Explaining The Types and Functions of The Chain Sling

Is there a lifting project coming up in your manufacturing industry? Are you unsure which sling type you must use for this purpose? Maybe you aren’t getting the best result from the sling you are already using. Then, this post is a must-read for you.  

Choosing the correct lifting sling is of utmost importance for lifting heavy objects. You need to lift heavier loads successfully; hence, using equipment like a chain sling is preferable. This type of sling is popular at various construction and industrial sites. They are temperature resistant, flexible, and robust to handle lifting jobs efficiently in any condition. 

Moreover, when using this type of sling, take the necessary safety precautions and always follow them in any lifting scenario. Different types of chain slings are available, such as multi-leg, single-leg, and double-leg slings, and each has a different function. So, be precocious when using the right type to meet your requirements. On that note, the different chain slings and their function are briefly discussed for your better understanding.  

Types of Chain Slings 

Chain slings are metal components. They are durable, with high working or heavy load limits similar to wire ropes. These slings are usually heavy and also come in huge sizes. This chain sling requires lubrication during use, and you should follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for lubrication and care. Unlike synthetic slings, even if this chain sustains any damage, it can still lift loads safely. But you must refer to the ASME B30.9 standards for more information on handling the different chain slings. 

In contrast to wire ropes, chain slings are incredibly flexible and can quickly manage corners. However, it does not imply that one may disregard the lobe’s junction while using chain slings to hoist the weight. Rounding off the tight corners might harm the change, just like the wire rope. Therefore, before you run the lifting process, consider the lift design and the trajectory. 

In the case of chain slings, lack of training, improper use, and improper care can damage the sling. Therefore, you must have proper training before operating this chain sling to prevent property damage and personal injury.  

1. Single leg slings 

The single-leg chain sling supports the lift using just one leg, as the name implies. One must comprehend the utilization of even weight distribution when using this specific form of the sling. Any single-leg chain sling with links that accommodate master hooks, sling hooks, grab hooks, and foundry hooks are acceptable. 

This kind of chain sling allows for virtually any basket design. But if you often utilize grade-80 chains, you may get links with diameters as large as 22 mm. Also, you can make the links almost 32 mm thicker using grade 100 chain slings. Most of these chain slings can support up to 32000 kg of weight. 

 2. Double leg 

Two distinct chain links are present with the double-leg chain sling. You can choose a master sling for the double-leg chain sling with a foundry hook, grab hook, or sling hook. Most double-leg chain slings have two infinite baskets that you may adjust in various ways. The double-leg chain sling has a weight capacity of over 45 tons and is available in 80 or 100 grades. 

 3. Multiple leg slings 

Utilize multi-leg slings for an additional lifting capacity for heavier objects and properly set it up to operate securely and properly. This sling style comprises three or more identical slings, and it is difficult to understand the chain sling’s capacity when using three or four-chain slings. 

Nevertheless, the riggers need to be mindful of the chain slings’ rating because of the number of legs utilized and the correct angle to use the load. Note that alloy chain slings with triple or quadruple legs should have the same carrying capacity. This chain is a stiff substance with no flexibility. To ensure the setup is proper, thorough testing is necessary. One must do so as the sling legs randomly spin when one lifts and transports the weight.  

Functions of Chain Slings 

One can employ regular or repetitive usage of chain slings to hoist hefty and oversized loads. They are solid and durable because of their flexible nature, which allows them to endure impact, very high or low temperatures, and exposure to chemicals and UV radiation. 

In high-temperature applications and for lifting big weights, chain slings are favorable. They may be suitable for use in 

• steel mills,  
• foundries,  

• heavy machine shops, and  
• Any other setting where repeated lifts or harsh circumstances would damage or ruin a wire rope sling, synthetic nylon, or polyester sling due to their strength and longevity  

A chain sling is repairable, and you can test it for load and rectify it after fixing the damages. 

Chain slings made of materials other than alloy steel may be helpful in various situations. These applications occur in corrosive or hot conditions, and stainless steel or another exotic material chain is frequently helpful in these unusual applications. If a non-alloy chain is used for hoisting, the user should keep a record of the rationale for doing so and abide by all applicable chain sling requirements. This includes sling inspection and identification. 

The consumers and handlers of this operation may feel secure knowing that a chain sling won’t melt, break, or become weak under these conditions. Chain slings resist abrasion, which is essential as they won’t undergo heat-related damage. When using your chain sling, always read the manufacturer’s instructions to ensure you adhere to best practices and suggestions. 

In conclusion 

Consider a variety of criteria when selecting a lifting sling to ensure safety, dependability, and continuous performance. But most importantly, it relies on the manufacturer’s advice. The riggers and the lifting method influence sling type selection for maximum loads. In some situations, one sling will work better than the other kinds. 

Only a small percentage of pre-lift factors depend on one’s sling choice. Preparing a thorough and accurate lifting strategy for each exercise you perform is essential. It’ll be excellent if you also think about the most effective and secure approach to transport your cargo, starting with the choice of the sling.