended ceiling and equipment — adjustable suspension where length needs fine control

Sizing — match to working load

Turnbuckle size is by the thread diameter at each end. Common sizes range from M6 through M30, with corresponding working load limits (WLL). Common ratings:

• M6 turnbuckles — typical WLL 230kg
• M8 — typical WLL 360kg
• M10 — typical WLL 600kg
• M12 — typical WLL 850kg
• M16 — typical WLL 1750kg
• M20 — typical WLL 2500kg

The WLL is rated for the smallest cross-section in the assembly — typically the threaded section. Match the turnbuckle to the load by WLL, with appropriate safety factor as specified by the application code (typically 4:1 to 5:1 for general rigging, 5:1 or higher for lifting).

Compliance and rating

Turnbuckles used in lifting applications must be rated to the relevant lifting standard (AS 2550 family) and supplied with traceable manufacturer documentation. For non-lifting structural applications, the relevant building code or design specification governs the rating requirement. Architectural cable applications may require specific compliance documentation for building approval.

Installation and adjustment

Turnbuckles have a left-hand thread on one end and a right-hand thread on the other — turning the body in one direction tightens both ends simultaneously. Lock the adjustment with a lock-nut or split pin once final tension is set, particularly on installations subject to vibration that could cause the body to back off. For applications where the turnbuckle must be tamper-resistant, locking pins through the body prevent inadvertent rotation.

Brands stocked at AIMS

Beaver and Yoke cover the turnbuckle range across the standard sizes and end-fitting combinations. Stainless options are stocked in marine-grade 316. For specialty turnbuckles or large quantities, sourcing through our distribution channels covers most options.

Companion ranges at AIMS

Turnbuckles sit alongside our broader rigging hardware range — see rigging screws, lifting shackles, rope grips, and U-bolts for the related products.

Need help speccing turnbuckles for tensioning, rigging, or structural cable work? contact our team — we'll match by thread size, end fitting, and material.