What are the Different Types of Slings?

When it comes to overhead lifting of heavy loads, choosing the right type of sling is critical for both ease of use and safety. Slings are extensively used in safe lifting and moving of a variety of loads including pipes, building material, or even boxcars.

Which is the right type of sling that you must choose? Primarily, there are three types of slings – web slings, wire rope slings, and chain slings.

Let us discuss each of these three types of slings in more detail.

1. Web sling

For most general lifting applications (for instance, warehouse facilities), web slings are more than adequate thanks to its lightweight and flexibility. Web slings are also easy to use and can be fitted under any load.

Primarily, you will find web slings made of two materials – nylon and polyester. While nylon has better shock absorption, polyester provides better load control. Nylon slings are mostly used in applications with oil, alkaline, and grease, but are not suitable for acids and bleaches. Polyester slings can be used with common acids and bleaches, but not with concentrated acids.

Advantages of web sling: Lightweight, economical, flexible, easy to use, water and rustproof.

Disadvantages of web sling: Unsuitable for heavy loads and high temperatures, breakdown due to exposure to UV radiation, short product life.

2. Wire rope sling

As the name suggests, wire rope slings are made of steel wire strands braided into a rope. As compared to other slings, wire rope slings have the least cost for each ton of load. Along with resistance to abrasion and high temperatures, nearly 400-degree Fahrenheit, these slings are better suited for heavier loads and rugged facilities like construction sites.

However, because of their heavier weight, they are harder to use than web slings and can cause minor injuries. Wire rope slings are also prone to damage from kinking, abrasion, and crushing. As a result, they need to be inspected regularly for any damages.

Advantages of web sling: Medium weight, economic, high temperatures, abrasion, and UV resistant.

Disadvantages of web sling: Inflexible, can cause minor injuries, prone to damage.

3. Chain sling

Among the three types of slings, chain slings are the most suited for industrial applications and heavy load lifting. As a result, chain slings are extensively used in steel production plants and environments operating at high temperatures (up to 400-degree Fahrenheit). Chain slings are designed for continuous use, all thanks to their durable strength and long life. They are also more suited to be used in facilities with harsh conditions like foundries and heavy machine factories.

Advantages of web sling: Strength, durability, heavy loads, long life.

Disadvantages of web sling: Heavy, higher purchase cost, difficult to handle.

KITO Chain sling

Built through an advanced manufacturing process, KITO chain slings can be used for a variety of industrial lifting applications. KITO offers Grade 100 series of chain slings that can operate at a standard working load of 250 N/mm2 and temperatures ranging from -29 to over 209 degrees centigrade.

What benefits do Grade 100 chain slings have over Grade 80 chain slings? Several benefits, including the following:

  • 25% increase in load capacity.
  • Higher price to performance ratio.
  • Smaller in diameter resulting in a 30-40% weight reduction.
  • Higher hardness and wear resistance.

Do you have any query or want a custom quote for your lifting requirements? Contact us today with your requirements.

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