Open Wedge Sockets
Open Wedge Sockets

Open Wedge Sockets combine positive attachment with optimum versatility.

Easy-to-change Johnson Wedge Sockets are a high strength cast alloy steel with charpy value of 25 lbs/ft at -4° F. Each socket accepts at least two different ductile iron wedges. This allows the socket to be used with more than one rope size. Together, wedge and body act as a vise which grips the wire rope and locks it into place. The headed attachment pin is standard and has a charpy value of 25 lbs/ft at -4° F.

Open Wedge Socket WS-6Open Wedge Socket WS-6Johnson Wedge Sockets may be
used with multiple sizes of wire rope.

To switch from an overhaul ball application calling for a 7/8-inch wire rope to a block application calling for a 1-inch rope, it is not necessary to buy a complete wedge socket. A simple change-out of wedges will suffice. Of the 18 models of wedge sockets offered by Johnson Blocks, all but one, the FS-26, can be adapted to at least two sizes of wire rope. The WS-5, in fact, will adapt to three: 1/2, 9/16, and 5/8 inches.
Be sure that the wedge is correct for the wire rope size.
Each socket manufactured by Johnson Blocks has a model number and acceptable rope sizes cast into its body. Each wedge has the rope size and particular socket model it will fit. Wedges are also coded by means of color. Red indicates that the wedge is for the largest size of wire rope stated on its socket. Green indicates that the wedge is for the smallest size of rope stated on its socket. Blue indicates that the wedge if for a rope size of 9/16 inches. At the time of shipment each socket assembly is clearly identified by a steel-banded plastic tag stating: WEDGE IN THIS SOCKET IS FOR (SIZE) WIRE ROPE ONLY.
When using wedge sockets note
that two precautions should be taken.WS-10 Wedge Socket
  1. Make sure that a sudden jolt or impact does not dislodge a wedge. When installing wire rope, always pre-load the wedge with wire rope in place. Check frequently to re-tighten or re-position as necessary.
  2. Make allowance for the crimping effect common with all types of wedge sockets. Experience shows that it will reduce the Safe Working Limit of a line by 20 percent.
Effect of Crimping Action of Wedge Socket on
Safe Working Limits of Wire Rope*
Wire
Rope
O.D.
(Inches)		 Weight
Per
Foot
(Pounds)		 Line S.W.L.
Without
Wedge
Socket
(Tons)		 Line S.W.L.
With
Wedge
Socket
(Tons)
3/8
1/2
9/16
5/8
3/4
7/8
1
1-1/8
1-1/4
1-1/2
.26
.46
.59
.72
1.04
1.42
1.85
2.34
2.89
4.16
1.6
2.9
3.6
4.5
6.4
8.7
11.2
14.1
17.4
24.7
1.3
2.3
2.9
3.6
5.1
7.0
9.0
11.3
13.9
19.8
*Figures based on 20% reduction in safe working limit
of single line having 4 to 1 design factor.