Offshore lifting operations often take place in environments where direct human interaction isn’t possible. That’s where Remotely Operated Vehicles (ROVs) come into play—allowing operators to safely connect, guide, and manage rigging hardware underwater.
One of the most important components in these operations is the ROV shackle. Designed specifically for subsea applications, these shackles feature specialized handles, pins, and locking mechanisms that allow ROV manipulators to operate them efficiently.
In this guide, we’ll walk through the different types of ROV shackles, how they’re used, and what makes each option suited for specific offshore lifting scenarios.
What Is an ROV Shackle?
An ROV shackle is a specially designed lifting shackle built for subsea rigging operations. Unlike standard shackles, these models include features that allow them to be manipulated by an ROV rather than by hand.
Common Features of ROV Shackles
- Specialized design for subsea handling
- High-visibility finishes and corrosion-resistant coatings
- High-strength materials and durable structural construction
- Operational features for easier installation, locking, and release by ROVs
These shackles are widely used in offshore oil and gas, subsea construction, salvage operations, and underwater installation projects.
Types of ROV Shackles
ROV shackles are designed to support a wide range of subsea lifting and rigging operations. Each type offers unique features that improve handling, security, and efficiency when operated by remotely operated vehicles.
Below are several common ROV shackle types used in offshore and subsea projects.
Green Pin Tapered Pin ROV Shackle with D Handle
The Green Pin Tapered Pin ROV Shackle with D Handle is a grade 8 release and retrieve shackle designed specifically for subsea operations. It features a tapered pin and D-shaped handle that allow ROV manipulators to easily align and operate the shackle underwater.
Manufactured from high-strength alloy steel (polar quality) that is quenched and tempered, this shackle is built for demanding offshore conditions. It can accommodate both inline and side-loading applications, making it a versatile option for subsea oil and gas projects.
Green Pin Tapered Pin ROV Shackle with F Handle
The Green Pin Tapered Pin ROV Shackle with F Handle is another grade 8 release and retrieve shackle designed for subsea lifting operations. Instead of a D handle, this model uses a fishtail (F) handle, which provides an alternative gripping configuration for ROV manipulators.
Constructed from alloy steel with polar quality treatment, the shackle is quenched and tempered for durability. Its tapered screw pin design allows for reliable operation during inline and side-loading subsea lifting tasks.
Green Pin Spring Pin ROV Shackle
The Green Pin Spring Pin ROV Shackle is designed primarily for subsea release operations. This grade 8 shackle uses spring pins that help secure the connection while still allowing for controlled release during underwater rigging tasks.
Made from high-strength alloy steel that is quenched and tempered. It can be configured with D-handles or fishtail handles to improve manipulation by ROV arms during installation or release.
Green Pin Locking Clamp ROV Shackle
The Green Pin Locking Clamp ROV Shackle is a grade 8 shackle designed to provide secure connections during subsea lifting operations. Its locking clamp mechanism helps maintain pin security while allowing the shackle to be manipulated easily by ROV tools.
Manufactured from quenched and tempered alloy steel with polar quality treatment, this shackle is commonly used in offshore environments where dependable subsea handling and secure connections are required.
Green Pin Guided Pin ROV Shackle with D Handle
The Green Pin Guided Pin ROV Shackle with D Handle features a guiding tube that helps direct the pin. This design makes it easier for ROV manipulators to position and operate the shackle in subsea conditions.
Built from grade 8 alloy steel with polar quality treatment, the shackle is quenched and tempered for strength and durability. It is commonly used in subsea oil and gas operations, marine construction projects, and deep-sea mining applications.
Green Pin Guided Pin ROV Shackle with F Handle
The Green Pin Guided Pin ROV Shackle with F Handle uses the same guided pin design but incorporates a fishtail handle for alternative ROV handling. The guiding tube helps improve pin alignment while minimizing wear on lifting equipment during operation.
Made from high-strength alloy steel that is quenched and tempered, this shackle supports efficient and reliable subsea lifting in demanding offshore environments.
Green Pin Locking Clamp ROV Sling Shackle
The Green Pin Locking Clamp ROV Sling Shackle is designed specifically for subsea release operations involving slings. This grade 8 shackle features a locking clamp system that secures the connection while allowing ROV manipulators to easily operate it underwater.
Its design makes it particularly well-suited for subsea lifting projects where slings are used to connect equipment or structures during installation or retrieval operations.
Crosby G-2100 / G-2110 ROV Shackles
The Crosby G-2100 and G-2110 ROV shackles are engineered for reliable release and retrieval during subsea operations.
- G-2100 features a QUIC-Thread bolt for efficient installation and removal.
- G-2110 uses a non-thread bolt design for simplified handling.
Both models are widely used in subsea oil and gas, marine construction, and offshore lifting applications where dependable rigging hardware and quick-release capability are important.
Crosby G209 ROV Shackle
The Crosby G-209R ROV Shackle is a forged steel anchor shackle designed for underwater rigging and lifting operations. With capacities ranging from 6.5 to 55 metric tons, it is commonly used in offshore oil and gas projects.
These shackles are built with high-visibility features and durable forged construction, making them easier for ROV operators to identify and manipulate during subsea installations and lifting operations.
Choosing the Right ROV Shackle
Selecting the right ROV shackle depends on several factors, including:
- Load capacity requirements
- Type of lifting connection (slings, equipment, frames)
- ROV tooling capabilities
- Subsea visibility and environmental conditions
- Safety and locking requirements
Because subsea lifting projects often involve complex environments, working with experienced partners can help ensure the correct hardware is selected for the job.
Partner With Dynamic Lifting Solutions for Subsea Rigging Hardware
At Dynamic Lifting Solutions, we understand the challenges offshore teams face when planning subsea lifting operations. Our team works closely with engineering teams, project managers, and field personnel across the Gulf Coast region, including Beaumont, TX, to supply dependable ROV shackles and subsea rigging hardware built for real-world offshore environments.
Whether you’re planning a subsea installation, intervention campaign, or heavy lift, we help ensure the right equipment is available when you need it. If you’re looking for ROV shackles or subsea rigging hardware, contact Dynamic Lifting Solutions to discuss your project requirements.
Dynamic Lifting Solutions provides specialized lifting, testing, and custom fabrication services for construction, offshore, petrochemical, and civil projects across the United States. With years of experience supporting complex and critical lifting operations, we deliver innovative solutions backed by expert engineering, responsive service, and a full range of on-site and in-house testing capabilities.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is an ROV shackle used for?
An ROV shackle is used in subsea lifting and rigging operations where connections must be made or released underwater using remotely operated vehicles (ROVs). These shackles allow operators to safely attach slings, lifting frames, and subsea equipment without direct human intervention.
What makes an ROV shackle different from a standard shackle?
Unlike standard shackles, ROV shackles are designed for remote underwater handling. They typically include specialized handles, guided pins, or locking mechanisms that allow ROV manipulators to install or release the shackle efficiently in subsea environments.
What industries use ROV shackles?
ROV shackles are commonly used in offshore oil and gas, subsea construction, marine operations, and deep-water installation projects. They are essential for underwater lifting tasks where divers cannot safely perform rigging operations.
How do ROV shackles work underwater?
ROV shackles are operated using hydraulically controlled ROV manipulator arms. These robotic arms grip the handle, align the pin, and secure or release the connection depending on the operation. Design features such as tapered pins, guiding tubes, and locking clamps help simplify the process.
How do you choose the right ROV shackle?
Choosing the right ROV shackle depends on several factors, including load capacity, lifting configuration, type of sling or connection point, and the capabilities of the ROV handling the hardware. Working with an experienced lifting equipment provider helps ensure the correct shackle is selected for the application.