The Camlok DBT, DA and DAF drum grabs are adjustable-jaw lifting attachments for lifting drums and barrels in both upright and horizontal orientations. The DBT (TFA D series, 300 kg WLL) is the standard heavy-duty unit with a 400–600 mm jaw range; the DA (TFA-R series, 350 kg WLL) is a low-headroom variant with a 420–700 mm jaw range; and the DAF (TFA-TR series, 350 kg WLL) extends the low-headroom DA concept with additional handling features. All three engage the drum body via adjustable jaws — no rim contact required.
Key Features
- Adjustable jaw range — accommodates drums and barrels from 400 mm (DBT) or 420 mm up to 700 mm diameter — no need to size separately for each drum type.
- Body grip — no rim contact — engages the drum body rather than the rim, suitable for drums without intact chimes or where rim integrity is uncertain.
- Low-headroom variants — the DA and DAF are designed for use under low overhead clearance — ideal for confined spaces and tight gantries.
- Two capacity ratings — DBT at 300 kg, DA and DAF at 350 kg WLL.
- Forged construction — designed for industrial drum handling.
Technical Specifications
| Model |
Type |
WLL |
Jaw Range |
Unit Weight |
| DBT (TFA D series) |
Standard heavy-duty |
300 kg |
400 – 600 mm |
83 kg |
| DA (TFA-R series) |
Low-headroom |
350 kg |
420 – 700 mm |
5.7 kg |
| DAF (TFA-TR series) |
Low-headroom (TR) |
350 kg |
420 – 700 mm |
9.2 kg |
CE Marked, UKCA Compliant & LOLER Ready
The Camlok DBT, DA and DAF drum grabs are CE marked, UKCA compliant, and supplied with manufacturer's certification. Fully compatible with LOLER 1998 and PUWER 1998 when used within rated capacity.
Suitable Applications
Lifting drums of varying diameters in chemical processing, food and beverage, paint and ink manufacturing, recycling operations, and warehouse handling. The standard DBT is suited to general overhead lifts with full headroom. The DA and DAF low-headroom variants are designed for indoor use under low gantries or where vertical clearance above the drum is limited.
How to Use Safely
- Inspect the grab before each use. Check the body, adjustable jaw mechanism, locking pins, and lifting eye for damage, wear or corrosion. Do not use if defects are found.
- Adjust the jaw opening to match the drum diameter, securing the adjustment in place with the locking pins or thumbscrews as fitted.
- Position the grab around the drum body so the jaws engage the cylindrical surface evenly on both sides. Confirm symmetrical contact before applying load.
- Attach a suitably rated lifting chain or sling to the grab's lifting eye via a shackle.
- Apply load progressively. Test stability at low lift height before proceeding to full lift.
- Do not exceed the rated WLL (300 kg DBT, 350 kg DA/DAF). Do not use on slippery or contaminated drum surfaces that could cause slip during lift.
- After landing, fully relieve load and disengage the jaws before removing the grab.
Inspection and Maintenance
A visual inspection is required before every use. A thorough examination by a qualified engineer is required at least every 6 months in regular use, in accordance with LOLER 1998. Records of examination must be kept. Refer to the manufacturer's manual for detailed inspection and maintenance instructions, derating factors for use, and replacement schedules for any wearing components.
Warranty & Support
Supplied with manufacturer's certification, identification, and operating instructions. WOLFF Onsite offers post-sales support including spares, certified inspection, and replacement. Contact our team for advice on selection, sizing, and application-specific configurations.
Downloads & Resources
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How do I choose between DBT, DA, and DAF?
Choose the DBT (300 kg, 83 kg unit weight) for general heavy-duty industrial drum handling with full headroom and a 400–600 mm drum range. Choose the DA (350 kg, 5.7 kg unit weight) for low-headroom situations with a wider 420–700 mm drum range. Choose the DAF (350 kg, 9.2 kg unit weight) for low-headroom with additional handling features.
Q: What drum diameters do these grabs fit?
The DBT fits drums 400–600 mm in diameter. The DA and DAF fit drums 420–700 mm in diameter, covering standard 200-litre drums (about 580 mm) through to larger 250-litre and 300-litre drums.
Q: Can I use these on drums without intact rims?
Yes — the DBT/DA/DAF engage the drum body via adjustable jaws, not the rim. They are suitable for drums where the chime is damaged or absent, provided the body itself is sound and the surface is not contaminated or slippery.
Q: How often should drum grabs be inspected?
A visual inspection is required before every use. A thorough examination by a qualified engineer is required at least every 6 months for grabs in regular use, in accordance with LOLER 1998. Records of examination must be kept.
