General Use of Different Types of Slings

Chain Slings- Alloy chain slings combine superior strength, ease of handling and durability. The combination of heavy loads, elevated working temperatures and severe lift conditions usually dictate that an alloy chain sling be used. Typical chain sling applications are found in steel mills, foundries, and heavy machining operations requiring repetitive lifts.

Wire Rope Slings- The most common and lowest cost per ton of lift of all slings. Used in the construction industry and other industries where heavy loads and rugged conditions exist.

Mesh Slings: Wire and Chain - These slings excel in lifting objects that are hot or have sharp edges, such as

bar stock or plate steel. Mesh slings greatly enhance load balancing due to their wide load bearing surface. Machine shops and steel warehouses typically have good applications for mesh slings.

Synthetic Slings- Both Web slings and Round slings are used where loads must be protected from damage. The lift weight and flexibility of synthetic slings reduce fatigue and strain on riggers. Round slings, with their color coded capacities, and ease of use and inspection, are rapidly gaining in popularity.

Daily Inspection

Each day before using, the sling, all fastenings and attachments shall be inspected for damage or defects by a competent person designated by the employer. Additional inspections shall be performed prior to each use where severe conditions warrant. Damaged or defective slings shall be immediately removed from service.

Periodic Inspection

OSHA specifies that alloy steel chain slings shall have a thorough periodic inspection by a competent person at least once every 12 months. We recommend that all slings have a thorough inspection by a competent person at least once every 12 months. These inspections must be recorded and maintained for each individual sling.

In some instances, it is possible to repair slings, proof test and return them to service. Damaged components and sections of chain or wire mesh can be replaced. Hooks, links and other components that are in good condition can be salvaged from a damaged web or round sling, rewebbed, proof tested by us and returned to service.

Repair

We strongly advise that damaged slings be repaired only by the manufacturer.

PHYSICAL FACTORS

Physical Factors Affecting Strength of Slings

Our care in the use and handling will prolong sling life significantly. The following physical factors should be considered when using any of the slings in this catalog:

1. Cutting of synthetic slings, Nicking or Gouging of steel slings. Probably the number one cause of sling failure. Usually caused by a sharp or small diameter load edge against the sling. It can be prevented with proper padding.

2. Improper Loading - Shock Loading, unbalanced loading, over loading and inadequate consideration for the effect of angle factors can adversely affect safety. Make sure the load weight is within the rated capacity of the sling(s) being used for both type of hitch and angle of lift. See “Effect of Angle of Lift” diagrams on the next page.

3. Temperature - Avoid loads and environments where temperatures exceed the limits of the slings being used. All slings can be damaged by excessive heat.

4. Punctures & Abrasions seriously degrade sling strength. Rough load surfaces and dragging slings on the ground will damage all slings, steel or synthetic. Use proper padding between slings and rough loads. Never drag slings on ground or concrete floors.

5. Foreign Matter - Material such as metal chips and heavy grit can damage web slings, both internally and externally. Both synthetic and steel slings can be damaged by weld spatter and heat from a welding torch. Avoid contact with foreign matter whenever possible.

6. Ultraviolet Light - Nylon and polyester web slings are adversely affected by prolonged exposure to UV light, i.e. sunlight or arc welding. Inspect and remove if slings appear bleached and stiff. Store slings properly when not in use (see No. 7 below).

7. Improper Storage - Even in storage, synthetic and steel slings can degrade if not kept in clean, dry conditions. We recommend hanging slings on a rack. Web sling should be stored in a dark area to avoid unnecessary sunlight/UV degradation.

8. Chemical Environment - Slings exposed to certain chemicals or the vapors of these chemicals can lose some or all of their strength. When using slings in a chemical environment, contact us to assure sling compatibility.

EFFECT OF ANGLE OF LIFT ON A SLING’S RATED CAPACITY

Using slings at an angle can become deadly if that angle is not taken into consideration when selecting the sling to be used. The tension on each leg of the sling is increased as the angle of lift, from horizontal, decreases. It is most desirable for a sling to have a larger angle of lift, approaching 90°. Lifts with angles of less than 30° from horizontal are not recommended. If you can measure the angle of lift or the length and height of the sling as rigged, you can determine the properly rated sling for your lift.

Important Considerations- Before buying or using a sling, know as much as possible about the lift you will make to minimize the potential dangers to personnel, product and property. All of the following items should be evaluated.

Environment

• Crane and load foundation

• Obstruction in path of travel and for head height

• Power lines or other hazards

• Chemical conditions

• Temperature of load and surroundings

• Location of people - away from danger

• Inspect all equipment

Load

• Weight of load

• Center of gravity (drain liquids)

• Pick-up point integrity, including location and number

• Edges that may damage sling

• Abrasive areas that may damage sling

• Secure or remove loose parts

• Structural integrity (bending and crushing)

Rigging

• Type of sling required, including number of legs

• Type of hitch required

• Balance of load and stability, including flexing

• Prevention of load shift and movement against sling

• Angle of lift

• Tag line and spotter requirements

• Plan and procedures

When lifting and turning a load using a choker hitch, it is not uncommon to bend the body of the sling around the choker loop and have a severe bend occur around the body at this point.

For choker angles of 120° or less, the choker rating must be reduced by multiplying the corresponding factor times the slings standard choker rating.

The eye dimension for each type and size of sling are shown in the capacity tables of this catalog. If your pin or hook is large, request an oversized eye for the sling.