Hot-Dip Galvanized Z-Type Right-Angle Clevis Link Fitting
The Z-type right-angle clevis is a load-bearing connection fitting used in overhead transmission and distribution-line hardware assemblies. Its offset clevis structure changes the connection plane by 90 degrees, allowing two fittings with different connection orientations to be assembled into an insulator string, suspension set or strain set.
The fitting normally consists of a galvanized Z-type body, connecting bolts or clevis pins, hex nuts and retaining cotter pins. The bolted structure allows the fitting to be assembled with compatible insulator hardware, suspension clamps, strain clamps, protective fittings and tower-side attachment components.
Typical models include Z-7, Z-10, Z-12, Z-16, Z-21 and Z-21100. Each model has different clevis openings, pin or bolt diameters, connection height and nominal mechanical load. The selected model must match the mechanical rating and interface dimensions of every adjacent fitting in the assembly.
Important: The voltage rating of an overhead-line assembly cannot be determined from the Z-type clevis alone. Selection is primarily based on mechanical load, connection dimensions, hardware compatibility, environmental conditions and the approved insulator-string drawing.
Key Features
- Right-angle structure changes the connection plane by 90 degrees
- Designed for suspension and strain insulator-string assemblies
- Bolted clevis connection for convenient field installation
- Cotter-pin retention helps prevent accidental pin withdrawal
- Multiple mechanical load classes and connection dimensions available
- Hot-dip galvanized surface for outdoor corrosion protection
- Suitable for overhead transmission lines, distribution lines and substations
- Custom dimensions, markings and packaging available according to approved drawings
Typical Technical Specifications
| Product Type | Z-Type Right-Angle Clevis / Right-Angle Link Fitting |
|---|---|
| Models Shown | Z-21100 and a smaller Z-series model requiring confirmation |
| Connection Direction | 90-degree change of connection plane |
| Body Material | Steel according to model and approved drawing |
| Fastener Material | Carbon steel bolt or clevis pin with steel nut |
| Retaining Component | Cotter pin / split pin |
| Surface Finish | Hot-dip galvanized |
| Connection Type | Clevis-to-clevis bolted connection |
| Application | Insulator strings, suspension sets, strain sets and tower-side hardware |
| Reference Standard | DL/T 759-2023 and GB/T 2314-2008 |
| Customization | Model, load class, clevis opening, bolt diameter, connection height, marking and packaging |
Representative Model Data
| Model | Clevis Opening C1 | Clevis Opening C2 | Bolt Diameter | Connection Height | Nominal Failure Load |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Z-7 / Z-0780 | 18 mm | 18 mm | 16 mm | 80 mm | 70 kN |
| Z-21100 | 24 mm | 26 mm | 24 mm | 100 mm | 210 kN |
The model data above is a representative selection reference. Final dimensions, tolerances, material, fastener configuration and mechanical rating must be confirmed using Jiujin Power’s approved drawing and corresponding test documentation.
How the Z-Type Clevis Works
The two connection ends of the Z-type clevis are arranged in different planes. This enables the fitting to connect components whose clevis openings or attachment directions would otherwise be incompatible.
Unlike an ordinary straight shackle, the Z-type fitting is specifically designed to provide a controlled 90-degree change in connection orientation while transmitting the tensile load through the complete hardware assembly.
Typical Assembly Positions
- Between tower-side hardware and an insulator string
- Between two connection fittings with perpendicular openings
- Within a suspension insulator-string assembly
- Within a strain or dead-end insulator-string assembly
- Between insulator hardware and suspension or strain clamps
- Between protective hardware and other string fittings
- In substation busbar and equipment-connection assemblies where specified
Material and Construction
The fitting body is manufactured from steel selected according to the required mechanical load and approved product drawing. Depending on the model, the body may be produced using forming, forging, casting or another controlled manufacturing process.
The main bolt or clevis pin transfers the mechanical load between the connected components. A hex nut and cotter pin or equivalent retaining system prevents unintended disassembly during operation.
The property-class markings visible on the bolts in the product photograph apply only to those photographed samples. The required fastener grade for production orders must be confirmed according to the exact model, drawing and mechanical test requirements.
Hot-Dip Galvanized Surface
The steel components are normally hot-dip galvanized to protect the fitting against atmospheric corrosion during outdoor service. Coating appearance may vary from bright silver to matte grey depending on steel composition, component geometry, galvanizing conditions and storage history.
Required zinc-coating thickness, coating mass, adhesion and test method should be stated in the purchase specification. Additional corrosion-protection requirements may be necessary for coastal, industrial, tropical or highly polluted environments.
Mechanical Selection
The nominal failure load of the selected Z-type clevis must be coordinated with the mechanical rating of the complete insulator-string assembly. A higher model number does not automatically make the product suitable for a particular project.
Selection should consider:
- Specified mechanical or ultimate failure load
- Clevis opening at both connection ends
- Bolt or pin diameter
- Overall connection height
- Width and thickness of adjacent fittings
- Required articulation and movement
- Environmental corrosion category
- Applicable utility standard and approved assembly drawing
Installation Guidance
- Verify the model, mechanical rating and dimensions against the approved insulator-string drawing.
- Confirm that both clevis openings match the thickness and connection width of the adjacent fittings.
- Inspect the body, bolts, nuts, pin holes and galvanized coating before installation.
- Align the connected fittings without forcing or enlarging the holes.
- Insert the specified bolt or clevis pin through the complete connection.
- Install and secure the nut according to the approved assembly requirement.
- Insert the cotter pin fully and open or lock it using the specified method.
- Check that the assembled fitting can articulate as intended without binding against adjacent components.
- Replace fittings showing cracks, permanent deformation, damaged threads or severe coating damage.
Quality Inspection
- Raw-material verification
- Model and permanent-marking inspection
- Clevis opening and bolt-hole dimensional inspection
- Bolt, nut and cotter-pin assembly inspection
- Visual inspection for cracks, laps, sharp edges or permanent deformation
- Hot-dip galvanized coating appearance and thickness inspection
- Mechanical failure-load testing when specified
- Packaging, quantity and traceability inspection
Reference Standards
- DL/T 759-2023 – Link fittings
- GB/T 2314-2008 – General technical requirements for electric power fittings
- ISO 1461:2022 – Hot-dip galvanized coatings on fabricated iron and steel articles
- IEC 61284 – Requirements and tests for overhead-line fittings, when applicable to the agreed product
- Applicable utility specifications and approved project drawings
Reference to a standard does not constitute certification. Compliance must be supported by drawings, inspection records and test reports covering the exact model supplied.
Ordering Information
Please provide the following information when requesting a quotation:
- Required model, such as Z-7 or Z-21100
- Required nominal mechanical load
- Clevis opening at both connection ends
- Bolt or pin diameter
- Connection height and overall dimensions
- Material and manufacturing requirements
- Hot-dip galvanized coating requirement
- Adjacent fitting models or complete assembly drawing
- Applicable standard and required test reports
- Quantity, marking and packaging requirements
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the purpose of a Z-type right-angle clevis?
It changes the connection plane by 90 degrees so that two overhead-line fittings with different connection orientations can be assembled correctly.
Is it the same as a U-type shackle?
No. A U-type shackle generally provides a direct connection in one principal plane. A Z-type clevis has an offset structure specifically designed to change the connection orientation.
Does Z-21100 mean the fitting is rated at 21 kN?
No. For the commonly used Z-21100 model designation, the corresponding nominal failure-load class is 210 kN. Final performance must still be verified against the approved drawing and test report.
Can this fitting be selected according to voltage alone?
No. The mechanical load, connection dimensions and complete insulator-string design are the primary selection factors. Voltage level alone is not sufficient.
Can custom dimensions be supplied?
Custom production is possible according to an approved drawing. Clevis openings, bolt diameter, connection height, material, coating and marking must be confirmed before production.
