What Are Chain Slings? And What Are Their Advantages Over Wire Ropes And Webbing Slings?

Chain slings are a type of lifting sling that is commonly used in various industries for lifting and moving heavy loads. These slings are made of steel chains and are known for their durability, strength, and resistance to abrasion, cutting, and impact.

Chain slings consist of a series of chain links, each connected to the other using different types of fittings, such as master links, clevis hooks, or grab hooks. These fittings allow the chain slings to be used in a variety of lifting applications and configurations, such as single-leg, double-leg, or multiple-leg slings.

Chain slings are often preferred over other types of slings, such as wire rope or synthetic webbing slings, because of their ability to withstand harsh environments and heavy loads. They are commonly used in construction, manufacturing, and shipping industries to lift and move heavy equipment, machinery, and materials.

Grades of Chain Slings

Chain slings are available in different grades of chain, with each grade having different working load limits and strength characteristics. The most common grades of chain used in chain slings are Grade 80 and Grade 100 with Grade 100 being the strongest and most durable.

Kito’s chain slings (chain & fittings) are grade 100. There is no compromise in the build quality, ensuring that the load is as safe as ever!

The Grade 100 series of lifting chains VIS 200 comes with a breaking load of 1000 N/mm2.

Grade 100 Chain Sling Solutions

Grade 100 offers the following range of solutions:

• Series D, E for 1-2 legs master link assembly
• Series DL, DE for 3-4 legs master link assembly
• Series DG1, DG2 DG4 for master link assembly with integrated shortening hook for 1, 2, and 3-4 legs
• Series DCR1, DCR2, and DCR4 for master link assembly with integrated chain coupling rings for 1, 2, and 3-4 legs
• Series SH for safety sling hooks
• Series SK for self-locking hooks
• Series GS for shortening hooks
• Series FHE for foundry hooks
• Series CR for couplings rings, and series WLK for connecting links
• Series CM for master link assembly for 2-4 legs

Advantages of Chain Slings Over Wire Ropes and Webbing Slings

There are several advantages of chain slings over wire ropes and webbing slings, including:

Flexibility

One of the benefits of using chain slings is their flexibility. They can be used in a variety of configurations, including single-leg, double-leg, triple-leg, and quadruple-leg slings, depending on the specific lifting requirements.

Additionally, chain slings can be easily adjusted to fit the load being lifted, providing greater versatility than other types of slings.

Durability

Chain slings are more durable than wire ropes and webbing slings, making them ideal for use in harsh environments where the slings may be subjected to abrasion, impact, or chemical exposure.

Strength

Chain slings have a higher working load limit compared to wire ropes and webbing slings of the same size, making them suitable for lifting heavier loads.

Versatile Configurations

Chain slings are flexible and can be used in a variety of lifting configurations, including single-leg, double-leg, triple-leg, and quadruple-leg slings, depending on the specific lifting requirements.

Longevity

Chain slings have a longer lifespan compared to wire ropes and webbing slings, reducing the need for frequent replacements and minimising downtime.

Safety

Chain slings are more resistant to damage and wear, reducing the risk of sling failure and increasing safety in the workplace.

How to Use Chain Slings Safely

To use chain slings safely, it is essential to follow the manufacturer’s instructions and guidelines.

Some general safety tips to keep in mind when using chain slings include:

Inspect Before Every Use

Inspect the chain slings before each use to ensure they are in good condition, with no signs of wear, damage, or deformation.

Select the Correct Sling

Choose the appropriate sling type and configuration for the load being lifted, and ensure that the working load limit of the chain sling is not exceeded.

Use the Correct Fittings

Use the correct fittings, such as master links, clevis hooks, or grab hooks, to connect the chain links and avoid twisting or kinking of the sling.

Position the Sling Correctly

Position the sling correctly around the load, ensuring that the chain links are not in contact with any sharp edges or corners that could cause damage to the sling.

Use Appropriate Lifting Equipment

Use proper lifting techniques and equipment, such as spreader bars, shackles, or lifting beams, to ensure that the load is balanced and stable during lifting.

Important Chain Sling Safety Considerations

When using chain slings, it is important to follow proper safety procedures to prevent accidents and injuries.

Avoid Twisting or Knotting

One important safety consideration is ensuring that the chain is not twisted or knotted, as this can weaken the sling and reduce its lifting capacity.

Inspect for Wear and Damage

It is also important to inspect chain slings regularly for signs of wear, such as bent or cracked links, and to replace them if they are damaged or worn.

Maintain Proper Load Balance

Another important safety consideration when using chain slings is proper load balancing. Uneven loading can cause the sling to become unstable and increase the risk of accidents.

Load balancing can be achieved by using a spreader bar or by adjusting the position of the lifting points on the load being lifted.

Conclusion

Chain slings are a popular and reliable option for lifting and moving heavy loads in various industries. Their durability, strength, and flexibility make them a preferred choice for many lifting applications.

They offer numerous advantages over wire ropes and webbing slings, including higher working load limits, increased resistance to abrasion and cutting, and longer lifespans. Additionally, they are more versatile and can be used in a wider range of applications.

However, following proper safety procedures when using chain slings to prevent accidents and injuries is important. If you are in the market for lifting slings, be sure to consider Kito chain slings as a top option for your needs.