The Camlok DC and DCV drum clamps are mechanical attachments for lifting standard 200-litre steel drums and similar barrels by crane or forklift attachment. The DC500 (TFRK series, 500 kg WLL) is the standard horizontal clamp design — lightweight at 1.5 kg — while the DCV500 (TFK series, 500 kg WLL) is the vertical lift variant for upright drum lifting and stacking, heavier at 7.3 kg with a more robust grip mechanism. Both engage the drum's top rim for secure attachment.
Key Features
- Two design variants — DC500 standard horizontal drum clamp at 1.5 kg unit weight, or DCV500 vertical lift clamp at 7.3 kg for more demanding applications.
- 500 kg WLL — rated for standard 200-litre steel drums and similar barrels.
- Engages drum top rim — positive engagement with the chime/rim of the drum for secure attachment without piercing or marking the drum body.
- Forged steel construction — for repeated industrial use.
- Lightweight DC500 — at just 1.5 kg, ideal for one-person handling and frequent attachment cycles.
Technical Specifications
| Model |
Type |
WLL |
Unit Weight |
| DC500 (TFRK series) |
Standard |
500 kg |
1.5 kg |
| DCV500 (TFK series) |
Vertical Lift |
500 kg |
7.3 kg |
CE Marked, UKCA Compliant & LOLER Ready
The Camlok DC and DCV drum clamps 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 and positioning steel drums in chemical, oil, paint, food, and manufacturing industries. Drum decanting operations, drum stacking and palletising, drum loading onto trailers and rail cars, and drum repositioning in warehouses and processing plants. Use the DC500 for general drum handling; the DCV500 for vertical lifts and where additional holding force is needed.
How to Use Safely
- Inspect the clamp before each use. Check the body, jaws, hinge mechanism, and lifting eye for damage, wear or corrosion. Do not use if defects are found.
- Verify the drum: confirm it is a standard 200-litre steel drum (or compatible barrel) in sound condition with an intact rim, weighing no more than 500 kg gross including contents.
- For the DC500: engage the clamp onto the drum's top rim, ensuring full positive engagement before applying any load.
- For the DCV500: position the clamp around the drum body in the vertical orientation as designed, confirming the gripping mechanism engages correctly with the drum.
- Attach a suitably rated lifting chain or sling to the clamp'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 500 kg WLL. Do not use on damaged, dented, or corroded drums where the rim integrity is compromised.
- After landing, fully relieve load and remove the clamp from the drum.
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.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What's the difference between DC500 and DCV500?
The DC500 (TFRK series) is the standard drum clamp at 1.5 kg — lightweight, fast to attach, and ideal for general drum handling at 500 kg WLL. The DCV500 (TFK series) is the vertical-lift variant at 7.3 kg — heavier and more robust, designed for vertical lifts of upright drums where additional grip security is required. Both are rated 500 kg WLL.
Q: What drum sizes do these clamps fit?
The DC500 and DCV500 are designed for standard 200-litre (55 US gallon) steel drums and compatible open-top barrels. Always verify rim profile compatibility before use.
Q: Can I use these on plastic or fibreboard drums?
No. The DC and DCV drum clamps require a steel rim/chime for secure mechanical engagement. Plastic or fibreboard drums do not provide adequate grip.
Q: How often should drum clamps 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 clamps in regular use, in accordance with LOLER 1998. Records of examination must be kept.
