A Brief Overview of Various Types of Lifting Slings

Lifting equipment is a common sight In the heart of every industrial operation. This includes heavy duty machinery as well as powerful precision tools and instruments. All this machinery is incredibly capable of handling heavy loads and various kinds of materials with stability and precision. These industrial giants, while forming the backbone of progress, pose a significant challenge – safe and efficient lifting. But the most common and important type of lifting equipment is lifting slings.

These workhorses are specialised straps or loops crafted from robust materials like metal, synthetic fibers, or a combination of both. They act as the crucial link between the load and the lifting equipment, ensuring a secure and controlled transfer of heavy objects. Unlike hooks that can damage delicate surfaces or ropes prone to snapping, slings offer a broader, more secure hold, distributing the weight evenly and preventing slippage.

While it is true that lifting slings offer an alternative to other types of lifting attachments such as hooks, magnets, beams and forklifts, lifting slings by and of themselves are available in various types and each type serves a unique purpose in the world of material handling and industrial lifting. In case you’re in the market for one and are confused about which one to buy, read on for a handy explainer on how each type of lifting sling differs from the other and pick what’s best for your business needs.

1. Chain Slings are the Most Common Type of Lifting Sling

Among the most popular types of lifting slings are chain lifting slings. This is because they’re a universal lifting solution that can handle all types of heavy-duty lifting operations as long as you’re using them with the right type of lifting equipment.

What are Chain Lifting Slings Used For?

• Renowned for their incredible strength and durability, chain slings are the go-to choice for heavy lifting operations. Their lifting sling belts can handle colossal loads exceeding 100 tonnes, making them ideal for lifting massive steel beams, prefabricated concrete slabs, or even locomotives.
• Their high resistance to abrasion and extreme temperatures allows them to thrive in harsh environments like steel mills or foundries.
• The multi-legged configurations of chain slings, achieved through the use of shackles and connectors, offer exceptional versatility in lifting odd-shaped objects or securing uneven loads.

Lifting Chain Slings Aren’t Without Their Limitations, Of Course

• Chain slings, due to their rigid nature, can damage delicate surfaces if not used with proper padding.
• Regular inspections are crucial to identify wear and tear in the links, which can pose a safety risk if left unchecked.
• The weight of the sling itself can be substantial, making it less manoeuvrable compared to lighter options.

2. Wire Rope Slings are perfect for Balanced Everyday Operations

While these largely serve as an alternative to chain slings, they differ in some ways and are capable of handling operations that require more adaptability.

Here’s Why Wire Rope Slings Excel in Certain Scenarios

• Constructed from high-tensile steel cables, wire rope slings offer a balance between strength and flexibility. They can handle impressive loads, making them suitable for lifting machinery, pipes, or large tanks.
• Their ability to conform slightly to the load's shape allows for a more secure grip on uneven surfaces.
• Wire rope slings are resistant to high temperatures, making them well-suited for tasks near furnaces or welding operations.

As With Chain Slings, They Have Their Limitations Too

• Similar to chain slings, wire rope slings can damage delicate surfaces if not used with protective measures.
• Sharp edges on the load can cause abrasions on the cable, compromising its strength. Regular inspections are essential to ensure sling integrity.
• Kinking of the wire rope can significantly reduce its load-bearing capacity and must be avoided.

3. Web Slings are Flexible and Maneuverable

In case your business handles operations that require improved maneuverability and move at a faster pace, you’ll want to consider web slings.

Web Slings are Useful for Handling Materials with Delicate Surfaces

• Web slings, crafted from synthetic fibers like polyester or nylon, are lightweight champions in the lifting sling arena. Their flexibility allows for easy manoeuvring around loads and tight spaces.
• They are gentler on delicate surfaces compared to metal slings, making them ideal for lifting polished parts, machinery, or finished products.
• Colour-coded webbing helps with easy identification of weight capacities, ensuring safe operation.

The Catch Being They Can’t Handle Heavy-Duty Loads Like Other Lifting Slings

• Web slings have a lower weight capacity compared to chain or wire rope slings. They are typically suited for lighter to medium-weight loads.
• Synthetic fibres are susceptible to degradation from exposure to UV rays, chemicals, or extreme temperatures. Careful selection of material and adherence to weight limitations are crucial.
• Web slings can be susceptible to cuts or snags, so inspecting them for wear and tear is vital before each use.

4. Round Slings Stand Out and are a Unique Type

Round Slings are Much Easier to Handle

• Round slings are a unique variation of web slings, featuring a continuous loop of synthetic fibres. This loop construction distributes the load evenly around the circumference, minimising pressure points and offering excellent stability.
• Their flexibility allows for lifting oddly shaped objects or securing uneven loads.
• Round slings are lightweight and comfortable to handle, making them a popular choice for frequent lifting tasks.

They’re Prone to Damage and Can’t Handle Heavier Loads

• Similar to web slings, round slings have a lower weight capacity compared to metal options.
• They are susceptible to damage from cuts, snags, or exposure to harsh chemicals and UV rays. Careful storage and inspection practices are essential.

Invest in The RUD India Bonus

If you’re looking for lifting slings, you might want to consider RUD India, one of the best manufacturers of lifting and material handling equipment. What stands out about them beyond just the superior quality and reliability is that they offer a comprehensive range of high-quality slings designed to meet the diverse needs of your industry. They are renowned for their commitment to exceptional quality and utilise superior materials and cutting-edge manufacturing techniques to ensure the durability and longevity of their products. Furthermore, they also offer customisable solutions tailored to meet their clients’ specific business needs. These adjustable chain lifting slings can be specified to handle the unique materials and loads that your business deals with on an everyday basis and RUD India’s expert consultancy will help you get the perfect product for your business needs.

Lifting slings are the invisible heroes of the industrial world, ensuring the safe and controlled movement of colossal objects. From the immense strength of chain slings to the gentle touch of web slings, each type offers unique advantages suited to specific lifting needs. Understanding the strengths and limitations of each sling type empowers you to choose the right tool for the job, ensuring the safety and efficiency of your lifting operations. Remember, selecting the proper sling is not just about lifting your load – it's about