The Ultimate Guide to Choosing the Right Chain Slings for Your Industry

Industrial facilities utilize various lifting equipment and tools to transport objects and materials from one place to another. Large-scale facilities like construction sites, shipyards and ports, and refineries and oil rigs tend to utilize chain slings. Chain slings are heavy-duty lifting equipment that securely moves heavy objects and containers. These slings consist of a series of chains linked together at a central point with a hook or clamp at the end. In some cases, they also use magnets as the attachment point.

Why use chain slings?

The main advantage of chain slings over regular forms of lifting equipment is that they are durable and resistant to rust and abrasion. Additionally, they are capable of lifting and moving heavier loads than regular sling-based equipment like wire rope and webbing. Chain slings come with an internal compass and feature Working Load Limits (WLLs) ranging between 4,700 to 6,100 kilograms. They’re an excellent choice for everyday tasks in industrial settings.

What are the different types of chain slings?

Chain slings are a diverse range of lifting equipment and can be identified across three different categories. Buyers can often choose custom chain sling configurations based on their preferences and lifting requirements. Types of chain slings can be identified according to the following categories.

• By strength grade - Industrial chain slings can be specced as per two different grades of strength. Grade 70 slings are everyday workhorses that are commonly found in most industrial facilities, whereas grade 80 slings are heavy-duty slings meant for more intense applications. For example, a 10mm grade 70 sling can lift up to 4,700 kilograms whereas the same 10mm grade 80 sling is capable of lifting up to 6,100 kilograms.

• By sling types - Chain slings can also be specced as per types of sling they’re specced with. These usually include one-leg slings, two-leg slings and multi-leg slings. One-leg slings are typically used to transport simple and light loads like logs and pipes. Two-leg slings are a more stable application and can lift objects like heavy machinery and containers. Multi-leg slings are used for lifting objects that require precision and delicate handling, like glass panels.

• By Material - Chain sling specifications can also be categorized by material. Alloy steel-based chain slings are conventionally used across industries and are considered the default type. These are durable, long-lasting, and capable of handling most applications. They are, however, prone to rust and lose their durability over time. On the other hand, Galvanized chain slings are used in applications where rusting is likely to take place, thanks to their corrosion resistance and capability to withstand rust-inducing substances.

• By attachment - Chain slings come with different types of attachments depending on their utility. These include hooks, clamps, swivels, and magnets.

Which chain sling specification should you choose?

Considering the different types of chain sling options in the market and their various purposes, it can be confusing to select one for your requirements. There’s no need to overthink it. Just consider three factors. Your budget, load requirements, and the kind of environment in which you’ll be operating the sling. It’s going to be easier to make an informed decision now that you know what each specification is meant for.